I have been awarded the Kreativ Blogger award by Elle, Jackie, Lesalicious, and Andrea. Thanks so much for taking the time to even read my blog! While I believe most of the bloggers I visit have been given the well-deserved nomination, I still must give my thanks and appreciation to Robin for all of her creative work. I have been a long-time reader of her blog, when I was knitting my monthly projects. At first, I was upset that there were so many fabric related topics on her blog…..Hah! I kept reading and even became encouraged to try it myself. She always responds to my comments and offers tips on how to succeed. I still love my knitting, even though it has taken a move to the back burner lately, but have been able to open up a whole new area of creativity through this new outlet. Thanks Robin!
I have 3 FOs to show for today, my second version of the New Look 6856 top and a coordinated NL6856 skirt from extra fabric left over from making the top! I also made a modified version of – Butterick 5260 (version C). 
Pattern Review - New Look 6856 Skirt & Top:
Pattern Description: Misses' knit tops, skirts, and pants. I made view A, the boat-neck knit top and view C, the shorter skirt.
Pattern Sizing: X-small to Large. I made size Medium for both.
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? I didn’t have to look at them. Everything was self explanatory.
What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? This is a great pattern to add to your wardrobe, fast! I just made my first version this week and I already have used it again – adding the knit skirt to my list.
Fabric Used: A polyester/Lycra jersey fabric from Fabric.com called “Jersey Knit Argyle Dots Blue”. I paid $7.00 for the 1.5 yards, which was enough for top and skirt.
Pattern Alterations or any design changes you made: None.
Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? This is my second time making the top & I will definitely try the longer version of the skirt again, too.
Conclusion: A great wardrobe builder that is comfortable and versatile.
Pattern Review – Butterick 5260 Skirt:
Pattern Description: A-line, pullover tunics A, C or above mid-knee dress B is fitted through the bust, has neckline variations (with or without collar) and below elbow or long sleeves.
Pattern Sizing: Lg, X-LG, XXL. I made the large.
Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? A little different, due to my modifications.
Were the instructions easy to follow? Very easy.
What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? A great staple for any wardrobe.
Fabric Used: > A polyester/Lycra jersey fabric from Fabric.com called “Jersey Knit Pandora Plum”. I paid $9.00 for the 1.5 yards.
Pattern Alterations or any design changes you made: I shortened the length, made sleeves to the elbows, and tried my first go at using FOE at the neckline instead of the turtleneck.
Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I will probably make this one again somewhere down the line, without any modifications.
Conclusion: A nice addition to my knit collection.
I was a busy sewing bee this weekend. I finished hemming and adding elastic to my New Look 6856 pants, made the NL6856 top, cut fabric for two more NL6856 pieces, scrapped an ugly FO (Butterick 4290), and nearly finished a top using a modified version of Butterick 5260. Sewing class starts again this week and I will either go to both Monday and Tuesday courses or pick just one. It's a 18 week course so 4 hours each class is a big time commit already, 8-hours is probably pushing it for me.
Pattern Review
Pattern Description: Misses' knit tops, skirts, and pants. I made view A, the boat-neck knit top.
Pattern Sizing: X-small to Large. I made the medium.
Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? For the most part. I think the pattern image looked a bit more boat neck, but they didn't have a picture with an actual person.
Were the instructions easy to follow? Very easy. A no brainer pattern that you don't have to do much more than glance at the directions.
What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? This is a great addition to any wardrobe.
Fabric Used: A poly/Lycra jersey called "Paintball Art Jersey - Burgundy/Amethyst/Black" from Gorgeous Fabrics.
Pattern Alterations or any design changes you made: None.
Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I highly recommend this pattern. I made the pants for my Sister over Christmas, which she loves. I have already cut fabric for another top (View A, again) and the shorter skirt. I plan on sewing it tonight.
Conclusion: A nice evening project with good results. I was able to use the coverstitch feature on my new Babylock Evolve serger. I was able to convert from overlock to coverstitch in a flash. 
The rest of my Bijou yarn came in so I'll be casting on for that project this week, as well. Busy busy little bee.....
I have been sewing quite a bit. I made matching leggings for me and my roomie. Hers are opaque black using a cotton Lycra, while mine is a shiny, 100% Lycra fabric. Pics of hers to come early next month after she returns from her work trip to Seattle.
I made another B5247 Tunic last night. Since the pattern was already cut out, it was a super easy project to complete while watching TV. with the cats and a glass of wine (sergers don’t count as heavy machinery, do they?.... lol. I wanted to wear my leggings to work and needed a tunic type top to make it appropriate enough for casual Friday. I previously made a top using argyle knit fabric from Joann’s. I cut it parallel to the selvage, which resulted in the diamonds going the wrong direction. Joann’s in San Diego were sold out of the material by-the-time I returned the next day. When I was back in Vermont, shopping for material, I was able to find the same material still available at that Joann’s. Nice! This tunic is the perfect match for this fabric. Comfy, cozy, and now that the diamonds are going the right way, it is elongating my body for a slimmer look. Can’t complain about that with the extra pounds I have packed on recently….but now I’m on another tangent. I’m buying a gym member ship to 24-hour Fitness. Costco has an amazing deal for $300, 2 years at any location. Can’t beat it! The sale is through the 31st of this month if anyone else is interested.
Back off the tangent – I made this tunic with a tighter, turtleneck style neck instead of the cowl that I had in the first B5247. I like how it makes it a different style from my previous version. I also serged off more from the sides, for a more fitted look.
I also started a dress last night using Butterick 5188. I think I will add sleeves to it, for more year-around use. Since I didn’t find a review on Pattern Review, I’m going at this one on my own. So far so good though. It’s a really simple pattern and not much for guess work, anyway. I’ll finish that up this weekend.
For weekend sewing plans I am going to finish up the pants I made using New Look 6856. I just have to add the waistband elastic and then shorten them for a cropped pants style, instead. I actually completed the top in the pattern, but picked material that was not stretchy enough. To add insult to injury, my FOE neckline looked a bit wonky. This is in the frog pond (do sewers have this like the knitters?) and I will start again with the right material.
I want to get more coordinates done, since I’ve been putting them all to great use for work-wear. After that, I will look at attempting my first lined jacket. Since the new semester starts for sewing class this Monday, I will have that be my “take-to-class” project.
Before I give my leggings review - I’ll mention a knitterly subject. I have re-ordered my yarn for the Bijoux project and have already received part of the yarn. I am going to try to designate at least 2 nights to my knitting projects from here on out – so that I’ll have FOs of both. I almost bought 2 project kits from Knit Picks but decided to wait until I finish my hat and Bijoux before jumping the gun.
Pattern Review - McCall 5394
Pattern Description: Slim Fit Leggings in Two Lengths. Close fitting, below waist, proportionate-sized leggings have elastic waist and two length variations.
Pattern Sizing: Y(X-Small, Small, Medium), ZZ(Large, X-Large, XX-Large). We are both a smaller-sized large using the Big-4, but made the Medium for this pattern. The pattern runs a bit larger, so it’s a good idea to go down a size.
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? When it came time to make them, we couldn’t find them. Not even needed.
What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? There is only one piece needed for this pattern, which is great. There seems to be just a bit of extra room near the knees. Not enough to alter existing pair, but in the future, I’ll just go in a bit more with the serger at this area to get it tighter.
Fabric Used: 100% Lycra for mine and a cotton/Lycra blend for my roommate’s.
Pattern Alterations or any design changes you made: We both lengthened the tall pattern so the bottoms would be a bit slouchy. My roommate did a sway back adjustment to give a bit more room for the booty and avoid the fabric bunching.
Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? This is a great pattern that I’ll sew again using different colors and fabric. It’s a great addition to anyone’s wardrobe, even if it’s just going under a dress for extra warmth.
Conclusion: Quick and easy without compromising style. What could be better than that?
So Robin tipped me off on where to get the suggested yarn for part of Bijoux, which ended up being Kyarns in Vermont (where I’m originally from)…I’m not sure if it is because of the popularity of this new pattern, but even though I placed my order the same day Robin gave me the heads-up, there are out of stock in the garnet color. I told them I was willing to wait a month while it is on back-order, but they now have discovered it with be more than a month out in delivery. They have decided not to carry the yarn any longer due to constant delivery problems. I only need 2 skins of Classic Elite Silky Alpaca Lace Yarn in color 2432 (garnet). Anyone know another spot carrying this color?
In happier news, I have a new FO using a stash pattern – Butterick 5247.
Pattern Review:
Pattern Description: Semi-fitted, pullover tunics A, C or above mid-knee dresses B, D have cowl-like collar, short or long dolman sleeves and belt. Purchased top, pants and belt.
Pattern Sizing: BB(8-10-12-14). I made size 14 and then trimmed it down on the sides.
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? Very easy. I looked at them once, maybe twice and got rolling.
What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? The simplicity of the pattern is great, while it is still trendy and stylish. I think my fabric is a bit busy, but will be great for jazzing things up at work. I think the arms could be altered a bit – tapering the spot from the underarm area to above the elbow a bit more.
Fabric Used: “Before You Accuse Me... Slinky - Purples/Gold” from Gorgeous Fabrics. It’s a Acetate/Lycra Knit.
Pattern Alterations or any design changes you made: I used my serger for the entire pattern and just slimmed the sides a bit.
Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? Yes – I plan on trying this one again, with a shortened, shirt length instead. I will also try a knit, plain fabric.
Conclusion: A quickie pattern that can double for both work attire and going out. This will pair great with the McCall 5394 leggings as Erica from Erica B.’s – D.I.Y Style did with her gorgeous rendition of the pattern.
I am sooo excited! I have my serger class this afternoon. I started a top and bottom using New Look 6856. I just need to hem the pants & add the elastic to the waist and add the cover stitch for the top. I'm hoping I'll get great tips on doing this on the serger.
In knitting news - I read Robin's post about Marnie MacLean's new pattern Bijou at Twist Collective and had to immediately download it and buy the suggested yarn. I'm hoping this will put a spark in me for my knitting mojo. I love my sewing, but would like to keep up both!
Last night I brought home my new baby - the Baby Lock BLE8W Evolve Wave. I am ecstatic, despite slamming my toe in the door after my purchase (which made it to painful to use my foot on the foot pedal). Robin and Cass offered really good suggestions and after a bit more research I headed to the local Babylock-Janome-Pfaff-Juki-Singer-Consew supplier. After hands-on testing for over an hour, I was hooked on the Evolve Wave. I was able to convert it to a triple cover stitch and then a 4 thread overlock plus chain stitch in mere minutes. I was really debating the two separate machines, but really don’t have room in my place for all of the machines that there are between me and my roommate now.
I’m also happy about the free classes to learn specific techniques. Even though I did go through most of the functions, I’m happy about my 2-hour class on Thursday. I’ll get to take notes and answer questions that will inevitably come up after using it this week. Since I’ve already been using my Singer Serger daily, Paula from Central Sewing Centre is having my first class be the more advanced techniques and then the next class will be the basics class as a refresher.
I know that I’m blabbering away about this, but I am just thrilled about my purchase. There are so many whistles and bells, that I’m going to be in Serger Heaven for a while to come. Even though I won’t be needing the 8 thread capability it’s great to know I have it – just in case. The color-coded “Quick Reference Guide” cheat sheet is a God-send. I’ve always had trouble with knowing the correct width and length to choice for various stitch types. Now I don’t have to be confused – there are color pictures showing how both the right and wrong side of the fabric will look with the particular stitch and the proper settings to make it happen. With all of that said - this foot of mine will be going into an ice bucket after work so I can get to work on Sergé Senior this evening!
I have been getting so much use out of my Singer Serger (starter level) that I have decided to upgrade soon to a higher-end machine. I love my Bernina, but haven't heard too much about their sergers except for the confusing manual.
I'm thinking about the following choices:
- Babylock E8W
- Babylock Imagine
- Janome Compulock
- Viking 936
Here is a quick FO that I started during my sewing class yesterday evening and finished up at the house while watching HBO. My original intent was to have the gathered midriff, but I lazily ruched the sides only and forgot to gather the center. I still like how it turned out, especially the fabric choice (a find from Joann's a few months back), which is showing up blurry by pic but is simply different sized dots with a few lines of blocks (pic of fabric below). Since this is an iPhone pic, I'll try to update using my camera once I recharge it to show a better pic. Even though this is my second version of this dress (remember my San Diego "photo-shoot"?) Below is how I wore it to work today. My boss said that she really liked the material and color choice. The fact that it's a knit material that won't wrinkle is a big bonus for going to trade shows with her throughout the year. I know I'll be making a few more of these, so more to come.....
Tonight I'm planning on making a couple pairs of simple pull-on pants for work, in a little bit thicker material since San Diego is getting a bit chillier than usual (I know, a girl from the cold country on the East Coast finds San Diego cold....anywho). More FOs tomorrow (I hope).
HAPPY NEW YEAR! 2008 brought a lot of changes, from Obama to the recession, we were in for a roller coaster ride. Here's to a healthy, peaceful, and prosperous 2009.
So I have 2 more FOs that I haven't shown, which at this point will probably not happen, so I'll just show case my latest FOs. My roomie is recovering from pneumonia and liked my top (I wore it on New Year's day), so I made her one while we catch up on Lost episodes...we're two Season's behind and our DVR is filling up fast with the latest season!
Pattern Review:
Pattern Description: Tunic A has dropped open shoulders and angled shape lower edge, raw edge finish. Tunics B, C have semi-fitted, bust darts, angled shape lower edge. B: bias tape armholes and back neck edge, faced front neckline. C: bias tape neck and armholes, sash with narrow hem finish. Both FOs are Tunic A.
Pattern Sizing: Lg to X-lg. I made the large for both.
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. The pattern is so simple that the instructions aren't really needed. There are only three seams to sew and voila - a tunic top.
What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? The only part of this project that is less-enjoyable is the fabric cutting. The pattern is one large piece, so even with my monstrous sized cutting mat, I needed to add a second mat on the floor to cut it all out.
Fabric Used: For my project, I used fabric from Gorgeous Fabric called "Wild at Heart". I used about 1 1/4 yards of this poly/Lycra blend. For my roomie's tunic, I used stash fabric from Joann Fabrics. it's a Jersey Knit fabric. I'm not sure how much, except that I cut into the CENTER of her fabric instead of the edge. Sorry Brandilion!
Pattern Alterations or any design changes you made: Instead of leaving the sleeves partially open (slits), I sewed the sleeves closed.
Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I have made 2 now and think it's a nice quickie go-to pattern if you can get beyond the acrobatics of cutting out the fabric.
Conclusion: A really nice project to end out the year - and to start off the new one!
