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.