Monday 27 August 2012

Gone Dotty

In the recent (online) Tessuti sale I bought this black dotty jersey I didn't know what I wanted to make, but I knew I had to have it.  Then driving home from the Melbourne meet up (more on that in a minute) I realised it would make a perfect balloon top.  




I love this pattern - the round neckline at the front, the gentle V at the back, the shape of the sleeves.  It just really does it for me and I think this version might be my new favourite (previous versions here, here and here)  

I already mentioned that I went to the Melbourne meet up.  I was nervous as all get out (I absolutely dread walking into a room full of strangers) but everyone was great and it was pretty cool to see some of things I'd really admired in person.  I had a really lovely afternoon and came home so inspired - it was a great kick start to my mojo.  I don't have any photos, but there are lots of great posts that do - here's the full list of attendees if you'd like to check out some inspiring ladies:

Rachel :My messings
Kirsty: Rocket Sews
Lara: Thornberry
Melanie: PoppyKettle
Christy: Little Betty
Sarah: Sewsquirrell

Special mention to the lovely blog-less ladies AnnaCatherine, Heather and Sue A. 

Finally - I'll leave you with a little sneak peak of another finished item - I just need to get some photos of me wearing it.

Sunday 12 August 2012

Frustrated

I am so disappointed.  After tracing the pattern, adding seam allowances and very carefully sewing up the lining I found that my BWOF jacket was way too big so I have to start all over again. It nags at me every time I think about starting something else.  I've had the fabric and pattern sitting in my stash for so long that I just want it done, but I don't want to mess it up by rushing or forcing it.  Does this happen to anyone else?  I've bought some more lining fabric and I will finish it within the next couple of weeks before the cold weather is gone.


To try and ease my disappointment I made another mission maxi (previous version here), this time I used the version with the godet in the back.   I love it.  Wade loves it, especially the back.  This pattern is such a winner - I don't think I've seen a bad version.  This is a straight size 14 with an extra 5 inches added to the (unfinished) hem.  I need to get Wade to help me trim the hem of the godet so that it's even with the rest of the dress - the slight train effect is nice, but I'll trip over it all the time so it needs to go.


The worst thing about this dress is the fabric.  It just won't take any pressing and I'm worried that if I turn up the temperature I'll melt it.  This dress should be photographed on a beach somewhere warm and sunny but it's cold and wet in Melbourne so indoor pictures are the best I can do.  


I've got a couple of new tops to show you too - I needed a simple project to get my mojo running again.