Getting back to it

I've wanted to step back into this space for a while but felt like I needed to wait for the right moment.  I have no idea what I thought the right moment would look like, so I kept waiting.  Time to just jump straight back in.  

I have a massive list of all the things I want to sew, more than I will ever have time for, and then when I do have time to sew I get distracted by all the projects.  I've spent a bit of time thinking about what I need and what I'd like to make and this is where I landed:

Image via Something Delightful

A black slip.  I'm going to use Butterick 6031. I ended up throwing away my last slip once it had patches in it that had worn through.  Also, my shape had changed (or the slip shrank) as it no longer covered my bum and that's pretty important.  I bought two of Gertie's kits to make these years ago so I have everything I need.  There's several items in my wardrobe I can't wear without a slip so this will be enormously helpful.

Image via Simplicity.com

Camel trousers.  I have some beautiful camel wool that I bought from Clear It several years ago with the intention of making trousers.  I think I'll use Simplicity 8056.  I have practically lived in an old, worn out pair of black pants for the last 12 months so these will be a very welcome change.  Also, they should work really nicely with my predominantly black, white, grey and navy wardrobe.

image via Friday Pattern Company

Cambria Duster.  I bought the fabric and pattern for this thinking it would be great for spring.  It never got done (are you sensing a theme!)  Anyway, I think it will work just as well as a light layer for autumn.  I'm planning on using this Harley fabric from Tessuti.

image via @truebias

Square neck Nikko top.  I've made the Nikko top from True Bias multiple times over the years.  I loved the square neck version that Kelli did using the hack from What Bella Made.  I'm planning on making it in black depending on what fabric is in the stash.

This is a really good jumping off point for me but I know that there'll be other projects that sneak into the queue.  I think this will help keep me on track when I don't know where to start,

Return to work sewing plans

I head back to work on Monday and I'm excited for the year ahead.  What I'm not excited about is the daily struggle of trying to find something to wear. 

For months I've been trying to stretch a handful of separates (both me made and RTW) and it's been really frustrating.  I have enough to be appropriately clothed.  I don't have enough to only wear things I feel good in or to change my mind if I don't feel like wearing a particular item.  It's a total first world problem but it's not a great way to start the day.  Clearly my sewing time has been devoted to casual sewing for too long. 

So my focus for January is sewing more work wear.  I pulled these patterns and I've already made a start, I've cut three silk camis, a white linen Inari tee and a pair of Ginger jeans in black drill (these are a total wardrobe workhorse for me).  I need to muslin the McCall's dress and hope to make a start on it soon.  The best part is that all the fabric and patterns are already in my stash!

I'm not locking myself into these patterns but I am focusing on pieces for work.  Also, if you have any work wear blogs or Instagram accounts that you love please share - I'd love some more inspiration!

Do you struggle with what to wear to work?  Do you make your work clothes?  If you do, what are some of your favourite patterns?

#2018makenine and other goals

I like the concept of nominating 9 projects for the year so I've made a #2018makenine.  I've already posted it on Instagram but I thought I'd recap here and capture a couple of other goals too.

Let's start with the other goals.  Like so many others my stash is overflowing and I'm feeling a little overwhelmed by it.  As I was scrolling Instagram over Christmas I found Katrina's stash diet and decided to join in.  I have fabric piled high on an armchair in my sewing room and I won't be buying any other fabric until it's cleared (my cupboards are also overflowing but I'm trying to be realistic and set small, achievable goals).

This year I'm also saving for a coverstitch machine.  I've wanted one for a long time, Wade even told me to just go out and buy one, but I want to save for it and get the satisfaction of doing this on my own.

Finally, here's 9 projects that I really want to make this year.

True Bias Lodo dress - I already have the pattern and the fabric.

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True Bias Lander Pants I have the pattern and need to dig through my stash to see if I can find the right fabric.

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Swim Style Chic Bandeau Bikini - Pattern purchased, fabric in the stash, just need the findings.

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Grainline Studio Cascade Duffle Coat  I have the pattern, fabric and toggles.

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Grainline Studio Archer Shirt I have the pattern and some beautiful linen and I hope to make a start this week.

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Orange Lingerie Esplanade Bra Need to buy everything for this one - will be later in the year I think.

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Cloth Habit Harriet bra  I have the pattern and I have the fabric and findings.

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Style Arc Ziggi Jacket (in leather) I have the pattern.

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It's a bit of a challenge and I'm keen to get started.  It will be interesting to see if the plan changes as the year progresses.  Do you have sewing plans and goals for 2018?

Magic!

It's official.  The True Bias Ogden Cami is magic!  I haven't seen a version I don't like.  It's gorgeous as drafted but there are so many ways you can alter it to make it your own.  And it's about the easiest thing ever to sew.

I fell in love with this printed rayon at Spotlight and knew that I'd found the perfect fabric for my first (yes there will be more) Ogden Cami.

Because the fabric is a little bit sheer I did a full lining instead of just the partial lining included but other than that this is straight off the PDF.  Next time I think I'll add about an inch to the length to give myself options with the hem.  I've finished this version with a baby hem because I didn't want to lose any length so it would be nice to be able to adjust that slightly next time.

When I bought this pattern I also bought the Southport Dress, Colfax dress and the Sutton blouse and now I'm really keen to get them sewn up.  I was really impressed with the drafting and instructions and the final fit.  I have no idea what's next in my sewing queue - I want to make all the things!