tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-63220777156605385672024-03-05T08:41:02.422-07:00The Fitting LifeLizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00315189728534076380noreply@blogger.comBlogger50125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6322077715660538567.post-16895956226566665242016-06-05T16:39:00.000-06:002016-06-05T16:40:22.411-06:00The Shop Company is listening to usTwo years ago I inquired about and then purchased a dress form from <a href="http://theshopcompany.com/" target="_blank">The Shop Company</a>. I was delighted with the well informed response to my questions and quick delivery when I finally ordered.<br />
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Since that purchase I have been on The Shop Company's email list and receive occasional updates about new products. The two most recent I find very interesting. One about scissors and another about cutting mats.<br />
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<a href="http://theshopcompany.com/crafting-scissors.html" target="_blank">SCISSORS</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIhik5pRgSrqvH4ouKYTtctwfgaTx4ygRqQCHL8aYZjqbr_M_jRLNcF9KgxNGgHzrRfmKA0lpBPFzoibox-m1_lzFMo5LECvDLhDn8WModLVxIgSDwlqDrnHvgkhe67qe_kN1HSw3sNgHi/s1600/Screen+Shot+2016-06-05+at+4.09.03+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="515" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIhik5pRgSrqvH4ouKYTtctwfgaTx4ygRqQCHL8aYZjqbr_M_jRLNcF9KgxNGgHzrRfmKA0lpBPFzoibox-m1_lzFMo5LECvDLhDn8WModLVxIgSDwlqDrnHvgkhe67qe_kN1HSw3sNgHi/s640/Screen+Shot+2016-06-05+at+4.09.03+PM.png" width="640" /> </a></div>
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I just put aside my two much liked Ginghers and a Mundial because sharpening services are not readily available where I live. And I ordered a pair of true left handed Kai 8" shears to keep things going until I am near a sharpener. I would love to try the scissors from The Shop Company but first they will have to come out with a left hand version.</div>
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<a href="http://theshopcompany.com/cutting-mats-blades.html" target="_blank">CUTTING MATS</a> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5xWy1AgghS9BJ0Ppy0bbbUETy_qK7OOyfAnMzmanFoOZMbhREoiRLfhoIKSCAqxO0vfPL6N9Z_oP8fRooDP9yMywMco4fdDY26MJbeAdI80eHQ-LaqVC58C2zuMWp7AJ744ZLt03vrVe3/s1600/Screen+Shot+2016-06-05+at+4.14.58+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="490" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5xWy1AgghS9BJ0Ppy0bbbUETy_qK7OOyfAnMzmanFoOZMbhREoiRLfhoIKSCAqxO0vfPL6N9Z_oP8fRooDP9yMywMco4fdDY26MJbeAdI80eHQ-LaqVC58C2zuMWp7AJ744ZLt03vrVe3/s640/Screen+Shot+2016-06-05+at+4.14.58+PM.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Self-healing, non toxic, odor free, non slip mats? It is surely a cutting table dream come true. Someone heard all our wants in a mat.</div>
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To the people at The Shop Company - we like that you are listening! </div>
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<a href="http://theshopcompany.com/professional-female-dressform-w-collapsible-shoulders.html" target="_blank">MY DRESS FORM</a> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggaJoLNfsl2AH7U-Q_lnCLnjoAEcIWFNUfZEUWeeypITg8ZuDn1JwzJeT5lLshSAxJyFhdhj8Lk_FaEA7wiV10p_UCGxcjCgCzU0JqGFabbzxIHRCEH1zn8XKvfpvM6x3AWaZAWuOZI1sK/s1600/Screen+Shot+2016-06-05+at+4.27.30+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggaJoLNfsl2AH7U-Q_lnCLnjoAEcIWFNUfZEUWeeypITg8ZuDn1JwzJeT5lLshSAxJyFhdhj8Lk_FaEA7wiV10p_UCGxcjCgCzU0JqGFabbzxIHRCEH1zn8XKvfpvM6x3AWaZAWuOZI1sK/s320/Screen+Shot+2016-06-05+at+4.27.30+PM.png" width="112" /></a></div>
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The dress form deserves a good review on it's own, but for now here is a picture and link. It is a wonderful sewing room tool.</div>
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Happy sewing,</div>
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Liz</div>
Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00315189728534076380noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6322077715660538567.post-44392832674278647502015-10-26T09:26:00.000-06:002015-10-27T08:54:22.228-06:00A basic but stylish shirt pleaseA plan is taking shape in my sewing imagination, a wool shirt in a basic style, something that could be worn as a jacket over a tee shirt. Maybe I will start with a flannel shirt to test. So which pattern, where is a simple but stylish shirt pattern, one that is shirt-like but still feminine.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj96FrCezIhmqIkSXT-OwvO9aAMPDECG8pEek7z0b0BpIckLfIdPinp2iSUYJlTIOEBF-k16_z7uVnONNPDgL1xUW6uc5UcdbIEt2SA9txIMYIlJWgHUr5jYjttDsoxi9_OKwXItVute1NW/s1600/IMG_0044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj96FrCezIhmqIkSXT-OwvO9aAMPDECG8pEek7z0b0BpIckLfIdPinp2iSUYJlTIOEBF-k16_z7uVnONNPDgL1xUW6uc5UcdbIEt2SA9txIMYIlJWgHUr5jYjttDsoxi9_OKwXItVute1NW/s400/IMG_0044.JPG" width="325" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shirt by Theory</td></tr>
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An inspiration photo, I like the slim yet roomy shape and the small collar.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTQbFgjfZt8zX29wEdmorbw9Li5CFkIsxaiiQdIVXWr7sd5cqL6XBQZuhnfj8bktaBN03z6Xqe2_uvG_k8U9aiQi6B8OA7lzpC5sZaj6bSp1FTL-QQwOQlcpoEKDPCl_9bkTHwaWwLvPJk/s1600/141-149s2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTQbFgjfZt8zX29wEdmorbw9Li5CFkIsxaiiQdIVXWr7sd5cqL6XBQZuhnfj8bktaBN03z6Xqe2_uvG_k8U9aiQi6B8OA7lzpC5sZaj6bSp1FTL-QQwOQlcpoEKDPCl_9bkTHwaWwLvPJk/s1600/141-149s2.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shirt at next.co.uk</td></tr>
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The rounded collar in the plaid is nice. I also like that the buttons are in pairs.<br />
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Ottobre Design has a couple of choices but I would need to make small construction changes to the pattern to make a better shirt. Then, in a timely for me post, Lena at Iconic patterns <a href="http://iconicpatterns.com/2015/10/21/sewing-linen-shirts/" target="_blank">writes about sewing a shirt and offers a list of changes to make</a>. Thanks Lena! Now if only she would sell that pattern...Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00315189728534076380noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6322077715660538567.post-68350393187635425682015-10-04T16:04:00.001-06:002015-10-04T16:10:59.789-06:00Crowdfunding a new pattern, a good thing?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJdTc6iYTW9S-gEg3Ts7sUWB_-7XVJ1gPA4eEguh0ykurJROp3KM9XcBykOy5X9fb_wwt4zuWxBI7UWvmUtlPT-JUDiFGQnRnXYG5TXiSeKZOBg9YLeAU1eKn9RlgVPOo9kSLAYXCjW5W0/s320/next-pattern.jpg" width="262" /></div>
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<a href="http://iconicpatterns.com/shop/campaign-pattern-1105/" target="_blank"><i>Pattern #1105</i></a></div>
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Here is something new to me, <a href="http://iconicpatterns.com/" target="_blank">Iconic Patterns</a> is crowdfunding the next new possible pattern. If I am interested in having this pattern then I can pledge the amount an individual pattern will cost, or more if I like. If enough people pledge making the total reach the necessary minimum the pattern will be developed and produced. No money can be lost on pledges since no one is charged if the funding minimum is not reached. You can read Lena's <a href="http://iconicpatterns.com/2015/09/15/ready-for-a-change/" target="_blank">blog post</a> on the topic and there is more info on crowdfunding at the Iconic Patterns <a href="http://iconicpatterns.com/pages/faq/" target="_blank">faq page</a>. <br />
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I think I like this idea.<br />
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<li>The patternmaker, in this case Lena who makes amazing patterns imho if the Jess Jeans and the Sammy Cami are any indication, knows she/he will get paid for the work involved in getting a pattern to market.</li>
<li>I can support the patternmaker and end up with a pattern I really want.</li>
<li>The patternmaker will not spend fruitless time developing a pattern that not very many people are interested in buying.</li>
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The only downside? My own disappointment if pattern that I really want does not go to market.<br />
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I have already pledged my bit. I see perfect summer wear. Even if I just turned on the furnace for winter, I would love to have this pattern asap.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKkODv1Jbf85r_iZZ7DwEphI3AOnKbd5InkVQvk4lQ9TdfE1lIsTqNvcMXEHTWCIFepxPCssgRv2RpotxtCQZFzMvlOCkQbwG3lq_Dqc47lQHOtYvNA1JA1khjjgt4iBLKjeqSL2tVwBF-/s1600/1105-tech-510x600.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKkODv1Jbf85r_iZZ7DwEphI3AOnKbd5InkVQvk4lQ9TdfE1lIsTqNvcMXEHTWCIFepxPCssgRv2RpotxtCQZFzMvlOCkQbwG3lq_Dqc47lQHOtYvNA1JA1khjjgt4iBLKjeqSL2tVwBF-/s320/1105-tech-510x600.jpg" width="272" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://iconicpatterns.com/shop/campaign-pattern-1105/" target="_blank">Pattern page</a></div>
Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00315189728534076380noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6322077715660538567.post-91868646524536924762015-07-15T19:06:00.000-06:002015-07-15T19:06:39.834-06:00A whole year went by!It has been whole year since my last post! Life has been busy with things other than sewing. In the last few weeks I have been enjoying once again reading the sewing forums and some new to me interesting sewing related goodies. Two inspirational, and tempting, items are the videos produced by Susan Khalje and Angela Kane. <br />
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The <a href="http://susankhalje.com/classic-french-jacket-sign-up/" target="_blank">Classic French Jacket</a> is hugely tempting, even though I have no desire for a Chanel-esque jacket, so not my style. It's the construction and the process that draws me in. I would love to have some couch time watching and hearing about intricate sewing. For $195 one gets lots of video with erudite Susan gently teaching, some nicely presented written class information, and a Susan Khlaje french jacket pattern, although one has to pay shipping for the paper goods. (Couldn't that shipping have been included in the course price?) But $195 is quite a price, probably too much for what would amount to just entertainment for me. Although, wouldn't it be fun to use the techniques, quilting the fabrics etc. with a different style jacket, a hoodie perhaps?<br />
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Angela Kane has been in the internet sewing world for a while and is always expanding her offerings. Her videos are interesting and to the point, very pleasant to watch. I like how when there is something a little time consuming, like pinning a seam, the video switches to fast forward until that portion is done, then the instruction picks up again. There is a membership for access to all videos and patterns for 45 British pounds, at this time ca. 70 American dollars. I have only watched a few free ones. I'm intrigued by the <a href="https://angelakane.com/sewing_patterns/patterns/coat-sewing-pattern-692.php" target="_blank">Roll Collar Coat</a> which can be purchased as an individual pattern, but all those videos that a membership gets, how fun that would be.<br />
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I'm visiting my favorite sewing forums again. I have been a member of <a href="http://sewing.patternreview.com/" target="_blank">Pattern Review</a> for nearly 10 years. There is always something interesting going on there. I have lurked at <a href="http://artisanssquare.com/sg/index.php" target="_blank">Stitcher's Guild</a> for a number of years. The members at SG sew up some amazing things. It might be time to join there and actually say something.<br />
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My sewing machines are waiting patiently under a dust cover. My cutting table stands quietly with it's leaves folded down. My fabrics rest in bins in the attic. (It's not hot here so the fabrics are in good climate in case you were worried.) I'm starting to miss hearing the click and hiss of my gravity feed iron and the satisfying effect of it's heat and moisture to shape fabric. It might soon be time to open up the sewing world again.<br />
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<i>NOTE about blog comments. I have turned off comments to my blog. This doesn't mean that I don't want to hear you, the reader, it means I am so not good at keeping track of replies but mostly it means that there have been a number of spam comments that I wish to not have to deal with in the future. I am thinking of you, the reader of my humble blog, and I thank you for being here and for sharing this fabulous thing of sewing love with me.</i><br />
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Happiness,<br />
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Liz <br />
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<br />Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00315189728534076380noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6322077715660538567.post-17030079583877612692014-07-15T19:54:00.000-06:002014-07-21T16:56:35.126-06:00Scarf Neck Cardigan by Swoon Patterns<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy82GYuez0IPz7utUqq51was7DIYtWy69VvNFCdOlJ8Nl8i2yPWCPpkALjr-tqO4dyKH3P_iv5V5wV48_53HJ9VdwMtMhf8mChh3JyCKlfbxc1QAgDFDxDbcOkq0f1wyNvjStHTfZS7_9U/s1600/swoonfront.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy82GYuez0IPz7utUqq51was7DIYtWy69VvNFCdOlJ8Nl8i2yPWCPpkALjr-tqO4dyKH3P_iv5V5wV48_53HJ9VdwMtMhf8mChh3JyCKlfbxc1QAgDFDxDbcOkq0f1wyNvjStHTfZS7_9U/s1600/swoonfront.jpg" height="400" width="181" /></a></div>
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Love this cardigan! Some interesting styling at the hem and a sweet princess seam for shaping over the bust. So many of these slouchy comfy cardigans are a bit shapeless but this one is just right.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ8VTw2KaakxgCEDHFINtlj5A4ka9zjWrEgD0Qb9dFf9UA5XHIs7gr3v8myisOaoQ06zVtppvpxdyew6oyeC0Hc9AMqG1fqS9FoTE3OorH2Lv_orfLx5YFoH23CHu9URyK9BElUFrl0P5M/s1600/swoonback.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ8VTw2KaakxgCEDHFINtlj5A4ka9zjWrEgD0Qb9dFf9UA5XHIs7gr3v8myisOaoQ06zVtppvpxdyew6oyeC0Hc9AMqG1fqS9FoTE3OorH2Lv_orfLx5YFoH23CHu9URyK9BElUFrl0P5M/s1600/swoonback.jpg" height="400" width="183" /></a></div>
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The back is pretty plain but it works.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQBG-LujE1ygmPllMUtyZ9zhfkPjBkzMkuJUUT22Y0Hae5ljWRtx61ULk8AOG1iand6b9VeW6HHhNKHoMuhqAJbWhVsVjfCtR56jx4OGK33Ff6ksnem0AGx4SZ79nuoiI4Xj8quXZhxsj-/s1600/swoonfront2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQBG-LujE1ygmPllMUtyZ9zhfkPjBkzMkuJUUT22Y0Hae5ljWRtx61ULk8AOG1iand6b9VeW6HHhNKHoMuhqAJbWhVsVjfCtR56jx4OGK33Ff6ksnem0AGx4SZ79nuoiI4Xj8quXZhxsj-/s1600/swoonfront2.jpg" height="400" width="190" /></a></div>
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The fabric is a lighter weight cotton jersey which I wasn't sure what to do with. It felt too light weight with not stretch enough for a nice top and ended up sitting in my stash for a while. I think it works perfectly in this cardigan style. </div>
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The pattern was easy to sew and things fit together well. The instructions are sparse but should get the job done. The best part? It's a free pattern! Get a copy and get sewing! </div>
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<a href="http://swoonpatterns.com/shop/scarf-neck-cardigan/" target="_blank">Scarf Neck Cardigan by Swoon Patterns </a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8QVoXtxohUMvMr7Kbwh7XSyowoJKvlk5hSmGsTL9B-v_W9Wsi_94Cid1k02ScHvsmA9eJzuIusQO1s0i2ZPiZISpU5Gvr5zq2qKtrAEOodT36NGTO3uWhgfB6JKptoH51-uohn6NAjLiC/s1600/swoonpattern.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8QVoXtxohUMvMr7Kbwh7XSyowoJKvlk5hSmGsTL9B-v_W9Wsi_94Cid1k02ScHvsmA9eJzuIusQO1s0i2ZPiZISpU5Gvr5zq2qKtrAEOodT36NGTO3uWhgfB6JKptoH51-uohn6NAjLiC/s1600/swoonpattern.jpg" /></a></div>
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Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00315189728534076380noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6322077715660538567.post-24508393481254319282014-05-10T08:44:00.000-06:002014-05-10T08:47:43.686-06:00Hope for McVoguerick<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Once upon a time there were patterns that fulfilled the promise on the envelope. They came in one size per envelope, had seam allowances marked, and good instructions. The pattern draft was so good that when sewn up the garment could look like a high quality item. Often the instructions would teach by showing a clever technique or two for sewing and finishing your project. These patterns were available in almost every fabric shop in the country and there were lots independent and small chain fabric shops around. Even department stores had a fabric section complete with patterns.</div>
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Sounds like a fairy tale, doesn't it? And yet, that is how it was once upon a time in history. I was lucky to be there, to live that fairy tale, although at the time it all just seemed normal and expected. I carefully chose and bought this designer Vogue pattern. There were no huge % off sales then, it was full price and this one at $7 was expensive on my very small stay at home mom budget. I found a rayon challis print, floral on a black base, at the discount table and I sewed my designer dress. The instructions taught me the trick of self lining the sleeve instead of hemming, an easy way to finish a curved hem cap sleeve where the inside would be visible at times. I wore the dress with a glossy black shaped belt, something that was popular in the 80's, and I felt on top of the world. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6HqGnLM0RGeHmCTUy_G_iVaP5aGFy45nOgfnX6RH5h_gXPLc-lP5bjBs9FeVY8aXP1W6XIwSo2DIQh1F8ZqgJRYeuPmdicag9u_VSf7YXuJmSAoJytxUsh9gmuVZki_QroIdwKtbz8tkf/s1600/rl2947.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6HqGnLM0RGeHmCTUy_G_iVaP5aGFy45nOgfnX6RH5h_gXPLc-lP5bjBs9FeVY8aXP1W6XIwSo2DIQh1F8ZqgJRYeuPmdicag9u_VSf7YXuJmSAoJytxUsh9gmuVZki_QroIdwKtbz8tkf/s1600/rl2947.jpg" height="400" width="316" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A scan of my original pattern, I still have it.</td></tr>
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I have no desire to buy Vogue patterns any more. Or McCall's or Butterick. They are all one big blob anyway and they managed to absorb KwikSew which I also have no desire to buy anymore. Drafting errors, pathetic instructions, weird looking garments when sewn up, there are all kinds of depressing things to be found in the new patterns. </div>
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Some years ago while mulling over this deteriorating pattern group company the word "McVoguerick" popped into my mind and I laughed because it was so fitting. Recently I decided to look up when I first started using "McVoguerick" which was at Pattern Review and found it was in 2006. I had not seen that word used before. The impetus for this research came from something I recently read at the Communing With Fabric blog - that Frank Rizzo, the new President/CEO of The McCall Pattern Company is sometimes called "Mr. McVoguerick" by his fellow workers. I have to wonder, did I start the use of the word McVoguerick? Is it my fault that Mr. Rizzo now has that nickname? It really would be fun to take credit for thinking up McVoguerick...but I'm sure it was invented by many others as well. </div>
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The blog post titled <a href="http://communingwithfabric.blogspot.com/2014/03/my-meeting-with-vogue-patterns.html" target="_blank">My Meeting with Vogue Patterns by Communing With Fabric</a> is a fascinating read. It puts some hope back into the future of the McCall Pattern Company, aka McVoguerick. How I would love to once again spend blissful time paging through the books at the pattern counter knowing that the pattern I might choose would provide me with happy sewing time and a fabulous garment to wear.</div>
Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00315189728534076380noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6322077715660538567.post-5018495565773131882014-03-08T10:13:00.000-07:002014-03-08T10:13:44.728-07:00The new Iconic PatternsLena of The Sewing Space just launched her new pattern line site, <a href="http://iconicpatterns.com/" target="_blank">Iconic Patterns</a>. I'm blown away by how gorgeous and professional the site is! Just as professional and gorgeous as her patterns are. I have made the Jess jeans, wow, nice job on the draft Lena. I'm working on the Sammy Cami now, it's just right. Time for me to get a photo of these up. In the next few days, I promise!Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00315189728534076380noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6322077715660538567.post-86847876494922503162014-02-28T19:30:00.001-07:002014-03-02T19:39:04.916-07:00What You Love Tank by Mind, Body & Sew<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ4Joq4CN5dWMXEyAWnTKCYs8Jsi1zykTZQyIakH-DHArR7YUxQXF11gFqKtC68UCqZMksyczSVUSvJp9-hy6u6MsOZz9In9hCIbhEQkeYHBjYMTbXIEfGRIZjwcnz6INpIHUvp5T-MhwB/s1600/whatyoulovetank1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ4Joq4CN5dWMXEyAWnTKCYs8Jsi1zykTZQyIakH-DHArR7YUxQXF11gFqKtC68UCqZMksyczSVUSvJp9-hy6u6MsOZz9In9hCIbhEQkeYHBjYMTbXIEfGRIZjwcnz6INpIHUvp5T-MhwB/s1600/whatyoulovetank1.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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Love this tank! Perfection all around.</div>
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<li>Two pattern pieces</li>
<li>Easy to sew</li>
<li>Nice shapes in the neckline and racer back</li>
<li>Fits</li>
<li>Flattering</li>
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And it's a download pattern which means instant gratification. It's the <a href="http://www.mindbodyandsew.com/shop/whatyoulovetank" target="_blank">What You Love Tank</a> at Mind, Body & Sew.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJRAu2oQilzqNy8KE9QfdYbuYwV4QKdPG5XU07l3vbE4lQm568p5xkpFQmZRJYwbTvf5n6Q0z_FGhAiKfxaG6AMJz7E219xb-Lcapr_kt_XuUp5Wvv9pZJxbPtgybpMuN8nROk8TEDuUlt/s1600/whatyoulovetank2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJRAu2oQilzqNy8KE9QfdYbuYwV4QKdPG5XU07l3vbE4lQm568p5xkpFQmZRJYwbTvf5n6Q0z_FGhAiKfxaG6AMJz7E219xb-Lcapr_kt_XuUp5Wvv9pZJxbPtgybpMuN8nROk8TEDuUlt/s1600/whatyoulovetank2.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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The easy-to-sew is in part due to the neckline and armscye treatment. Instead of adding a binding the raw edges are simply turned under 1/2 inch. The edges are turned under once and topstitched with a zigzag or a coverstitch or they can be turned under twice for a narrower finish. Does this work, you might ask? Yes indeed, it works very well and it is a finish I have used often in my sewing life with great success. Usually the knits I do this with have some lycra content or are stable knits but it works well enough on lighter weight rayon knits or a non lycra cotton jersey like the one in the photo.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV-1TWWgD2aVCCp-GYUqSuFi4bHz7dCvY7U5Q7pGo64zu9MiDUI6yUShKf9a9PIQ1-lXwwJMqhyGgU1I7pTmucsJfGNvNILniVrNHeEhuvgADy9BDPBrMnFe5re_Kiao14CldpSGwdJ-8J/s1600/whatyoulovetank3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV-1TWWgD2aVCCp-GYUqSuFi4bHz7dCvY7U5Q7pGo64zu9MiDUI6yUShKf9a9PIQ1-lXwwJMqhyGgU1I7pTmucsJfGNvNILniVrNHeEhuvgADy9BDPBrMnFe5re_Kiao14CldpSGwdJ-8J/s1600/whatyoulovetank3.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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The bottom hem is sewn along the stretch of the fabric can a little tricky with a knit that doesn't have the best recovery. The edge can stretch out quite a bit so I used the "crowding" technique where a finger is placed right behind the presser foot while sewing which makes the fabric bunch up between the finger and the presser foot. When there is a pile of fabric bunched up, release that fabric and put the finger back for some more crowding. I also had to do some steaming with my iron and reshaping of the hem.</div>
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Who is that headless sewing room helper? There is a hint in my previous post. More about her later. Today it's all about the What You Love Tank.</div>
Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00315189728534076380noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6322077715660538567.post-33343783498284279132013-12-14T15:23:00.000-07:002013-12-14T15:23:04.340-07:00Wish list<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqeUanrY4bTG9YPC3NRBUfHO6SQlhK4QOIlr10LdzAf2CzJWSeTLX3U-ztKVdZgWM3XTwKIIyZIG6EEabN3cqDAY2rvWtvp1NLKhHM7doIZV-AckW9gUvsjSnju3MlFxI_k6XtYvPUPuKi/s1600/theshopcompany.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqeUanrY4bTG9YPC3NRBUfHO6SQlhK4QOIlr10LdzAf2CzJWSeTLX3U-ztKVdZgWM3XTwKIIyZIG6EEabN3cqDAY2rvWtvp1NLKhHM7doIZV-AckW9gUvsjSnju3MlFxI_k6XtYvPUPuKi/s320/theshopcompany.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
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It is still called a list if there is only one item? This is it, my whole wishlist for my birthday in January, a good dressform. My sewing room hasn't had a dressform for almost three years now and I miss this useful tool. I featured "Matilda" in previous posts, quite a while ago, and while she did a good job for an old rickety lady I always wished for something more sturdy. So, when I moved across the country Matilda did not go with me, instead she found a new home where I hope she continues to be loved and appreciated, and my plan was to buy a new form. Now it's time!<br />
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I have been eyeing <a href="http://theshopcompany.com/professional-female-dressform-w-collapsible-shoulders.html" target="_blank">this dressform at The Shop Company</a> for some months now. The price is good, much more tolerable than another popular brand. The fabric is not real linen but some faux linen canvas that is probably a cotton poly blend. This form is not fully pinnable meaning you can't stick straight in like a pincushion but pins can go in at an angle to a certain degree. Well, Matilda wasn't pinnable at all really since I could sort of push pins into the surface at an angle with difficulty and have them mostly stay. Partially pinnable will be a huge improvement.<br />
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I'm looking forward to having a standard sized dressform in current numbers so I can try out a pattern drafted to standard size and see how the garment works on a body. Knowing how a pattern fits a standard size helps me see if that pattern actually makes a decent garment and what alteration I need to do to have it fit me. The key there is knowing how my body differs from the standard size and proportions.<br />
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Since I started oogling the above pictured form at The Shop Company they have added an <a href="http://theshopcompany.com/fully-pinnable-professional-female-dressform-w-removable-magnetic-shoulders.html" target="_blank">even more affordable model with removable magnetic shoulders</a>. What a good idea! I think I still want the collapsible shoulder one though. <br />
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Lots to do between now and January and not much of it sewing related. I'm planning to spend more time in my sewing room after the holidays. It's cold here in January and February, good time to sew. And snowshoe. :-)<br />
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<br />Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00315189728534076380noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6322077715660538567.post-10468851364588479392013-07-12T08:21:00.000-06:002013-07-18T14:32:08.379-06:00And more for less<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpOEEOzMZDN3Mm6Ng1AbMOrktjYXyoBB_wrCAc0nwu_dqopUN4oezOz78PZ_selfWPCH_Dkt8FhWF3YsEy-JW4FZINq8bDqMsnq6Lj54SwWj0U4b2WaZ1SGvgGjaCC5k07YCKK9oJTRPqy/s1600/mtlawn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpOEEOzMZDN3Mm6Ng1AbMOrktjYXyoBB_wrCAc0nwu_dqopUN4oezOz78PZ_selfWPCH_Dkt8FhWF3YsEy-JW4FZINq8bDqMsnq6Lj54SwWj0U4b2WaZ1SGvgGjaCC5k07YCKK9oJTRPqy/s320/mtlawn.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.marcytilton.com/item.php?pid=10831&cid=903" target="_blank">Filigree Paisley Cotton Lawn</a> for $16 plus shipping at Marcy Tilton. Or,</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidTDRLdzx4hD8OMre-ZE9LZ1tSq4wPVLovmys1g5WEavhfU7yLpjJHUrxEeZVPpyCCfGS_loqHtC52i-vBeLYUcCoOJlj0ODiwMnx8TKmUxRU1wb4SbCfbEf3uenpzvkYarXetxBxzgeO0/s1600/flawn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidTDRLdzx4hD8OMre-ZE9LZ1tSq4wPVLovmys1g5WEavhfU7yLpjJHUrxEeZVPpyCCfGS_loqHtC52i-vBeLYUcCoOJlj0ODiwMnx8TKmUxRU1wb4SbCfbEf3uenpzvkYarXetxBxzgeO0/s320/flawn.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.fabric.com/just-arrived-just-arrived-fashion-fabric-kimono-cotton-voile-fabric-kimono-voile-paisley-dream-purple.aspx?cm_vc=756b1813-cbc1-43b3-84bd-29889bf8fb7b" target="_blank">Kimono Voile Paisley Dream Purple</a> at Fabric.com for $8.98, add a coupon of at least 15% off and free shipping possible.</div>
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This spring I got a yard of the fabric.com "voile" (lawn is a better description) and made a bias top. I love the colors and the fabric is nice but it is not $16 fabric by any means. I really like supporting the small independent fabric vendors but what's a budget conscious gal supposed to do when this kind of thing keeps popping up?</div>
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Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00315189728534076380noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6322077715660538567.post-14655952024503943332013-07-04T08:19:00.001-06:002013-07-04T08:20:25.560-06:00Knit top using New Look 6108<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwy4rdhK3C9PMaWQfdc8YSbpwsQPr2MvInEbQFRfNu9A6F55-uTV2vBuTYMiV2ucTA_025FWjzwbVerHxEiVc0rJHOJTh2sfYPomSBoQPM6VjIIIkhUylWXTYqv2Mto-FQaBbYEY-Ae1nb/s687/rayondrape.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwy4rdhK3C9PMaWQfdc8YSbpwsQPr2MvInEbQFRfNu9A6F55-uTV2vBuTYMiV2ucTA_025FWjzwbVerHxEiVc0rJHOJTh2sfYPomSBoQPM6VjIIIkhUylWXTYqv2Mto-FQaBbYEY-Ae1nb/s320/rayondrape.jpg" width="232" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.simplicity.com/p-7399-misses-just-4-knits-separates.aspx" target="_blank">New Look 6108</a>, view C, in a soft rayon knit from <a href="http://www.gorgeousfabrics.com/shop/index.php" target="_blank">Gorgeous Fabrics</a> sewn for Ms E, a twenty something friend. </div>
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I made a quick muslin of this in a drapey black matte jersey and thought it looked strange as in how can this possibly look good on a body. I was actually kind of stunned when Ms E tried on the muslin and it was perfect. And flattering. I hemmed the muslin and she likes it and wears it as well. </div>
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No changes were made to the pattern for fit. The front has a facing or half lining that covers the bust area which eliminates the need for finishing the front neckline and arm holes. The back is supposed to have some kind of binding but I simply folded over the edges and coverstitched. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0W3zKsb1IWVUWUebc7pvsUSpg_7yS4Gk22D9KPYtT8MCjQACoSw-KI9RsjXnItjjntpPhO_S9CqrR2pgWevxEWmN6-7Odu4l9GzDt1wckqIOQLN3TrkH_ADqA_wRCkZD0ThXrI4MsZidU/s381/6108.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0W3zKsb1IWVUWUebc7pvsUSpg_7yS4Gk22D9KPYtT8MCjQACoSw-KI9RsjXnItjjntpPhO_S9CqrR2pgWevxEWmN6-7Odu4l9GzDt1wckqIOQLN3TrkH_ADqA_wRCkZD0ThXrI4MsZidU/s320/6108.jpg" width="222" /></a></div>
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It is such a pleasure when a pattern works. The pieces fit together and the resulting garment is wearable and flattering. I might have to make more of these tops. One for DD in an ITY jersey sounds good.</div>
Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00315189728534076380noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6322077715660538567.post-69395136718054486952013-03-13T14:33:00.000-06:002013-07-04T08:21:51.361-06:00A skirt from My Image Magazine<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOcF40QBT3EsckRrjYpmV1SOnmBg8mpaKB26SU8EwWFL63unIMWR1MV-pACjzZhrvI0M5uL6dc3R3cLV0KuFY-AV02pcmnyZMgUbAj4xCtyEYg-1sfXj0MTR7xuQppZtPLVkbq89Qt_3UH/s1600/plumskirt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOcF40QBT3EsckRrjYpmV1SOnmBg8mpaKB26SU8EwWFL63unIMWR1MV-pACjzZhrvI0M5uL6dc3R3cLV0KuFY-AV02pcmnyZMgUbAj4xCtyEYg-1sfXj0MTR7xuQppZtPLVkbq89Qt_3UH/s320/plumskirt.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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A new skirt from the dutch pattern magazine <a href="http://www.imagewearpatterns.com/index.php/en/my-image" target="_blank">My Image</a>. I sewed M1103 from the <a href="http://www.imagewearpatterns.com/index.php/en/patterns-mi/mi11s" target="_blank">Spring/Summer 2011 issue</a>. It was high time I quit sewing the same old same old skirt, the <a href="http://thefittinglife.blogspot.com/2010/06/skirt-iteration-v2704.html" target="_blank">paneled Vogue pattern skirt</a> that took quite a bit of time to sew and 2 1/4 yards 58" fabric minimum. This My Image skirt took much less time to sew and uses just barely over 1 yard of 58" fabric. Of course I did my usual and used a knit with a designed for woven pattern.</div>
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I like to start with a size or two smaller than my size when I use a woven pattern and sew it in a knit. The My Image size chart says I would use a size 40 and since this particular pattern only goes down to a size 38 that is what I used to make a muslin in a woven. The muslin fit, maybe a little too body skimming but it did skim, not hug. Hmm, no smaller size to use and with all those panels I knew I did not have the patience to try to size it down. I decided to sew it anyway in the 38, I really liked the effect of the panels. The result is maybe a bit loose but it still fits well enough to make me happy. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4ZR_zyXE7To_Ulgde2j2zWLSDJf2J1A0-fpcnaDJanS0BiCLAlOXeYrsp-herqyZ7juDyey8Ur4CHrislvH4N7jDvioZi7ah0w7ZH1lgDt_py14JdPbkyVnwrnrQPyZuPtht3F3hbdDSF/s1600/skirtsmyimage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4ZR_zyXE7To_Ulgde2j2zWLSDJf2J1A0-fpcnaDJanS0BiCLAlOXeYrsp-herqyZ7juDyey8Ur4CHrislvH4N7jDvioZi7ah0w7ZH1lgDt_py14JdPbkyVnwrnrQPyZuPtht3F3hbdDSF/s320/skirtsmyimage.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The back hem of the skirt is longer than the front. This I had to think about for a while since I wasn't sure I liked that look. The phrase "mullet skirt" came to mind. It is a couple of inches above the knee in the front and just grazes the bottom of the knee area at the back. It grew on me this high low concept and I kept the feature instead of evening out the hem.</div>
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I found it interesting that there is very little shaping happening in the panel seams around the hips. This made the panels pretty easy to sew together.</div>
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A few changes were made to the pattern to make this better in a knit. </div>
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<li>The center back seam which would accommodate a zipper was eliminated. It was a ruler straight seam with no shaping. </li>
<li>The back darts were eliminated and side seams above the side panels were shaved off and shaped a bit to take care of the then missing darts' shaping. </li>
<li>I added two or so inches to the top so I could use an elastic waist finish in place of the waistband of the pattern.</li>
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The hem is about 1/2 inch folded under, pressed, and coverstitched which worked well to handle the curved edge.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPzuCHISPmHOEVEX388j02aaCGFA1MXcOLiLfzU0maBBYTBuWfaOWC-rmmNalU62nZBe4r2o_6lXXwUahKM5Cxi1r4i1KTNBejazyjbaRGHXgUaDDGQ0eSl6souuo2-2XSHK_iojzln8Zk/s1600/VF125-36.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPzuCHISPmHOEVEX388j02aaCGFA1MXcOLiLfzU0maBBYTBuWfaOWC-rmmNalU62nZBe4r2o_6lXXwUahKM5Cxi1r4i1KTNBejazyjbaRGHXgUaDDGQ0eSl6souuo2-2XSHK_iojzln8Zk/s320/VF125-36.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The fabric is a <a href="http://www.voguefabricsstore.com/VF125-36-Macaw-Eggplant-Purple-Bamboo-Terry-Knit-Fabric.html" target="_blank">bamboo/cotton/lycra french terry</a> from Vogue Fabrics. It is a lovely soft french terry with just enough body to make a non clingy skirt.</div>
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My Image has a nice website where you can <a href="http://www.imagewearpatterns.com/index.php/en/browse-mi/mi13s" target="_blank">browse the magazines</a>. I ordered the current issue and a pack of three back issues from the site which arrived from the Netherlands within two weeks. I like the styles, they are on the casual side and remind me of my favorite danish Onion patterns.</div>
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I leave you with a screenshot of the magazine page (<a href="http://www.imagewearpatterns.com/index.php/en/browse-mi/mi11s" target="_blank">full magazine here</a>) zoomed in on the skirt where you can see the nice side panel. The shape of this panel really helps the high low hemline work. The impression from the side view is a natural hem slope instead of a "who forgot to hem the back of the skirt" thing. </div>
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<br />Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00315189728534076380noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6322077715660538567.post-47419089156456986182013-01-27T13:48:00.001-07:002013-01-27T13:58:29.826-07:00Altering my way back to start<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkyEGLxIkJLNc6SiXpufUUyQf2amXFpLrDRttYJTDKCSZp06QrkSUVqLIzPImBCe6Pi94A3op-5nT78X3LMTHDvMtTpzN3BJEH-SHHzJWo73wwuaYAgviEQmwf7C1zfZt0SyX-_VaP34PS/s1600/jersey01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkyEGLxIkJLNc6SiXpufUUyQf2amXFpLrDRttYJTDKCSZp06QrkSUVqLIzPImBCe6Pi94A3op-5nT78X3LMTHDvMtTpzN3BJEH-SHHzJWo73wwuaYAgviEQmwf7C1zfZt0SyX-_VaP34PS/s320/jersey01.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
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A cotton jersey top. It's a comfortable fit scoop neck tee with bell sleeves. <br />
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Now this could have been an easy and quick project but, no, I had to go about it in a most time consuming way. The story starts with KwikSew 3295 (now apparently out of print). Last year I tried the top in a woven making the bust area smaller and experimenting with a center back seam for shaping. After a few muslins I decided a woven top was not for me, at least not in the cotton lawn I was considering, so the project got put aside in spite of the several days I had invested in the process.<br />
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Then one day months later I thought of the sleeves and how I liked the bell shape. I wondered how those would work in a knit. I pulled out the KwikSew pattern I had already altered to fit and decided to make it work for a knit. I removed the darts and took out a bit of width in the center front and center back. There were a few fiddly alterations at the shoulder and front armscye that I don't remember the details of but they took more time. <br />
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I traced a fresh pattern of what I had created through my alterations and stepped back to look. Omigosh, it looked so familiar, what was it? I thought for a while and then remembered one of my favorite patterns ever that I have made nearly a dozen times, Onion 5025 (also appears to be no longer available). <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRgCmh3MJo556nYHsxUv-rPHHonw1Tl0jEQ-Zy4zZP7LkSRM-06ByBVLmOIMmSq-bW89Chi7bTwnFySZS-LkJU7fF-1qBmjQBWXfz3wgwNPACq2dMQ3QaXymZXFU2I_57AQDlRdCYJ0DmP/s1600/onion5025.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRgCmh3MJo556nYHsxUv-rPHHonw1Tl0jEQ-Zy4zZP7LkSRM-06ByBVLmOIMmSq-bW89Chi7bTwnFySZS-LkJU7fF-1qBmjQBWXfz3wgwNPACq2dMQ3QaXymZXFU2I_57AQDlRdCYJ0DmP/s320/onion5025.jpg" width="227" /></a></div>
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Placing my overly altered KwikSew pattern on top of the Onion pattern I saw they were nearly identical! All that time I has spent altering and muslining the KwikSew, more days in the sewing room that I care to admit, and I just end up right where I should have started, sigh. Moral of the story: productive time in the sewing room does not include reinventing the wheel over and over.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj536VIjzPtzg-caHIL5f6yyGdEwm300yz96XBvSiRP2kZh_AAhEQAa1tmKqCY0pD01s_-_hjkjnmi543qv67P9-Fuhj4y2OU6FqAuXOJuDKlspO-I6Vq3pMiY_c4h6wmA108Q5i1SzAv5Z/s1600/jersey02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj536VIjzPtzg-caHIL5f6yyGdEwm300yz96XBvSiRP2kZh_AAhEQAa1tmKqCY0pD01s_-_hjkjnmi543qv67P9-Fuhj4y2OU6FqAuXOJuDKlspO-I6Vq3pMiY_c4h6wmA108Q5i1SzAv5Z/s320/jersey02.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The top got sewn in spite of my foolish activities with the pattern and I like the result. I wanted to have a somewhat less than plain binding at the neckline and sleeve hem so I placed a folded strip of the fabric on the inside under the raw edge and sewed with the cover stitch machine from the front. This was completed back in the fall and the funny thing is after all that I went through to create the top I have yet to wear it.</div>
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The fabric, unlike the patterns, is still available. Hart's Fabrics <a href="http://www.hartsfabric.com/organic-fabric-cotton-jersey-knit55348.html" target="_blank">Plum Jersey</a> Soft and light but far from sheer, a lovely tee shirt fabric.</div>
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Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00315189728534076380noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6322077715660538567.post-12412457756121312642012-12-19T19:35:00.003-07:002012-12-19T19:51:49.399-07:00Pantone declares spring colors<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It's not even 2013 yet, winter is still settling in, even the shortest day of the year (here in the northern hemisphere, that is) has not arrived yet and some bossy thing called Pantone has declared what colors we are to wear and live in this coming spring. There is even a "color of the year", like a Miss America chosen and crowned, that reigns over the season's palette. </div>
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The very wonderful thing about a group of colors chosen by good colorists is the inspiration it can provide. The limitations are the freedom. Parameters can spur creativity where an endless abyss of options can be paralyzing. Ten colors, only ten, but how much fun those can be. Here they are.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmI7qVl9t7v0AvTNltiXCCyNBRYo4spFfIB0mJhvb5A1ZCjZRJNMvjUHe8ueSDtdhxEa4ILvWANVfdaKjCIKAsysNb5Vav1AuUS99sORK3s17RPbcpRKLFPyG9Z5bega963qhCu7iYgsE4/s1600/epantone.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="display: inline !important; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="140" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmI7qVl9t7v0AvTNltiXCCyNBRYo4spFfIB0mJhvb5A1ZCjZRJNMvjUHe8ueSDtdhxEa4ILvWANVfdaKjCIKAsysNb5Vav1AuUS99sORK3s17RPbcpRKLFPyG9Z5bega963qhCu7iYgsE4/s1600/epantone.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Emerald, the tiara wearing winner of color of the year. Dusk blue, grayed jade, tender shoots, lemon zest, african violet, linen, monaco blue, poppy red, and nectarine. Not very exciting as a line of colored dots on paper but quite amazing as the palette for a pleasant room, or perhaps a wardrobe. And just what do these colors look like in practice? In a room, like this, from House Beautiful's December/January 2013 issue. If you look closely you will see all of the ten colors.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyUMi9b6OZXq68ZVX9-4wmxH5y5mVJc0U4Bg7Cipu4wpGENsfsnZtT5zGO1zUOZE0ZdT6lHNawFBCqhBp6O_84fW74KtGmZnR0ycw19RFKxl1sodEqfLTGmkRS7RlBLEOZrLNEmt-TvvTy/s1600/eroom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyUMi9b6OZXq68ZVX9-4wmxH5y5mVJc0U4Bg7Cipu4wpGENsfsnZtT5zGO1zUOZE0ZdT6lHNawFBCqhBp6O_84fW74KtGmZnR0ycw19RFKxl1sodEqfLTGmkRS7RlBLEOZrLNEmt-TvvTy/s400/eroom.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Grayed jade in the barrel type side table and the lamp in the distance gives the monaco blue and poppy red. Nice proportions of the amounts of color.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMjKo4OsHetNYrN_txAl30Pd283z9vRpkVP7BaCSFI-yjAS5Cx0o3CGfO75Z2V8hAo2bwrR2FZnSZ_-nGdQNjPupBG0wbu_P7DN31zB8YMZKS-moenw0G_fs7vCIQg4J8R7pzSb_xFqwTr/s1600/eside.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMjKo4OsHetNYrN_txAl30Pd283z9vRpkVP7BaCSFI-yjAS5Cx0o3CGfO75Z2V8hAo2bwrR2FZnSZ_-nGdQNjPupBG0wbu_P7DN31zB8YMZKS-moenw0G_fs7vCIQg4J8R7pzSb_xFqwTr/s320/eside.jpg" width="278" /></a></div>
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The neutral of linen calms everything and sets it off at the same time.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGxufYAMF8LKwd_M8OJz2UncmGWeaTlQALor514XiU8jir1fZooJQ6hgSndfxtADzg8Vjz7qZAS1AeiF_pY0KkgQQoVf-2g7MMDvqxzkW9_kBo976EnGajBenuYi1gMb880z8_P2XAO_y9/s1600/evase.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGxufYAMF8LKwd_M8OJz2UncmGWeaTlQALor514XiU8jir1fZooJQ6hgSndfxtADzg8Vjz7qZAS1AeiF_pY0KkgQQoVf-2g7MMDvqxzkW9_kBo976EnGajBenuYi1gMb880z8_P2XAO_y9/s320/evase.jpg" width="278" /></a></div>
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Emerald, the color of the year, in modest spots that make the room lovely and interesting instead of a place consumed by trend. How pretty these are together!</div>
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In my wardrobe:</div>
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Unwittingly I followed Pantone's rulings when I recently bought the "Shimmer Me" jacket by Columbia for my winter wardrobe. In emerald, it was the color that was to my eyes the least of the evils and was offered at the best of the discounts, things that rule my shopping much more than current fashion. I know the Pantone police will not be patrolling the wilderness where I will be wearing this jacket but the ideas that are forming in my head about colors to wear with this emerald are invigorating. A dusky blue top, a bit of poppy red somewhere, just a tiny bit like the painting above, perhaps with african violet grounding it all. Yes, winter might be more than just keeping warm this way! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw9b0Ezf5VYOheZGU_C2GmrZcguJUsxBWgdu89UBbvzrCdmw7eBBu2Ddzrf36jrXqOooj5XI1A99ErhaeJpS0uL8i1EkuQDBUJlIlpaGHJ_E2XAwMs8NGdyydBv2R4wR78Xfj3cPyeMS1Y/s1600/ejacket.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw9b0Ezf5VYOheZGU_C2GmrZcguJUsxBWgdu89UBbvzrCdmw7eBBu2Ddzrf36jrXqOooj5XI1A99ErhaeJpS0uL8i1EkuQDBUJlIlpaGHJ_E2XAwMs8NGdyydBv2R4wR78Xfj3cPyeMS1Y/s1600/ejacket.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Wishing you creative thoughts and happy sewing!</div>
Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00315189728534076380noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6322077715660538567.post-83007221399718069192012-12-18T10:27:00.003-07:002012-12-18T10:31:41.779-07:00The look for lessI like <a href="http://www.sawyerbrook.com/" target="_blank">Sawyer Brook</a> very much. Superb fabrics and top notch customer service. Yes, I believe in paying for those things in the fabric world but when something lovely shows up for so much less at a different site I have to stop and wonder. Or marvel. At the apparent vagaries of pricing. Today, this.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqWicgnujr1KYGM_HkNPvOqO9OqOa7r5bP1NwzxcgmHNFBEhuHxe3gZShwxLEMQ5hJQsIw8VX47-9EZ7N2rZSozVp0xmNULa4rYT4LH6rhJwUhZGg9HvNl6V45YMERYVT_aaNZfiF0Wlk7/s1600/knitsb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqWicgnujr1KYGM_HkNPvOqO9OqOa7r5bP1NwzxcgmHNFBEhuHxe3gZShwxLEMQ5hJQsIw8VX47-9EZ7N2rZSozVp0xmNULa4rYT4LH6rhJwUhZGg9HvNl6V45YMERYVT_aaNZfiF0Wlk7/s320/knitsb.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Viscose/Elastane jersey print <a href="http://store.sawyerbrook.com/Botanical-Haze/productinfo/12%2D0905/" target="_blank">Botanical Haze</a> at SB.</div>
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$22.00 now on sale for $14.99</div>
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and</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjui4Z-XMBdbn7dMEtWmfTap4GgxCb_Z4z6b9j6ljzVJy6FWTQf21jA5mlPJPsyTWpV8pTVTWMPTDogocaiY_W8iNilptdLgp3qyXfmod0CdNjne59sCsyKvvBS88ppVlOfyQFFz7XLYq-2/s1600/knitlpf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjui4Z-XMBdbn7dMEtWmfTap4GgxCb_Z4z6b9j6ljzVJy6FWTQf21jA5mlPJPsyTWpV8pTVTWMPTDogocaiY_W8iNilptdLgp3qyXfmod0CdNjne59sCsyKvvBS88ppVlOfyQFFz7XLYq-2/s320/knitlpf.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Viscose/Elastane jersey print <a href="http://www.lowpricefabric.com/p-3155-trendy-knit-print-lime-brown-multi-ml210130-brown-chartreuse.aspx#" target="_blank">Trendy Knit Print</a> at Low Cost Fabrics.</div>
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$5.00</div>
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The colors look different in the photos but when I read the descriptions which both mention brown and chartreuse I am almost convinced they are the exact same fabric. If I really wanted to buy this fabric how much would I want to pay to support a favored business? Probably not 10 plus dollars per yard, unfortunately.</div>
<br />Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00315189728534076380noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6322077715660538567.post-86558369782934896972012-10-13T09:52:00.000-06:002012-10-13T09:52:22.055-06:00Off with her sleeves!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTkTfHhAVvqlVhH1yP0vO5eroR8uLK56UxlvcEdXQvvYQTGWtsnw__4On9jWfjv0TSfjMhBdopJ0i2kIn6J9Grmr7djPkAaqG_gbprlWPyWEhoVnF1qq7N-A2E8E9uqt7psA1SLEjnTqok/s1600/28897ed5d505ab419cefd294508c9a6a_best.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTkTfHhAVvqlVhH1yP0vO5eroR8uLK56UxlvcEdXQvvYQTGWtsnw__4On9jWfjv0TSfjMhBdopJ0i2kIn6J9Grmr7djPkAaqG_gbprlWPyWEhoVnF1qq7N-A2E8E9uqt7psA1SLEjnTqok/s320/28897ed5d505ab419cefd294508c9a6a_best.jpg" width="208" /></a></div>
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A J. Jill blouse purchased at a huge discount over a year ago stayed unworn in my closet for too long. Something about it didn't work for me. Along came The Sorbetto Top from Colette Patterns transforming the blouse into something I would wear.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQICBVCyl81sAU2vfORYFkP_VAHIjqR24YIZGtlrZokGdW5QeWTC6j7aaDhVEeogRSeyhZgsWZerJ-tne4GpgEPiOGq9X2W92_voMQw12x0rb_pxvvCBpA4bPtLm_It4XY2K6XqE6MlrS3/s1600/silktop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQICBVCyl81sAU2vfORYFkP_VAHIjqR24YIZGtlrZokGdW5QeWTC6j7aaDhVEeogRSeyhZgsWZerJ-tne4GpgEPiOGq9X2W92_voMQw12x0rb_pxvvCBpA4bPtLm_It4XY2K6XqE6MlrS3/s320/silktop.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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The tuck is the original from the blouse and the bias strips were cut from a sleeve. The hem is original from the blouse too. Alterations to the pattern were a small bust adjustment with the remaining dart converted to gathers at the side seam and the addition of a center back seam for shaping. </div>
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<a href="http://www.colettepatterns.com/" target="_blank">Colette Patterns</a> offers The Sorbetto Top as a <a href="http://www.coletterie.com/colette-patterns-news/free-pattern-to-download-the-sorbetto-top" target="_blank">free download</a>, hard to resist with all the rave reviews it has in the online sewing world. The pattern is ok and can produce a nice top. </div>
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<b>The good</b></div>
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<li>It is simple and easy to sew.</li>
<li>The neckline shape and front pleat are good for this style top.</li>
<li>It's free.</li>
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<b>The not so good</b></div>
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<li>The darts are huge and really long.</li>
<li>The pleat size does not grade with the pattern size.</li>
<li>The side seams wing out at the bottom.</li>
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<li>So with the dart already changed by my SBA I made the pleat smaller for the size 6 I was using and reshaped the side seams to be more bell shaped than flared at the bottom and things went well in the next top I made using a cotton lawn. </li>
<li>Then, since I don't like wearing woven tops much, they feel restrictive to me, I eliminated the front pleat and made the Sorbetto in a cotton jersey with ribbed binding. Not bad but it seemed a bit baggy and saggy in that fabric.</li>
<li>Then, continuing my usual variations on a theme method, I made the now pleat-less top in a cotton lycra that has some weight and crispness and simply turned under the neckline, armscyes, and hem stitching them down with the coverstitch machine.</li>
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Number 3 works really well for me, quick to make and easy to wear. Perfect with yoga pants and knit skirts for casual wear in warm weather. Thanks Colette Patterns!<br />
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Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00315189728534076380noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6322077715660538567.post-4174168933712863432011-11-27T11:09:00.000-07:002015-10-18T09:38:43.546-06:00Press on<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd-iFoWZfxJ4Mawt_7ZvXtJNFsxxEPGycMlu-4ZPT2lsD0TKRlX7M3TidTEQp7SJ1PZBiNm3GmyCOARxa7cT7AI8SXUbCxxI4ybX1ryfONQwpCz1Ow1gr6r43H0gWTryaLkVb94b0YC1uv/s1600/pressing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd-iFoWZfxJ4Mawt_7ZvXtJNFsxxEPGycMlu-4ZPT2lsD0TKRlX7M3TidTEQp7SJ1PZBiNm3GmyCOARxa7cT7AI8SXUbCxxI4ybX1ryfONQwpCz1Ow1gr6r43H0gWTryaLkVb94b0YC1uv/s320/pressing.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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A solution to the pressing table problem has appeared. I left the base of my previous pressing table setup behind when we moved. It was pretty rickety and hubby insisted it was not worth bringing. Where to put the top in my new sewing room was a difficult puzzle for a while. Then this buffet thing showed up in the local thrift store. I think it is an Ikea piece, the hardware is typical of their style, and it is, surprisingly, mostly solid wood. The pressing top is screwed to the back rail of the buffet's top to prevent tipping if I push down on the very front.<br />
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At first I thought I would cut off the narrow top shelf to create an open pressing surface but that high shelf is the handiest thing ever for pressing tools. I have two skinny fluorescent light fixtures from my old sewing room that will fit under the upper shelf to light up the pressing surface. They are lying on the pressing top in this photo since I haven't remembered yet where I put the mounting clips.<br />
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What is that green thing at the left in the photo? It's a Wilcox & Gibbs 515-4 series that does a chain stitch and overlock. It was being given away, how could I say no! More about that another day when I get it up and running. Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00315189728534076380noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6322077715660538567.post-73629404831363053622011-10-26T14:43:00.002-06:002011-10-26T14:47:02.941-06:00New Kwik Sew patternsKwik Sew has put out a new batch of patterns and, as usual, there are some excellent choices. Not that the pattern envelopes advertise this excellence. How unstylish can they possibly make a nicely sewn garment look? Let's take a look at the pattern envelope photos and then let's imagine how fabulous the garments really could be.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6nPCzgc1KcapgEkYGsLGDKzAEq0sX31jEH1SmzQw-Su_zATrvVEKvUx7VHIbCuSEwcEl9WdkXWaUjBcG9t70qs4nKD4CkTzAbU8Be5uz7wPnXJE1bIEfIbzkc0KEUZ6jwb0PA268IyzcC/s1600/3912.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6nPCzgc1KcapgEkYGsLGDKzAEq0sX31jEH1SmzQw-Su_zATrvVEKvUx7VHIbCuSEwcEl9WdkXWaUjBcG9t70qs4nKD4CkTzAbU8Be5uz7wPnXJE1bIEfIbzkc0KEUZ6jwb0PA268IyzcC/s320/3912.jpg" width="242" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://kwiksew.com/catalog/cat_detail.cfm?pid=3912&Cat=Collection&Level=New_Products&QL=NewNorth">Uptown Dresses</a> They put cute names on the patterns this time, I think it's a nice touch. This Uptown Dress has tons of potential and appeal. First of all, it's a pull over dress which means no fiddling with zipper installation. And a pockets option, I love pockets in a dress. The bias cut draped collar adds a bit of dress-up-ness. Maybe the simple fold back sleeves seem a bit plain but consider them instead the detail that provides the fabric choice challenge. This dress could be stunningly stylish in the right fabric, perhaps a featherweight Italian wool. Sew it up in an amazing fabric, add suitable accessories and it would be Vogue magazine ready.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS-LnfhU8UHQ82z7jSSIK8VkWNxoj4BkX-esrieuyRJyGIX4k5A_mAPZNkivt33387Tw_bRk6dHy4Tzp__4U8xbA6XmggDflT25mJP04dKHdacZ3kZqMvNoZXtGO6dDceWx2jFaXTd36av/s1600/3913.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS-LnfhU8UHQ82z7jSSIK8VkWNxoj4BkX-esrieuyRJyGIX4k5A_mAPZNkivt33387Tw_bRk6dHy4Tzp__4U8xbA6XmggDflT25mJP04dKHdacZ3kZqMvNoZXtGO6dDceWx2jFaXTd36av/s320/3913.jpg" width="242" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://kwiksew.com/catalog/cat_detail.cfm?pid=3913&Cat=Collection&Level=New_Products&QL=NewNorth">City Dress & Tunic</a> In this photo Kwik Sew manages to show with the purple top how nice this pattern can be. The slim shawl collar is perfect and the sleeve cuff repeats the collar shape nicely. An eye catching fabric with suitable drape is key. They grey sack on the paid-to-smile model with the stick arms and bad hair day is, well, hideous. </div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS8d-FwdkNsxy0WbGROKQT0ZNuCgBu4Y6yvpIG_f5drbwVAER2hROkZoHxrp9MCr-nbm-FMuYb95St5uUwsXwO60nKprndn8au8TgQZlt09Q7rAR7wlGtAoirhBTsTSuJ6v5lUEXojn6DK/s1600/3914.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS8d-FwdkNsxy0WbGROKQT0ZNuCgBu4Y6yvpIG_f5drbwVAER2hROkZoHxrp9MCr-nbm-FMuYb95St5uUwsXwO60nKprndn8au8TgQZlt09Q7rAR7wlGtAoirhBTsTSuJ6v5lUEXojn6DK/s320/3914.jpg" width="242" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://kwiksew.com/catalog/cat_detail.cfm?pid=3914&Cat=Collection&Level=New_Products&QL=NewNorth#">Pretty Pleated Skirts</a> The skirts are pretty, by themselves. The way the lavender one is styled makes it look like a repurposed laundry bag. Come on Kwik Sew! These are pull on skirts, again no zipper, how easy is that! It's designed for woven fabrics but I'm seeing knits, a wool jersey for the long one perhaps. Or the ever popular rayon/poly/lycra double knit which I don't like for myself but would work well here. On the other end of the spectrum I see a buttery soft drapey suede, yum.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAUlqopvRJHCNwslZHYXod81OmZhZvG0ZJHfey-ejrnOSIXojQwPEgw1845yF4KEXhHiuaUERmqn_yhcW96s90ME_UnLD2PpMR-zbF8wnx3_XTkNxTLeGG4uiLMr9zF4iA6TYh2gVMZ6wC/s1600/3915.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAUlqopvRJHCNwslZHYXod81OmZhZvG0ZJHfey-ejrnOSIXojQwPEgw1845yF4KEXhHiuaUERmqn_yhcW96s90ME_UnLD2PpMR-zbF8wnx3_XTkNxTLeGG4uiLMr9zF4iA6TYh2gVMZ6wC/s320/3915.jpg" width="242" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://kwiksew.com/catalog/cat_detail.cfm?pid=3915&Cat=Collection&Level=New_Products&QL=NewNorth">Ruched Neck Tops</a> The long sleeved view is a great on trend item. The outdoor/casual clothing companies are making their versions in fleece, nice for places on the planet that have proper winters. It would be interesting to extend the shawl collar into a hood which would make the neckline lie somewhat differently. </div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8_4vosu39w3jrgAiBymmDYREOXE6vh0nyk_fCnl-bk6jJ4o_tNolfzwZlRrkw5MopKVP_u_8AG8ZLpArX7S-q2KMxtNNW_mqWC7i_9kcmAvNumlyKCeyChmFTKQfsBPLRInu_4FEM9pxg/s1600/3916.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8_4vosu39w3jrgAiBymmDYREOXE6vh0nyk_fCnl-bk6jJ4o_tNolfzwZlRrkw5MopKVP_u_8AG8ZLpArX7S-q2KMxtNNW_mqWC7i_9kcmAvNumlyKCeyChmFTKQfsBPLRInu_4FEM9pxg/s320/3916.jpg" width="242" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://kwiksew.com/catalog/cat_detail.cfm?pid=3916&Cat=Collection&Level=New_Products&QL=NewNorth">Shawl Cardi & Vest</a> For "firm stretch knits". That could translate into one huge fugly mess. I my opinion this pattern needs fabric with some softness and drape. Anything stiff and cheap will make this look like a stiff and cheap uniform piece of the kind that one will only wear if getting paid to do so. In my fantasy world where I wear vests in this style I would use an alpaca knit. The jacket in a cashmere knit. </div><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://kwiksew.com/catalog/cat_detail.cfm?pid=3917&Cat=Collection&Level=New_Products&QL=NewNorth">Dolman Sleeve Jackets</a> Super simple and really cute...if worn right. Lucky Magazine would know how to make this the most awsome piece in your fall/winter wardrobe. Without some thought this could look like you just snipped the shoulder pads out of your fave 80's jacket.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbM_4fInQx59jE_HM-QhL9DUWBc7azyN3anLH70cfgWMZgtLZjfFoJiafpBW3zTqaPHl6A3Iz3lc-UNlvEcVlQCag7_U9ozOxxOcEUcvK51Hu40vzSeJYOq9UgUSIHSwNQqVn7rfFc0j92/s1600/3918.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbM_4fInQx59jE_HM-QhL9DUWBc7azyN3anLH70cfgWMZgtLZjfFoJiafpBW3zTqaPHl6A3Iz3lc-UNlvEcVlQCag7_U9ozOxxOcEUcvK51Hu40vzSeJYOq9UgUSIHSwNQqVn7rfFc0j92/s320/3918.jpg" width="242" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://kwiksew.com/catalog/cat_detail.cfm?pid=3918&Cat=Collection&Level=New_Products&QL=NewNorth">Jelly Roll Jacket</a> I'm not a quilter so I'm missing the jelly roll reference. What I do see is a very nice basic jacket with princess seams, a flattering collar, and interesting sleeve cuff treatments. This is a multi season and multi purpose jacket as it could be sewn in just about any fabric for any occasion. Embroidered silk for the opera, wool gabardine with metal buttons for winter casual, fleece for chilly days.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Thanks, Kwik Sew, for giving us new patterns! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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</div>Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00315189728534076380noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6322077715660538567.post-5290796588355726172011-07-06T17:05:00.003-06:002015-10-18T09:30:19.539-06:00Onion patterns<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
A little pattern shopping. I really like Onion patterns because they are simple to make and are well drafted. Like Burda Style, they are printed without seam allowances which means I can see the actual shape and size of the pattern piece and can make alterations if I want without having to fiddle with seam allowances.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvCGtNwfMvMp6u1isO54dOYc_8fb1mAb0D80YFNA389b8pZo-LQdNr5LStxw_N5CQnD3HKPfk4AXBOPNgxqU8cJxYPRCt2Afwv2RG9cts34ALUMEJR6iF69mLo7VGD5t-M2_MfairdHywd/s1600/skralukning.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvCGtNwfMvMp6u1isO54dOYc_8fb1mAb0D80YFNA389b8pZo-LQdNr5LStxw_N5CQnD3HKPfk4AXBOPNgxqU8cJxYPRCt2Afwv2RG9cts34ALUMEJR6iF69mLo7VGD5t-M2_MfairdHywd/s320/skralukning.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
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The asymmetric buttoning caught my eye. It wouldn't be difficult to change the front closure of any jacket to have this style but these days I don't have the drive these days to do extra things in my sewing. Just let me cut it out and sew! This is drafted for a B or C cup so I will alter that for my A and hopefully that will be good enough. I'm thinking fleece or wool. Summer is short here in the high mountains which is why I am already thinking warm things.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnvNy4P-YA5tIoc4_taw7Vf0mMF8j90xehUH4vDL783MrxkP_LQ74p2dkWk1jkhEJ4uhZDhjYBUxZgB4cI0sM3a6bPslV7llGvDA0_4-tEiGkOY6xt3PiU-KJdUJvBkxIANx-M0IIJyQx7/s1600/anorak.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnvNy4P-YA5tIoc4_taw7Vf0mMF8j90xehUH4vDL783MrxkP_LQ74p2dkWk1jkhEJ4uhZDhjYBUxZgB4cI0sM3a6bPslV7llGvDA0_4-tEiGkOY6xt3PiU-KJdUJvBkxIANx-M0IIJyQx7/s320/anorak.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
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An anorak with an easy way to sew a zipper and attach the hood. Once upon a time I had a thick wool anorak very much like this one. It was a gift from my roommate at a school in Norway and it suited the climate there very well. I'm not sure if I would sew this in wool though. There are so many new warm synthetics available now. Maybe just a windbreaker material as the wind does blow here in the spring and fall.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGmOX_D4GAaKQkdUUL48Xwjjfl63JRvrrzwojJd5YCsUH9BOtPXG6MecsxCqV-nqgzV1z0Y46IonfSjCfCtxKtVaU1dJkB90MrFyNA474z3KquYbUCtyKtVrzg22Haulw9le9nx96IGLE3/s1600/stakrave.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGmOX_D4GAaKQkdUUL48Xwjjfl63JRvrrzwojJd5YCsUH9BOtPXG6MecsxCqV-nqgzV1z0Y46IonfSjCfCtxKtVaU1dJkB90MrFyNA474z3KquYbUCtyKtVrzg22Haulw9le9nx96IGLE3/s320/stakrave.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
This one I ordered mostly to see how Onion did the collar and neckline. It has the princess seam to the asmscye which I tend to like better than the princess seam to the shoulder so having this pattern will give me the option of using either type princess with other neck and collar treatments.<br />
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My new sewing room is almost set up just as I want it. A huge dresser was in there that came with the house and it took up way too much room. I sold it through a consignment shop and now the big space taker is out! Maybe I'll take some photos soon. If I'm not outside enjoying the sunshine and mountains.Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00315189728534076380noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6322077715660538567.post-41250569279085355232011-05-28T14:10:00.000-06:002011-05-28T14:10:54.373-06:00Really?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHzEIKnrQvzLZAWT9rbEUkwN2gn5-hCEw8ULQ1gUf4iR5yG9yg8OydCWvpQ1zd2EHNWwyGdYnoE2ugnJzE8Xir5IgTHL6c2v6XV_jDBbu2lXFxyAhakGnZY2ytqva_zJDQL6_qS9EP-T-J/s1600/scrubtop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="271" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHzEIKnrQvzLZAWT9rbEUkwN2gn5-hCEw8ULQ1gUf4iR5yG9yg8OydCWvpQ1zd2EHNWwyGdYnoE2ugnJzE8Xir5IgTHL6c2v6XV_jDBbu2lXFxyAhakGnZY2ytqva_zJDQL6_qS9EP-T-J/s320/scrubtop.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Here is a scrub top I made in spring of 2007 with a cotton print from the chain store Hancock Fabrics.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_9xQgALQu_E7cyufWBXxoq-CgaWWdyh0Dln-Ztw6du1lUkpwjFyQ8Gd9zAPebntmsEDCmS7gn939dLSLUc8oijxVuOblnAxWjDqlAvnPDAxt8h8SeFLlf2GYpFgHomWQCbRrm0GaUqKBJ/s1600/cotton_MLtokyo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_9xQgALQu_E7cyufWBXxoq-CgaWWdyh0Dln-Ztw6du1lUkpwjFyQ8Gd9zAPebntmsEDCmS7gn939dLSLUc8oijxVuOblnAxWjDqlAvnPDAxt8h8SeFLlf2GYpFgHomWQCbRrm0GaUqKBJ/s320/cotton_MLtokyo.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Here is a "Maggy London tokyo special cotton woven" currently on Emma One Sock's site. </div>Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00315189728534076380noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6322077715660538567.post-66670974631055892312011-01-31T08:33:00.001-07:002011-01-31T08:40:30.429-07:00More stealing my looks<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://anntaylor.com/">Ann Taylor</a>, have you been messing around in my closet of the past? You have stolen my looks for your spring lineup. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS-nR-IAIJB-nHbYN5TwIHWGeK3OL5_W7eLQ1UWsHPVQzNYUZV6ukvP7-n_5KkYVtToyAfqdNu-liPh6RK3qK-kVhgUZspSqa_ll0sUXxVxgxyokpZ7tuzXEdCXpcRXdfq3G936koqQN_q/s1600/ak1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS-nR-IAIJB-nHbYN5TwIHWGeK3OL5_W7eLQ1UWsHPVQzNYUZV6ukvP7-n_5KkYVtToyAfqdNu-liPh6RK3qK-kVhgUZspSqa_ll0sUXxVxgxyokpZ7tuzXEdCXpcRXdfq3G936koqQN_q/s320/ak1.jpg" width="260" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Slate gray menswear style shorts with rolled cuffs, knit top tucked in, bracelets. Been there done that in the early 90's. The sideseam and back welt pockets were handy for the various things one ends up carrying when one has children in tow. I wore those shorts to death. Heels would have been a hooker look back then, I wore flats or sandals.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Canvas "utility" pants with the legs rolled up to mid or high calf. Mine were a dusty green and fit like a dream. They got lots of use in the late 80's. I usually wore flipflops, a gauze shirt, and simple silver bangles to complete my look.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo3xsBIl74ApMBVUC_8U-c-jNMh_k0-flpkCkg740HWaqwOY-Spst3ujbtnMRujZO0h_Z_vfbKNFTMFr4D66aWQFfDRQojsmsPVqqqceAD6xadODY4gD_SVmblJE79tNcOZi83kUPHGkab/s1600/ak3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo3xsBIl74ApMBVUC_8U-c-jNMh_k0-flpkCkg740HWaqwOY-Spst3ujbtnMRujZO0h_Z_vfbKNFTMFr4D66aWQFfDRQojsmsPVqqqceAD6xadODY4gD_SVmblJE79tNcOZi83kUPHGkab/s320/ak3.jpg" width="260" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The mid 90's are back. Already. Ann Taylor is using a rayon blend ponte knit but I will bet that my 100% poly knit pants in a twill texture were much more durable. I still have mine for some reason. Maybe as a reminder of how I have allowed my rear to become a size that looks really bad in those pants. I wore mine with flats, sometimes really cool (I thought) ankle boot heels with a front zip, and a tucked in silk blouse top.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">All this been there done that-ness is giving me fashion ennui. Am I really so old that there is nothing new?</div>Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00315189728534076380noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6322077715660538567.post-53027645306794280242011-01-28T15:58:00.005-07:002011-01-29T14:43:14.788-07:00Style tips from my readers<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I have been thinking about the interesting "completing an outfit" ideas that appeared in the comments on my Giveaway post.</div><div><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px; font-weight: normal;">Harry Mason earspirals</span></span></b></span></td></tr>
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<b>Earrings complete the look - Lynn</b></div><div>A simple thing like choosing the right earrings can make an outfit sing. Once upon a time I wore earrings every day, even to the gym. I still have my favorites of that collection but I never wear them, they don't suit now <s>that I'm over the hill</s>. There is one pair that I do wear occasionally, pretty ones by <a href="http://www.harrymason.com/">Harry Mason</a> that were a gift from MIL last summer. New earrings are now on my list, I feel much more dressed when wearing them.</div><div><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Forever 21 cardigan</td></tr>
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<b>A good sweater cardigan for a professional look - Joyce in NC</b></div><div>There are lots of great sweater cardigans in the stores now, a shape for every body. Moto jackets, pea coats, blazers, and plenty of unusual shapes all in good knits. I recently got an inexpensive acrylic cardigan that is like a large circle with sleeves put in. The result is a cozy shawl collar plus a cutaway jacket effect, a lot like the Forever 21 version in the photo. I really just wanted a cardigan for a warmth layer but now I see that this item could work quite well as a jacket substitute for a put together look.</div><div><br />
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<b>Limit the choices to a basic color - Terri</b> </div><div>I like the theory of this. My wardrobe is woefully small and is lacking in color variety, maybe I'm already practicing this but, sadly, not on purpose. Still, there is good inspiration here in the form of blending different tones of the same color in a single outfit. I have a lot of blue. I love blue. The winter sky is many shades of perfect blue from dawn to dusk and even at night. If the sky can wear several shades of its blue at any given time, well then I can too. My slight compulsion for superorder that says things must match will just have to rest.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirfoNKgyw9Cez-TLOvwKcUi9j4SrocNWncMK1yrzEMUu80noJpSjcmu7GVzff0PwN-rYd-yLyeBNlz7OCSX9FNy2CUnhzWSNUyRa2h20w4cHztK3xHJcp5NMSiR653Lno-nK-RP2nUMyCm/s1600/357746_one_fine_morning.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirfoNKgyw9Cez-TLOvwKcUi9j4SrocNWncMK1yrzEMUu80noJpSjcmu7GVzff0PwN-rYd-yLyeBNlz7OCSX9FNy2CUnhzWSNUyRa2h20w4cHztK3xHJcp5NMSiR653Lno-nK-RP2nUMyCm/s1600/357746_one_fine_morning.png" /></a></div></div>Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00315189728534076380noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6322077715660538567.post-72842913970580661682011-01-26T09:06:00.000-07:002011-01-26T09:06:30.946-07:00Thrifty me<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ann Taylor jacket $3.68 - Goodwill</td></tr>
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Inspired by the success style bloggers are having at thrift stores I decided to stop by Goodwill yesterday. I haven't been thrifting in several years and I think it is because I started finding the racks full of raggedy things that really belonged in the recycle bin. Maybe it was the stores I was going to, stores which did not include this particular Goodwill.<br />
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I was was very happy to find this practically new Ann Taylor jacket in my size. It is a poly/triacetate long jacket with concealed buttoning and side seam pockets. The darts are interesting, the points meet at the bust which perhaps means it is a princess seam with an angle. This lighter photo shows it better. The jacket also has a thin cord belt but as I'm not a fan of belts of any type for myself I doubt I'll use that.<br />
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I think the jacket looks much better on me. It fits me better anyway. Matilda makes it look sort of frumpy with her high and pointy boobage.Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00315189728534076380noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6322077715660538567.post-24241489080101265242011-01-23T13:32:00.003-07:002011-01-23T13:49:15.833-07:00and the Giveaway book goes to...<b>Joyce in NC!</b> <div><br /></div><div>You have some happy reading coming your way, Joyce. E me at ehvatum at gmail dot com and let me know the shipping address.</div><div><br /></div><div>Thanks Lynn, Joyce in NC, and Terri for participating in my very first Giveaway! It is great to have your company here in blogworld. <br /><div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div></div>Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00315189728534076380noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6322077715660538567.post-70274960763319060022011-01-20T06:22:00.006-07:002011-01-20T07:36:04.825-07:00Cut it out - "fold of fabric" nonsense<div style="text-align: left;"><i>First of all, thank you so much for the comments on my previous post! It's wonderful to have company here in blogworld!</i></div><div><br /></div><div>And then to the title topic. Pattern layout suggestions usually show folded fabric and that's just silly in my opinion. I get that many or most people have limited space at home for laying out their fabric for cutting and that folding the fabric in one way or another helps but I find cutting a double layer is often wasteful and inaccurate.</div><div><br /></div><div>Ages ago I started cutting one pattern piece at time in order to use less fabric than the pattern suggested. I would still cut things on the fold but individually folded for each pattern piece. I usually saved quite a bit of fabric with that method and with small child size items I could sometimes squeeze out two garments instead of the one.</div><div><br /></div><div>The fold was always problematic. If the fabric had any thickness to it at all it was difficult to place the pattern edge on the fold. One can easily make a + or - 1/4 inch error with a fold and that can make a big difference at times. Pattern pieces that are relatively small and have a short folded edge, a facing piece for example, are difficult to place correctly.</div><div><br /></div><div>Yesterday as I cut out yet another <a href="http://thefittinglife.blogspot.com/2010/01/kwiksew-3338-review.html">KwikSew 3338</a> tee I thought about how pattern companies supply us with half patterns. What's this half pattern business anyway? Is it that hard to print the full piece? Cost saving for them, I know, and more work for us. KwikSew had printed half a front, half a back, and half a neck binding for this tee. The neck binding pattern is really silly, it's a strip of fabric 24" long and 1.5" wide and KwikSew's pattern piece is 12" by 1.5" cut on the fold. I have traced the pattern and made full front and back pattern pieces on <a href="http://www.shoppellon.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=67&products_id=255">Easy Pattern</a> material. The full pattern pieces make it much easier to place on the fabric on grain and to see how to lay out the pieces to make the best use of fabric.</div><div><br /></div><div>BTW, JoAnn sells that Easy Pattern material. They hide it in the interfacing section and coupons can be used. </div><div><br /></div><div>Happy sewing!</div><div> </div>Lizhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00315189728534076380noreply@blogger.com