Monday 24 October 2011

A Quick Win - Simplicity 2865

Last night I just wanted to sew something quick so I pulled out Simplicity 2865, a Built by Wendy pattern, and a lovely Australian made cotton lycra knit.


I cut out view C in a size 12, left off the front placket (just an oblong sewed on, not a true placket) and the side inserts.  I didn't even need extra length!  I checked Pattern Review and a few people mentioned that they sized down because the pattern runs big.  I think that's true when you use the side inserts, they add extra room around your middle, but because I left them off I had to use quarter inch side seams so that it wouldn't be too tight.  Lesson learned? Think, don't just assume!



I really like this top and will get so much wear out of it - I can see myself making this up a few different ways so you might be seeing it again soon.  And Mum, if you're reading, that's your birthday present blooming behind me in the top photo. 

Tuesday 18 October 2011

Success! Simplicity 2443

I've finally got something to show!  I think my jacket's pretty cute, it's certainly not perfect, but I'm OK with that.

This is the jacket from Simplicity 2443 and I've got to say that I'm pretty impressed with the pattern drafting.  I hate easing in sleeves, but for the first time ever these worked first go.  Not unsightly wrinkles or puckers, it was great.  A lot of people have mentioned that they had problems with the instructions for the sleeve plackets, with that in mind I took my time but I had no problems and I'm really happy with how they've turned out.


This is a size 14 made straight out of the packet - I did add a lining and I've left off the middle bars between the front pockets and the ribbon ties.  I'm planning another version and I plan on adding some extra length and leaving off the front pockets.

Sorry - I'm not scowling at you the sun's in my eyes.

This is a great casual jacket that injects a shot of colour into my spring wardrobe.  I've got so many things that I want to sew I'm not quite sure where to start.  Hopefully that means there will be plenty of action happening here.

Friday 14 October 2011

Coming soon...

...An actual finished garment.  Hopefully by the end of this weekend I'll have something to show you.

Here's a progress shot of what I'm working on.  Do you recognise the pattern?


Just when I thought I was getting into a bit of a groove my sewing mojo up and left, hence three weeks with no post.  But spurred on by an online Tessuti purchase (a couple of metres of this is heading my way) I'm planning on spending a considerable amount of my weekend holed up in my sewing room.

See you Sunday.  Do you have plans for the weekend?