McCall’s 6394

Greetings Dolls~I can't believe so much time has slipped past since my last post. I really need to make a New Years resolution to update this blog more frequently. Well enough of the chatter let's move on to my reason for this post, McCall’s 6394. It was completed back in March and I've worn it several times. This dress has no 'hanger appeal' but when worn it is a very nice dress.

McCall’s 6394
Pattern Description:

Lined dress, sleeveless, short sleeves, or 3/4 length sleeves, can be sewn in one single fabric color, or color blocked. McCall’s 6394 can be sewn with a deep V-neckline or rounded neckline. The pattern has options for A, B, C, and, D cup sizing.

Pattern Sizing:

6-14.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

Yes, my version looks exactly like View C. I added a fabric made with the Charcoal Grey Ponte De Roma. 

Were the instructions easy to follow?

The pattern instructions were clear and I did read them thoroughly, but I changed several things and sewed without referring to them. The pattern envelope has "EASY" in bold letters on the front and I would disagree with that. I don't think a pattern with 11 pieces and right angled yokes should be considered easy. It is not difficult to sew, but someone with limited sewing experience might become very frustrated trying to construct this "EASY" pattern.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?

I loved the overall silhouette and the trendy color-blocked design.

Fabric Used:

Tan moleskin purchased at JoAnn’s Fabrics several years ago and Charcoal Grey Ponte De Roma purchased from Vogue Fabrics online.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:

I did my usual 3/8” shoulder adjustment at the back shoulder seam and added 4” to the length.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?

Yes, I plan to make it again in a solid black and houndstooth check. I would not recommend this pattern for a beginner sewer.

Conclusion:

I love this dress !! I receive compliments each time I wear it.

McCall’s 5929/McCall's 5523 (V. 2)

McCall’s 5929

Pattern Description:

MISSES' SHIRTS: Fitted shirts A, B have darted front and back, front band, front ruffles and shaped hemline; shirt A has stand-up collar, below elbow length sleeves with sleeve band; shirt B has collar and collar band, full length sleeves with placket opening and cuffs; dresses A, B have sleeves gathered at cap and lower edge.

Pattern Sizing:

6-14.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

Yes.

Were the instructions easy to follow?

I thought the instructions were pretty clear.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?

I loved the overall silhouette. The fitting darts and the shaped hemline made it very figure flattering.

Fabric Used:

A lightweight synthetic fabric purchased in Philadelphia over a year ago (I can’t remember the name of the store).

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:

I did my usual 3/8” shoulder adjustment at the back shoulder seam. The pattern was long enough that I did not have to add length to the bodice.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?

Yes, I plan to make it again in a solid black and I highly recommend this pattern. It’s a great wardrobe builder for someone like me who likes the versatility of mixing and matching separates.

Conclusion:

I love this blouse !!

McCall's 5523 (V. 2)

Pattern Description: Straight skirt, mid-knee length, has side zipper and faced waistline; skirt A has shaped lower back flounce; skirt B has pleated lower back; skirt C has gathered lower back with self-fabric ruffle; skirt D has two lower back flounces. For this version I made View D, with the double back flounces.

Pattern Sizing: 4-18

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Yes it looks like the pattern photo but it's hard to see the panels of the skirt due to the print of the fabric. 

Were the instructions easy to follow? The pattern instructions were easy to follow but I did make one minor tweak. The pattern instructions have you to make a 1-1/4" hem on the flounce but I did not attempt this method. I'm not sure if anyone else has had success with making a standard hem on a curved pattern piece but I thought it was a recipe for disaster. I have found over the years and through many sewing projects that a narrow hem works much better on curves and produces more professional results.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I love the panel design of the skirts and the various flounce/pleat back details. I was able to make a fitting adjustment quickly with the panel design of this skirt. I removed 3/8" from the 4 seamlines in the back of the skirt to reduce the waistline by a total of 1-1/2" and then blended back to the original seamline at the hip. This adjustment was a breeze because only a tiny bit was taken from the seamlines at the waist.

Fabric Used: A moleskin solid purchased from JoAnn's Fabrics. 

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: I pegged it 1" at the hemline removing a total of 4" from the hemline circumference and I removed 1-1/2" from the waistline.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? Yes, it is officially my TNT skirt pattern! I recommend it to others even beginners because it is a great wardrobe builder and quite easy to sew.

Conclusion: This is a great skirt pattern with various details and fairly quick to sew.

McCall's 5523

Pattern Description: Straight skirt, mid-knee length, has side zipper and faced waistline; skirt A has shaped lower back flounce; skirt B has pleated lower back; skirt C has gathered lower back with self-fabric ruffle; skirt D has two lower back flounces. I made View A, with the single back flounce.

Pattern Sizing: 4-18
Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Yes it looks like the pattern photo but it's hard to see the panels of the skirt due to the print of the fabric. 

Were the instructions easy to follow? The pattern instructions were easy to follow but I did make one minor tweak. The pattern instructions have you to make a 1-1/4" hem on the flounce but I did not attempt this method. I'm not sure if anyone else has had success with making a standard hem on a curved pattern piece but I thought it was a recipe for disaster. I have found over the years and through many sewing projects that a narrow hem works much better on curves and produces more professional results.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I love the panel design of the skirts and the various flounce/pleat back details. I was able to make a fitting adjustment quickly with the panel design of this skirt. I removed 3/8" from the 4 seamlines in the back of the skirt to reduce the waistline by a total of 1-1/2" and then blended back to the original seamline at the hip. This adjustment was a breeze because only a tiny bit was taken from the seamlines at the waist.

Fabric Used: Animal print moleskin purchased from Fabric.com. 
Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: I pegged it 1" at the hemline removing a total of 4" from the hemline circumference and I removed 1-1/2" from the waistline.
Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? Yes, it is officially my TNT skirt pattern! I recommend it to others even beginners because it is a great wardrobe builder and quite easy to sew.

Conclusion: This is a great quick, sew skirt pattern with various details.

Vogue 7340/McCall's 6757

Vogue 7340
Pattern Description: Wrap blouse with collar variations, front tucks and tie ends.

Pattern Sizing: 8-18

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Yes, with modifications.

Were the instructions easy to follow? Very easy

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? No dislikes.

Fabric Used: A stretch satin with metallic threads throughout the fabric.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: I made View C but added sleeves and wide cuffs. I added 1-1/2 inches to the length after reading other reviews. I used the tie from View A because I wanted a wider tie. I also add a few inches to the length of the tie.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I received several compliments when I wore this ensemble and I would love to sew this blouse again but this is my second version so its time to move on to other projects.

Conclusion: Although I won't make this pattern again I really love this blouse. It is OOP and available on Etsy.

McCall's 6757

Pattern Description: Misses' skirt and pants: Semi-fitted skirt and pant (slightly flared) have contour waistband, welt pockets and invisible back zipper.

Pattern Sizing: (8-10-12-14-16)

Fabric used: 
A synthetic tweed with a slightly loose weave.

Did it look like the envelope when you were done sewing it?
Yes, pretty much except I moved the invisible zipper to the left side. 

How were the directions? 
You know, directions were pretty great until I got to the welt pockets. The instructions for the welt pockets are a little cumbersome so I followed this video for the welt pockets. 

Likes/Dislikes:
Although constructing the welt pockets were a bit challenging, I do love the final result! I love the shaped waistband.

Alterations/Modifications:
I added 3" to the pants length and 2" to the crotch seam (1" to the front and 1" to the back). The pattern is slightly more flared than like so I removed about 4" of flare from the hem. As mentioned earlier I moved the zipper to the left side and I lined the pants.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?
Yes, I do recommend this pattern and I plan to make another pair. I used my new pants form to achieve the perfect fit.

Conclusion:
This is a good basic pattern which I chose for its simple style because my focus was on fit.  

Custom Pants Form

Greetings divas!
I made a custom pants form with lots of help from hubby (actually he did all of the work I just stood as still as a statue for over an hour). After doing some research and reading several reviews, I decided that a pinnable, custom-made dress/pants form would be my best option. During my research, I learned about the My Twin dress form and ordered the instruction booklet from the company's website. Unfortunately, it appears the company is no longer in business. However, similar instructions that detail this process can be found here. 

 

Me, waiting for the plaster bandages to dry.

The plaster cast taped together at the sides before
 being filled with 2-part expanding foam.

The My Twin process uses plaster bandages to create a  body cast, which is cut from the body and later filled  with expanding foam and covered to create the  finished dress/pants form. I also used the My Twin  process to make my first custom dress form back in  2009, shortly after the instruction booklet arrived in the  mail. As a result of weight-training and cardiovascular  exercise 3-5 times per week my body has changed since  then so I will be making another dress form soon.

My finished pants form!

McCall's 6650/Vogue 2029

 

McCall's 6650

Pattern Description:

Loose-fitting, pullover blouse with button placket in back. There are various sleeve and neck treatments. I wanted the bow -- but this pattern is a fabric hog and I didn't have enough! So I made View C, with long sleeves and button cuffs.

Pattern Sizing:

4-12.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

Yes.
Were the instructions easy to follow?

Very basic.
What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?

I like the fact that the sleevehead had minimal ease. The instructions would have you simply press open the placket and stitch it down. This seems to be a lazy way to do this -- I would recommend you do a continuous bound placket here.
Fabric Used:

I used a crepe-backed satin purchased at Hancock’s it was fairly easy to sew with. The fabric snags quite easily so I had to be very careful to avoid snags.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:

I changed the soft gathers at the neckline to 3 tucks which I really like.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?

Yes, I plan to make it again. This is a very easy to make top and would be great for beginners.
Conclusion: 

Its a nice, basic top with design elements to keep it from being too plain. I love the color of the satin and I received several compliments when I wore it to work.

Vogue 2029 (OOP)

Pattern Description:

Semi-fitted, straight wrap skirt (sits below natural waist), above mid-knee/above ankle variations or lower calf, with various closures.

Pattern Sizing:

(6-10)(12-16)(18-22)

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

It looks very similar to the pattern photo.

Were the instructions easy to follow?

There are 5 pages of instructions which I only glanced at briefly. I made view F so I didn't have to worry about buying additional things that were not already in my stash.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?

Pros: It was easy. The lines are easy. It's basically making the same thing twice (with the exception of the little tab on one side), putting right sides together, stitching them on all the edges leaving part of one side open, and turning it right side out. The pattern is designed for a self-fabric lining which I considered a huge waste of fashion fabric. A self-fabric lining was not a consideration for me due to the weight and thickness of my fabric.

Fabric Used:

I used a mid-weight boucle fabric purchased at G-Street Fabrics several years ago.

Pattern Alterations or any design changes you made:

I reduce the waistline by sewing deeper darts and I used a silver belt buckle for my closure.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?
The fabric is already selected for the next version.

Conclusion
I really like it and received several compliments when I wore it.

Summer Sewing

Greetings divas!

I know its been a while since my last post but I have been sewing, really I have. I will attribute my absence to a very busy summer which included a wonderful vacation to Niagara Falls and training for my first ½ marathon. Now that both young people are in their respective locations and the nest is yet again empty I can focus on sewing. With summer being officially behind us I’m getting really excited about some of the fall projects I have planned. But before I get on a tangent about my fall sewing plans let me show you what I’ve worked on since my last post.

Butterick 5601

Pattern Description: 

Close-fitting, straight, above mid-knee dresses A, B have lined yoke, bodice and back zipper. A: back self-fabric loop and button at neck. B: back straps worn twisted and buttoned on inside of yoke.  

Pattern Sizing:

(6-8-10-12)

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? The bodice on both versions look like the pattern envelope but on my first version (the green print) I made modifications to the skirt. 

Were the instructions easy to follow? 

Yes they were. 

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?

 No dislikes but the bodice does run quite large.

Fabric Used:

 Cotton sateen (green print) and a linen/synthetic blend (coral solid) both from my stash.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:

On my first version (green print) the skirt was modified to an eight gore fit to flare skirt with piping and a waist inset was added. On my second version (the coral solid) only the waist inset was added which was embellished with sew-on jewels

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?

Yes I do recommend it but I don't think I'll sew it again. 

Conclusion: Its a cute dress that was fun to make. I modeled the green print version at the 2013 ASG National Conference Fashion Show.

This dress is a self-drafted pattern which is a work in progress. It was almost complete until I realized the back of the dress pulls up at the center back so I'll have to do some deconstruction in the next few days and try to figure out what the problem is and find a solution. The fabric is an ITY knit so I'll have to wear it under a jacket or cardigan when it is complete. It also has short sleeves which I will attach once I resolve the issue with the back. 

Both of these skirts are self-drafted patterns. I'm not really sure if they can be called patterns considering they are literally two rectangles (front and back) sewn together at the side seams with an elasticized waistband  and a coverstitched hem. They are great wardrobe builders and truly instant sewing gratification.

Vogue 8451 (OOP)

Pattern Description: Misses tops.
Pattern Sizing: 6-8-10-12.
Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Yes.
Were the instructions easy to follow? Yes.
What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I thought the sleeves were really cute.
Fabric Used: Ponte knit.
Pattern Alterations or any design changes you made: I embellished the neckline with iron-on studs.
Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? This is my second one. I highly recommend this pattern but I have no plans to make a third version.
Conclusion: I had trouble getting the neckline facing to fit the neckline so I placed the garment against the feed dogs and the facing piece on top of the garment and let the feed dogs do their job, easy peasy it worked like a charm. Besides the neckline issue it was a fairly simple project to make. 

Butterick 5497

Pattern Sizing:
6-8-10-12.
Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?
Yes, it did.
Were the instructions easy to follow?
Yes, very clear instructions.
What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?
I especially love the neckline and back opening. It opens a little low in the back so I wear it with a cami underneath.
Fabric Used:
Ponte knit which is super comfortable and very soft next to the skin.
Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:
None.
Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?
I highly recommend this pattern to others and I plan to make at least one more.

What I've been up to.....

This is my first blog post since I joined the Sew Your Own Wardrobe For a Year Challenge. Although I got off to a slow start with this challenge I have completed several projects ;-) I just haven't taken the time to post reviews ;-(
Without further ado here's some of the projects I've completed since joining this challenge:

New Look 6097

Pattern Description: Workroom from Project Runway, misses' belted knit dress with neckline and sleeve variations. New Look Just 4 Knits sewing pattern

Pattern Sizing: 10-22

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? 
Yes, it looks exactly like the photo.

Were the instructions easy to follow? I did not follow the instructions very closely I used my own method of construction but they are fairly straight forward.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?I love the cross over bodice, sleeve tabs, and the pockets although I don’t put anything into the pockets but a few coins due to the light weight of the fabric.

Fabric Used: An ITY Jersey purchased at JoAnn’s several years ago.Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:I added 1-1/2 inches to the bodice and 3/8 inches to the back shoulder seam. Also, I lengthened the sleeves by 1-1/2 inches and the skirt by 2 inches.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?Yes, I plan to make a third version (view A with the collar) in a ponte knit for the winter but for now I will give this pattern a rest.

Conclusion: 

I love the shape and style of this dress and will make one more version of it before I retire this pattern. I used an ITY jersey which can be tricky to work with at times. I made the fabric more manageable by spraying it with heavy starch and allowing the starch to dry which made the fabric stiff and easier to work with. I used this method on the areas that needed top stitching.

Simplicity 1613

Pattern Description: Misses' close-fitting knit tops with three sleeve options or sleeveless and a twist detail at the neckline for views A, B, and C. View D is worn off the shoulders with ¾ length sleeves or sleeveless.

Pattern Sizing: Pattern envelope sizes 4-12.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?
Yes, I believe it looks exactly like view A, which is the one I made.

Were the instructions easy to follow?
The instructions were good. This is one of the few times that I had to “play by the rules” and follow the pattern instructions.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?
Likes:
I love, love, love a shaped tee, most tee shirts are shapeless and unflattering. I consider this shirt a “fancy” tee shirt because of the shaping and the twist detail at the neckline. I really do love this pattern and plan to make each view.
Dislikes:
The twist detail is a little bulky and the construction for the twist detail is a little cumbersome so on my next version I will make modifications for to the twist detail.

Fabric Used:
Ponte knit purchased at JoAnn’s a few years ago.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:
I added 1-1/2 inches to the length and 3/8 inches to the back shoulder seam. Also, I lengthened the sleeves by 1-1/2 inches. These are my usual length adjustments to accommodate my long torso and arms. The sleeves they fall just below the elbow bend which is a little bothersome for me so on my next version I will add 3-1/2 inches to the sleeves.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?
Absolutely, I can't wait to make the other tops. The directions are straight forward and I love the style of all of the tops. This is an easy pattern even for a “newbie” with knits.

Conclusion:
I love this top it can be worn effortlessly with skirts, slacks, and jeans.

Simplicity 1613 is worn with Burda 8213 (made a few years ago)

Burda 8213

Pattern Description: A knee or ankle length 8 gore flared skirt.

Pattern Sizing: 10-24 (36-50).

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Yes.

Were the instructions easy to follow? I only glanced at the instructions briefly.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I love the fit and flare shape of this skirt.

Fabric Used: Cotton twill which was a little too stiff for this particular pattern.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: I cut a size 12 but had to remove about 1-1/2 inches from the waist. Also, I did not have enough fabric so I had to shorten the skirt (view B) by about 3 inches.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I plan to make this pattern again but with a more suitable fabric for this design.

Conclusion: An easy pattern for instant gratification.

I've decided to join the Sew Your Own Wardrobe For a Year Challenge hosted by Pattern Therapy and The Fearless Seamstress. The challenge begins on April 1, 2013 and runs until March 30, 2014.  Participants commit to ONE YEAR of building their wardrobes by sewing and avoiding the purchase of ready to wear clothing. Participants and their projects will be featured on the blog designed for this challenge and I will post a full review of my creations here on my blog. Wish me well on this journey!!
Belinda

Pattern Review~

Butterick 4985/Self-Drafted Skirt

Pattern Description: 
Misses top with sleeve and collar variations . I made view B, with the collar and collar band, and substituted the gathered sleeve with sleeve band for a long sleeve from McCall’s 5522. Pattern Sizing:
Sizes 6 to 20. I cut a size 10 with a slight alteration to the shoulder and upper chest area.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?  

For the most part it did however, I used the sleeve from McCall’s 5522 (view D) for a long-sleeved version of this blouse.
Were the instructions easy to follow?

They were very clear.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?

I love the shape and style of this blouse and I don’t have any dislikes about this pattern. This is my third version of this blouse.
Fabric Used:
I’m not sure of the fiber content but the fabric has a “crepe-like” feel.
Pattern Alterations or any design changes you made:
I added 3/8” to the back shoulder seam and 5/8” to the upper chest. Also, I added 1-1/2” to the length of the pattern.
Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?
As much as I like this pattern and would love to sew it again I tossed it after this version. I have way too many blouse/shirt patterns in my stash therefore I will not be making this pattern again but I do highly recommend it to others. It’s OOP so you’ll have to find a copy on Etsy or Ebay.
Conclusion: 
I'm very happy with this top! I love the collar and it fits great.

Self-Drafted Skirt:

After seeing Amanda's version of Simplicity 2512 I knew I had to have one of my own. At the time Simplicity patterns were not on sale and I couldn't wait until the next sale so I drafted my version of this cute and fun skirt. This is a basic skirt pattern with a contoured waistband and front drape so the drafting was fairly easy. I used a synthetic suiting fabric purchased at Hancock's several years ago. This fabric was a dream to cut and sew, no sliding on the cutting table or under the needle while stitching. I added the chain detail at the waist just for a little something extra on this basic black skirt.

Its Wild in The Jungle!!

This top is my contribution to the Jungle January challenge hosted by Pretty Grievances.  

Pattern Review~
McCall's 5709

Pattern Description: Close fitting, pull-over top in two lengths has looped (twist) front and sleeve variations. I made View A.

Pattern Sizing: Misses size 6 thru 14; I made a size 12.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Yes, exactly.

Were the instructions easy to follow? The instructions were VERY easy to follow although I didn't follow them verbatim (as I never do).J I usually modify the construction steps when I sew with commercial patterns. The first time that I sewed the area near the twist there was a little gapping so I ripped and re-stitched the twist area to eliminate the gapping. Besides that little issue the top sewed up like a dream.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I love the twist at the bust line and the sleeves on View A. I had no dislikes with the pattern.

Fabric Used: The fabric poly/lycra knit purchased at Hancock’s for $2 per yard. There was only a few yards left on the clearance table so I purchased all of it.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: I made no design changes to the pattern but I did make a small adjustment to the shoulder area by adding 3/8” to the back shoulder seam.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? Yes, I plan to sew this pattern again. Initially, I was planning to cut the shorter version (View C) but accidentally cut the tunic length so my next version will be View C with the sleeves from View A. I definitely recommend it to others however it is OOP.

Conclusion: This is a great style top/tunic that is very easy to make and I think it would flatter most figures. I highly recommend it!

Rock N' Roll Half Marathon/Army Ten Miler

Greetings Divas-

As soon as the prom and graduation festivities came to a close training for 2 major running events, the Rock N' Roll Half Marathon and the Army Ten-Miler, began to consume my time. In September Hubby and I ran the Rock N' Roll Half Marathon as a relay team--I ran the first 7.9 miles and Hubby completed the remaining 5.2 miles. With a portion of the race course along the beautiful Virginia Beach boardwalk it's quite  easy to become captivated by the scenery. On the day of the race the temperatures were in the 80's and the humidity was high so maintaining mental focus was of utmost importance. The post-race festivities took place along the boardwalk and many of the runners hung out on the beach after the race. Hubby and I decided to treat ourselves to a couples massage at Massage Envy so we didn't stick around for the post-race festivities. This is a race we definitely plan to run again but next time we'll enjoy the post-race festivities before heading off for our massages. Proceeds from the Rock N' Roll Half Marathon benefit the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. On October 21st I ran the Army Ten-Miler and this is by far has the most motivating race I've ever participated in!! This is such a popular race it is literally sold out within hours. After missing the registration for the past 2 years (last year it sold out 17 minutes before I got online to register) this year I awoke at 4:15 a.m. to register before I got ready for work. There's much to be said for determination! I was so motivated by the Wounded Warriors who participated in the Army Ten-Miler. I'm still trying to wrap my brains around their level of perseverance. Each time a Wounded Warrior was spotted in the crowd of runners, other runners and spectators would shout out words of encouragement--motivating, truly motivating. I'm already excited about running the Army Ten Miler in 2013. Army Morale, Welfare, and Recreation programs for Soldiers and their families benefit from the proceeds of this race. Below is the video clip as I'm about to cross the finish line, I'm on the far left in the pink shirt with both hands raised high in the air (and yes that's my loud mouth you hear) enjoy!

Prom: Featuring Vogue 8360 & Simplicity 1908

Greetings Sewing Divas-

I know its been way too long since the last time I posted on my blog but I've been busy swamped! The past few weeks have been spent preparing for 2 graduations and sewing special occasion projects specifically, 2 prom dresses  and an evening dress for a banquet hubby and I attended. I will post a review of the evening dress as soon as I can rein in the photographer (hubby) for an outdoor photo shoot. The first prom dress featured is Vogue 8360, made for DD's friend L, and the second prom dress featured is Simplicity 1908 made for DD (of course).

Pattern Description:

Lined dresses A, B, C have pleated inset, shoulder strap variations, hook and eye closure, skirt with gathers and invisible zipper. C: contrast inset, bodice overlay, overskirt and gathered shoulder straps.

Pattern Sizing:

6-10; the pattern runs slightly large so I cut the dress 1 size smaller than the pattern indicated for L’s bust size.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

The finished project is almost an exact replica of View C, without the straps.

Were the instructions easy to follow?

Although, I didn’t follow the instructions to the letter (I rarely do) for the most part they were fairly easy to follow. I made a muslin, which I highly recommend for anyone considering this pattern.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?

I had no dislikes whatsoever!! L was very pleased with the finished dress and I thought the design was very flattering on her. The dress was actually less complicated to construct than I originally thought it would be.

Fabric Used:

The champagne color polyester satin and lace overlay on the upper bodice were purchased at JoAnn’s Fabrics. The fabrics sewed rather well however, I know from past experience that JoAnn’s polyester satin tends to snag and stain (just from finger oils) a little more easily than polyester satin purchased from other fabric stores so I was very careful in handling it during construction.

Pattern Alterations or any design changes you made:

The bodice showed more cleavage than I thought was appropriate and the keyhole opening in the back sat too low on L’s body. To correct these issues I added ¾” to the bodice pieces (starting near the side seam) and tapering to the original pattern line at center front and I adjusted the keyhole opening by raising it 1”. Also, L wanted a strapless dress so I omitted the straps on View C. These minor adjustments worked well and the finished dressed looked very good on L.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?

Yes I would make it again and I do recommend it to others however, its not a design that is suitable to all body types but a muslin will help you determine if this design is right for you.

Conclusion: The finished dress was gorgeous and I truly enjoyed this project!!

Pattern Description: 

Misses' special occasion dress in two lengths from the Jessica McClintock pattern collection. View A has a bow detail, View B has spaghetti straps, and View C is strapless. View A and C have a sheer skirt overlay.

Pattern Sizing:

4-12

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Yes, I made View A without any design changes and it looks very much like the photo on the pattern envelope.

Were the instructions easy to follow?

Yes, the instructions were clear and easy to follow.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?

DD and I especially loved the bow detail and the ruching on the bodice.

Fabric Used:

For the bodice and bow detail I used a synthetic shantung fabric with an overlay of polyester organza to get the “look” DD desired. The remainder of the dress is constructed with polyester satin and chiffon, all fabrics were purchased at Hancock’s Fabrics.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:

I did not make any design changes or alterations, this dress was stitched right out of the envelope but I did make a muslin.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?

Yes, I would sew it again and I do recommend it to others.

Conclusion:

DD and I were very pleased with the finished dress. She received a ton of compliments on how beautiful she looked and I received a lot of compliments on the workmanship. A score for both of us!!

McCall's 6163

Pattern Description:
Close fitting, above mid-knee length knit dress with mock wrap front, gathered at left side, collar with stand, side zipper, and raglan sleeve variations.

Pattern Sizing:
Misses 8 - 16

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?
Yes, the finished garment looks exactly like the photo on the pattern envelope.

Were the instructions easy to follow?
The pattern instructions were very easy to follow. The construction is fairly basic, making this pattern an excellent choice for beginners. The only tricky part to the construction was inserting the zipper at the left side where the dress is gathered. I should have followed the advice of other reviewers and omitted the zipper. I will omit the zipper on my next version, which is already cut and waiting to be sewn.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?
Likes: I love the style and the silhouette. The construction is very straight-forward.

Dislikes: I’m not sure why the pattern included a zipper because there’s enough “wiggle” room in the design (especially being sewn in knit fabric) that slipping the dress on and off without a closure is fairly easy. Perhaps if it is sewn in a heavier knit such as ponte or doubleknit the zipper would be needed.

Fabric Used:
I used an ITY knit purchased from Fabric.com. I love this print and have enough left over to make a cute top.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:
I made view "A" but omitted the elastic on the sleeve and I made my usual length adjustment. On version #2, I will make an “in seam” adjustment through the shoulder area and omit the zipper.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?
As stated earlier, version #2 is already cut and waiting to be sewn and yes, I do recommend it to others-even beginners!!

Conclusion: 
This is a stylish and fun design that’s easy to wear. It can be sewn quickly with good results therefore a keeper for me. 

Back to my regularly scheduled programming~

Greetings sewing divas!! Now that the holidays have passed I can get back into my sewing room and start cranking out projects for 2012. But, before I forge ahead into the new year I must review the last two projects that I completed in 2011.

The jacket is a self-drafted pattern which required some tweaking because I decided to make a design change midstream (-_-) and the pants are New Look 6107 (OOP).
Pattern description:
Pants-Basic pants with tapered leg, front/back fitting darts, and side zipper.
Jacket-Wrap front with side tie and elasticized bell-shaped sleeves.
Pattern sizing:
Pants-6-16
Jacket-custom sized
Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope one you were done sewing with it?
Pants-Yes, I did not make any design modifications.
Jacket-The only photo was the image in my head which changed a few times (-_-)
Were the instructions easy to follow?
Pants-Yes, the pattern is a very basic pants pattern. The most challenging part of the pants construction was inserting the invisible zipper which took about 15-20 minutes. I constructed the pants in about 1-1/2 hrs.
Jacket-The construction of the jacket was a little more challenging and much more time consuming. Because it was a self-drafted pattern, I had no instructions to follow so I had to make up the instructions as I sewed.
What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?
Pants-I love the tapered leg of the pants and the cuff which you can't see in the photo.
Jacket-I love the wrap-front, side tie, and the bell sleeves (everything).
Fabric used:
Pants-Polyester crepe purchased at Hancock's several years ago.
Jacket-Crepe-backed satin purchased at JoAnn's several years ago.
Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:
Pants-I added 3" to the length but I did not make any design changes.
Jacket-What ended up being the lapel of the jacket was once a gathered ruffle which I did not like after I attached it to the jacket so, I pulled out the seam ripper and began the first phase of de-construction on this project. Also, I redesigned the neckline of the jacket near the lapel/collar junction with a cleverly placed dart which is completely hidden by the lapel.
Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?
Pants-Yes I would sew the pants again and I do recommend this pattern to others (if you can find it as I mentioned before its an OOP pattern).
Jacket-Yes, I plan to make the jacket again but I can't decide which fabric to use for my next version.
Conclusion: I love the whole ensemble. I wore it to hubby's Christmas party and received several compliments.