Sewing & Fashion

The Dress That Almost Wasn’t: Simplicity 8123

Hi everyone! I hope all is well with you. I am still sewing my way through the pandemic, and I have no plans to stop. Why? Because sewing keeps me sane, and with everything going on around us, we need all the sanity we can get. Have you ever been so excited about a project that you smiled the whole way through the creation process, and then BAM, you make a mistake that you can’t come back from? That is what happened to me, but I was determined to not give up.

As you can see, the dress on the left was a complete fail. I cut the dress a few sizes too large, and it just hung on me. I decided to correct it by taking away a few inches all around to get a better fit. As I began cutting with my rotary cutter, my hand slipped, and I cut right through the fabric. Ouch! I wanted to cry, because I bought the fabric at regular price, and it was not cheap. It was a midweight stretch denim from Jo-Anns, that I bought about a year ago. I was so sad about the fail that I threw the dress to the side and vowed not to touch again. However, I am proud that I came back for a second attempt and redeemed myself, because this dress is everything. Now let’s get into the details of this dress.

Pattern Used/Size Cut

I have had Simplicity 8123 for so many years, and this year I vowed to focus on using the patterns in my stash until I use them all. This pattern is definitely going to be added to my TNT (tried and true) pattern. this pattern features a dress with flared or slim skirt and faux wrap button side-front panel. The dress in this pattern has thicker straps with back zipper. It has a bodice and a skirt portion, which is great because it allows the sewer to create a variety of looks, including separates.

I cut a size 12, but initially I cut a size 14. Which is why I had the fitting issue that I discussed above. I made a Youtube video a few years ago on how to find your proper size on a pattern. Check it out.

Modifications

The only modification that I made to this pattern was adding a ruffle to the bottom of it. I did this by cutting the dress about 9″ shorter.

Next I cut a long strip of fabric 4″ long and double the width of the bottom of the skirt. I then gathered the fabric at the top edge.

Lastly, I attached the ruffle piece to the body of the dress.

I was going to hem the bottom of the ruffle, but after seeing how the raw edges looked, I decided against it. I actually love the frayed edge of the dress.

Final Thoughts

Usually for my final thought, I break down my opinions on the pattern. However, this time I want to start my final thought with a statement, because there was a big life lesson that I had to remember in the midst of creating this dress. “If at first you don’t succeed, dust yourself off and try again.” Those words can be found in my favorite Aliyah song, and it is such a significant statement for our life. No matter how many times we fail or fall, we must pick ourselves up and try again. It is very rare that anyone will succeed on the first try. It takes a few falls to master the walk.

Now back to the dress. I absolutely love this pattern. It is not a difficult sew at all, however, you must understand sewing terms and how to use the necessary notions correctly, such as interfacing. If you have any difficulty sewing this pattern, Mimi G has a tutorial on her Youtube channel. I will definitely be using this pattern over and over again, but next time I will make sure to cut the right size lol. Continue scrolling to see how I styled this dress for the bipolar fall weather we have here in Atlanta. One day it is hot, and the next it is very cool.

The zipper is supposed to go all the way to the top of the dress, but I added it before the band, and forgot to give extra inches for it to reach the top of the band. I ended up adding hook and eyes to that portion of the dress.

Thank you for taking the time to read my blog, it is very much appreciated, and I am grateful. Please subscribe to my blog and comment below to let me know what you think.

Quote of the Day: Your doubts create mountains, but your actions move them. (Mel Robbins)

DIY Maxi Dress: Birthday Blues

Hi everyone! I hope all is well with you. It is officially September and I am so very excited because it is my birthday month and National Sewing Month. With everything going on in 2020, I look forward to things I can celebrate.

To celebrate my birthday this month and to incorporate some sewing into my celebration, I am creating a collection in my favorite color, blue. I will be sharing that collection here on the blog and on my Instagram page. It will be a shaded of blue collection. It will also be my end of the summer collection. Let’s get to the first garment in my blue collection, my DIY maxi dress. Side note* There will be a tutorial on my YouTube channel on Friday.

Fabric Used

For this project, I used a Fashion Navy Liverpool Solid Knit from LA Finch Fabrics. It is a medium weight textured stretchy poly spandex knit. It is similar to a scuba/techno knit. It also has a 4 way stretch, 70% stretch across the grain, vertical stretch: 30%.

I also used a Famous Maker Power Mesh Navy Solid Knit for the overlay of the dress. It is from LA Finch as well. This fabric is a nylon spandex power mesh with a 4-way stretch. It is typically used for swimwear, performance costumes, and athleisure fashion. However, I saw something more in it, and thought it would be perfects as an overlay.

Pattern Used/Size Cut

I decided to use a tried and true pattern for this project, the Sunny Dress pattern from Friday Pattern Company. Unfortunately, I went to the Friday Pattern Company website, and I no longer see this pattern on there. However, for the tutorial, you are able to use any standard fitted knit dress pattern that you own.

Modifications

There was a few hacks done on this pattern in order create this gorgeous dress. As I said above, I will be posting a video tutorial on my Youtube channel, which will have more information on how I hacked this pattern. Make sure that you subscribe to my youtube channel, and are following me on Instagram, so that you will know when that tutorial is live.

Final Thoughts

I absolutely love what I have done with this pattern. It further proves that a pattern is merely a foundation, a start, to what is in your imagination. I often have so many designs in my mind, and many times, I find an existing pattern that brings my ideas to life. I truly hope that you love what I have done, and that it has inspired you as well. I hope that you like the photos down below, my kind husband took them. Since it’s my birthday month, I wanted to get really nice photos that I can frame.

Thank you all for taking the time to read my blog, I truly appreciate it. I hope that this blog was informative and that you learned something that will help you in your next sewing project. Comment below and let me know your thoughts or questions. Also, please make sure to subscribe to my blog.

Quote of the Day: Don’t talk, just act. Don’t say, just show. Don’t promise, just prove.

DIY Hack: Simplicity 9150

Hi everyone! I hope all is well. I have news, I have decided to restart my fitness journey, and I have been so sedentary since this pandemic has started that I fear falling back in my old ways. However, I plan to take steps to keep myself motivated, as I need to take care of my body, from the inside out. I am done making excuses, and ready to make changes (wow, that sentence sounded like something form a weight loss infomercial.) Well, I figured that a great way to stay motivated is to create fun athletic wear that may inspire me to get up and start moving. I mean, if I have to work out, I can at least do it in something cute right? The athletic outfit that I am sharing with you all today is just what I needed to get my workout mojo working.

Fabric Used

For this project, I used a Santa Maria Abstracta Swim/Performance Wear Knit from LA Finch Fabrics. This fabric is a premium quality swim/performance wear knit! with a Slight sheen. It is 82% nylon and 18% spandex. It also has a width of 57″/58.” This fabric is smooth to the touch and also has quite a bit of drape to it. It is also lightweight, but opaque. What drew me to this fabric is the geometric print, It is very unique and colorful.

Pattern Used/Size Cut

I used Simplicity 9150 by Mimi G. It is a jumpsuit with wrap front & self-tie with a pull-on knit mini skirt. As with most Simplicity patterns, I had to adjust the sizes. My bust is 36″, waist is 30″, and my hip is 38.” Per the envelope, I was instructed to cut a size 16, however, I cut a size 10 as it is the size that fits best. For the length, I cut a size 12 length for my 5’3″ frame. Other than the normal sizing issue, the pattern is wonderful.

Modifications

This the fun part, because I get to share with you how I hacked this pattern. Thought I love the design of the pattern, I did not want my stomach out. Therefore, I decided to switch the front and the back. Yes, you read that correctly, the front is now the back, and the back is now the front.

The back pattern piece is one whole pattern piece. I wanted to make the back piece the front piece, and the back piece the front piece. These are the steps I took to do so.

I laid out pattern drafting paper on my cutting table.
Next I laid the back pattern piece onto the drafting paper, and then I laid the front pattern pieces on top of it.
I then drew new lines for the new front piece onto the pattern paper by tracing it from the original front pieces that is on the top. As you can see by the photo above, I also shortened the neckline for the new front. I did not want the front neckline to dip as low as it does in the back. We do not want any peek-a-boo accidents, Lol.
So that I do not cut my pattern pieces, I used a tracing wheel to trace the new front pattern piece onto the drafting paper, and then I cut my new front piece out.

I did the same thing for the new back pieces, except, I traced the new back pants line by laying the front pants on to the original back pants portion. I lined it up evenly, and traced it to make a new back pants piece.
For the new back bodice, I did not traced any new lines like I did for the new front piece. I cut the original front bodice separately by using the tracing wheel to make new lines on the drafting paper. Remember that by the end, the wrap bodice should be in the back and the back piece will now be in the front.
Once you cut your pieces, then you can cut your fabric and follow the instructions on the pattern to finish your garment. Just make sure that you use the instructions for the back on the front and vice-versa.

These two side by side photos are of the pieces laying on top of the originals so that you can see how they line up just right with the original pieces they were modified from. Continue below so that you can see the new pattern pieces side by side with their originals.

**The new front piece next to the original front pattern pieces.**

The new back pieces next to the original back pattern pieces.

Final Thoughts

Simplicity 9150 is for those who not only want comfortable, self made athletic or athleisure wear, but also want it to be stylish and modern. I absolutely love this pattern, and when I feel more comfortable showing my midriff, I will definitely make it the way it was intended. However, for now I will continue having fun hacking it. I must also mention that I love that there is a skirt option in the pattern. I think that it would be very cute to pair the bodice with the skirt for a fun day out look or use a more dressy fabric to create a night time look. I think I feel another idea for this pattern coming on. Stay tuned. Do you guys see the cute headband that I made with the fabric scraps? With fabric this fabulous, you must make the most of it.

Quote of the Day: Be good to people for no reason.

DIY Looks: The Pixie Tee and Dress

Hi everyone! I hope all is well with you. Through all that is going on in our world today, it is so important to have an outlet. For myself and many of you, sewing has been an outlet. I don’t know about you, but I am sewing and wearing my garments to the store, mailbox, and around the house. Who says you cant put on cute clothes to stay home? Speaking of cute clothes, today I am going to be talking about a new favorite pattern that will definitely be in my me made rotation, the Pixie tee and dress pattern by Chalk & Notch.

Fabric Used

I have discovered a new fabric paradise, Stone Mountain Fabrics. Their selection is amazing. The fabric that I used for my top is a Cotton/Lycra Yarn Dyed Stripe – Orange/Green/Blue. It is a midweight knit with a width of 60” and a 80% stretch.

For my dress, I used a Cotton Jersey Print – Faces – Grey/Cream (I checked the website, and this fabric is currently not in stock.)

Pattern Used

For this project, I used the Pixie Tee & Dress Pattern by Chalk and Notch. To say I love this pattern would be an understatement. It is a PDF pattern that ranges from size 0-18. You can print at home or send off to a copy shop. Knit is the most suitable fabric for this pattern, however, if you are a knowledgeable sewist, I’m sure that you can use woven fabrics as well. You will have to cut on the bias or add a zipper if you decide to do so. The pattern has two views that offer a dress option. View A is an oversized short sleeve tee with gathered hem ties, and view B has long sleeves with a hem band. I love that the pattern pieces are interchangeable, it allows for more versatility.

Size Cut

My bust is 36”, waist is 30”, and hip is 38”, so I cut a size 10. I did not make any adjustments, as I like the way it fits.

Modifications

For the top, I shortened the length by about 2.5”, added elastic inside of the casing instead of attaching the elastic to the drawstring as the instruction states, and stitched the side ties on the outside of each side seam.

For the dress, I added a gathered sleeve detail to the top of the sleeve, because I wanted to add an extra feature and use up the fabric. As you can see, I even used scraps of the fabric to make a headband.

Final Thoughts

To say that I love this pattern is an understatement. I had no fitting issues with this pattern, but that is just my experience. Your body makeup, as well as how you like your garments to fit will determine the adjustments you will need to make. The thing I love most is that the options that this pattern provides will allow me to create it through every season. Be on the lookout for more versions of this to come from me.

One small positive thought in the morning can change your whole day.

DIY Summer Looks: Jessica Dress & New Look 6456

Hi everyone. I hope that all is well with you. With everything going on, I truly needed a getaway with the family. When life gets hectic, it is always so good to just get in the car and go somewhere, even if it’s just a few miles away. We rented a house in Cape Coral, Florida, and it was beautiful. Though we pretty much stayed in due to Corona Virus, it wasn’t too bad. The kids loved having a pool to jump into everyday, and I loved that the home sat on the water, and I was able to sit on the dock, relax, and take time to reflect on things.

I must say that one of the highlights of my trip was opening my suitcase and seeing that all the clothes I brought was memade, and today I am going to talk about two of those makes and the amazing fabrics that helped bring them to life. Continue reading because there’s a little surprise at the end to say thank you.

Fabric Used

For my recent DIY fashion pieces, I used two amazing fabrics from LA Finch. The first is a Cone Mill Textured Chambray shirting. It is a lightweight 100% cotton with a slight drape. It’s perfect for dresses or shirts.

I also used the Cone Mills Non-Stretch Fashion Denim Burgundy. It is also a 100% non-stretch cotton. It is a bit rigid, but softens a little after a wash.

Pattern Used

For the gorgeous summer chambray dress, I used the Jessica dress pattern by Mimi G. Let me start by saying that the Jessica dress is the best summer dress pattern, and that is a fact. If you don’t believe me, search the hashtag on Instagram. It is a button up dress with a sweetheart bodice. It also has large pockets, which did not make it on my dress because I did not finish it in time to bring it on my vacation. I do plan to add it now that I am home.

For the burgundy denim wrap skirt, I used New Look 6456. There are four length options, maxi, knee length, midi, and mini. The midi and knee length has side patch pockets. I sewed the mini version and added patch pockets to this view to give it a little character, and I am glad I did because I love it even more. I have had this pattern for years and have used it a few times, but never thought about using denim fabric to make it. I am actually happy with the outcome.

Size cut

For the Jessica dress, I cut a size medium for my 36 bust, 30 waist, and 38 hips. For the New Look pattern, I cut a size 14.

Modifications

For the Jessica dress, I did not make any modifications other than using snaps instead of buttons. It’s one of those patterns that you love as is.

For the New Look wrap skirt, I changed the length so that it would fit my 5’3” frame. In order for my skirt to fit the length of view C, I had to cut view D. I also added the pockets to view D.

Final Thoughts

Let’s start with the Jessica dress. Lately I have been sewing up more indie patterns than I usually do, and I must say that I can see why people love them so much. The instructions are well written and the sizing is spot on. There are even tips on sizing and storing your pattern. For the New Look pattern, it was truly an easy make. I have made it a few times, so I have the fit already set. However, when it comes to the big four, sizing can be a hit or miss. Alterations are often necessary with the big four patterns. I will say that I do love both patterns and I have and will sew it again.

Thank you all for taking the time to read my blog, I truly appreciate it. Here is a 15% discount for any of the fabrics in this blog post, which has been restocked on the LA Finch Fabrics website. The discount is for a 1 time use, and cannot be combined with any other discounts. It expires July 31st, 2020 11:59PM PST CODE: SUMMERSEWING15

I hope that this blog was informative and that you learned something that will help you in your next sewing project.

I am grateful for the good in my life. -Unknown author.

DIY Dress With Pockets: The Olive Dress Pattern

Hi everyone, I hope all is well with you. This week is a week of relaxation for me and my family. We escaped to a little getaway in Florida, and are just enjoying the ocean view and relaxing atmosphere. The one thing that has made this trip better is the fact that every clothing that I brought with me was made by me. I finally have a wardrobe that is filled with casual and chic pieces that I can wear anywhere. There is a new favorite piece of me made clothing in there that I have already worn twice since I made it a week ago. What is it you may ask, it’s a dress that I made using Megan Nielsen’s newly released Olive top and dress pattern (cue the sound of excited people cheering).

Let me give you all a little warning before diving into this post. When you purchase this pattern, be warned that you will want to make it over and over again. Don’t say that I didn’t warn you. Lol! Now let’s get into the details of this amazing pattern.

Pattern Used

The Olive is a top and dress pattern with a relaxed fit, meaning it fits looser than regular, but not baggy. There are three views that you can choose from. View A is a blouse, view B is a dress with a sleeve band, and view C is a long sleeve blouse. All views have a v-insert that is stitched inside of the front bodice. It has a drop shoulder with two sleeve finishes for the dress or top. There is also an optional breast patch pocket, which I did add to my dress. I sewed view B.

Fabric Used

I used a mustard and fuchsia abstract cotton twill fabric from Mood Fabrics. This fabric 100% cotton, 57″ wide. The background color is white sand. It has a slight stretch to it as well. I have had this fabric for a year. I bought it during a sale, as Mood can be quite expensive, so I usually try to catch the sales and load up on fabrics that is usually more expensive at regular price. Right now, this fabric is $4.99 per yard, it is usually $15.99 per yard.

Size Cut

This pattern ranges from size 0-20, but I cut a size 12 as I am a 36 bust, 30 waist, and 38 in the hip.

Modifications

I only made a few modifications. I shortened the length by about 2 inches because I am 5’3″ so most patterns are often very long on me. I also cut a size smaller in the bodice to get a better fit. I will admit that I am a serial hacker of patterns, I often find something to hack on most patterns. However, with this pattern, I love it just the way that it is.

Final Thoughts on the Olive Top and Dress Pattern by Megan Nielsen

I am a very honest reviewer, and if there was any criticism to give to this pattern I would. However, I have none. The sizing is just right, at least for me, and the instructions are so easy to follow and understand. I love that Megan gives tips on what to do before you start your project. For example, she she shares a tip on how to store your pattern after you use it. I also love that there is also ideas for customizing your make. This pattern is truly for those who want something easy to sew but allows room for making it your own. I love the comfort and style of this pattern very much, so needless to say, I will be making this again and again.

Thank you all for taking the time to read my blog, I truly appreciate it. I hope that it was informative and that you learned something that will help you in your next sewing project. Please comment below with any questions or comments that you may I have. I will definitely respond quickly. Also, do not forget to subscribe.

In every day, there are 1,440 minutes. That means we have 1,440 daily opportunities to make a positive impact.
-Les Brown

DIY Wrap Dress: The Romy Wrap Top and Dress

Hi everyone, I hope all is well with you. It has been so rainy here in Atlanta, however, I went outside and sat on my patio, and just enjoyed the rainy air. There is something about the look of the trees and the smell of the air after it rains that I love. I am so excited to write about a new pattern that I have added to my “favorite pattern” box. I was asked to test a new pattern for Pattern Scout, and boy did I learn a lot. Because of this pattern testing opportunity, I have gained so much respect and adoration for the designer, Casey Sibley. She took our feedback so seriously, and also made sure to take our suggestions and implement it into the pattern. She made us feel that our opinions were so very important, that is the kind of character and business mindset that will make me want to spend money and buy patterns. Also, her patterns are amazing and so well designed.

Pattern Used

The Romy Wrap Top and Dress

The Romy is a blousey wrap top or dress pattern with pleat details and 3/4″ sleeves, button or snap closure on the sleeve cuffs and on the sides of the dress to close the wrap. There is a peplum and a knee-length wrap dress version with a curved high-low hemline. I made the dress version, because I need more summer dresses in my closet. I absolutely love this pattern because it not only instructs you on how to put the garment together, it also covers different techniques such as gathering, sewing pleats, installing plackets, flat felled sleeves, etc. If you are not a novice sewer, you will definitely learn a few finishing and sewing techniques while constructing this pattern.

Fabric Used

I used a plaid lightweight cotton that I have had in my stash for about a year. I purchased it from a local fabric warehouse in Atlanta called Fine Fabrics.

Size Cut

The pattern ranges from sizes 0-30 with options for B,C, or D cup bust sizes. I cut a size 10 B cup. I honestly did not have to make any alterations. I didn’t have to shorten the length of my dress to fit my 5″3 frame. I love the fit of the dress and the cut of it as well.

Modifications

No modifications were made, as I was testing for the company, so I made it as is. However, I do plan on playing around with the length and doing a small modification in the near future.

Final Thoughts on the Romy top and Dress Pattern

I believe that this pattern is a classic style that will stand the test of time. The fact that there is a top and dress version so that sewers can be versatile with their looks makes me love it even more. I believe that this pattern is for intermediate to advanced sewers due to some of the details that you are asked to create in this pattern. However, I feel that with the glossary and wonderful instructions that are provided in this pattern, beginners can even try their hands at it. Please do use a muslin first though.

There is a bloused back design on the bodice

“If you can’t fly then run, if you can’t run then walk, if you can’t walk then crawl. But whatever you do, you have to keep moving forward.”

-Martin Luther King

DIY Separates: McCalls 8047 Hack

Hi everyone! I hope all is well with you. The weather here in Atlanta has been very pleasant, but this weekend, the heat came with a vengeance once the morning turned into afternoon. All in all, it has been beautiful here. I think that Mother Nature has been very happy considering there are not many cars on the roads pushing out pollutants into the air. Many people staying home seems to have been positive for the environment. Now that we have gotten the small talk out of the way, let’s get into why I am writing this blog post today, McCalls 8047 #ediemccalls. This blog post is very honest and not meant to sway anyone’s feelings on the said pattern, I am just giving my honest opinion on my experience working with this pattern. Continue reading for the breakdown.

Pattern Used

I used McCalls 8047 jumpsuit pattern. There are three views to this pattern, off the shoulder, strapless, and wrap front and back bodice. There is also a shorts, pants, and elastic cuffed leg view. The required fabric is a moderate stretch knit and tricot knit for the lining.

Size Cut

I have been using McCalls patterns for years, and after a few trial and errors, I came to understand sizing and fit for the big fours. If you are interested in seeing what I learned, check out this Youtube video of pattern sizing. Since I figured out what size works for me in the big four, I have been cutting the same size for years, without any issues. I honestly rarely use a muslin to test unless I am planning to hack the pattern in some way, however, I do try on as I sew. I have since gained a few pounds, but my measurements have not gone up much. Now I cut between two sizes. For knits, I cut a 12, and for wovens, I cut between a 12 and 14 for bodices, and a 14 for bottoms in McCalls. For Simplicity and Vogue patterns, I cut a 14 for knits, and between a 14 and 16 for wovens. For Butterick and the other big for family, I often use muslin, because their sizing is way off. My bust is 36, my waist is 29, and my hip is a 39. For this pattern, I cut a size 14 because I was using a moderate stretch ponte knit. I knew that because of the cut of the pattern and the medium weight of the fabric, I needed to go up a size.

Modifications

I originally cut this pattern as a jumpsuit, but I was not a fan of it after I tried it on. It was so difficult to pull on, as it needed a zipper for the size I cut for the bodice, but I did not cut the back bodice for a zipper. For it to go on as it was meant to without a zipper, I would have had to cut between a 16 and 18 for the bodice and keep the pants at a 14. The pattern does call for elastic to be placed at the neckline/shoulder area, which would have been fine, if I knew that the sizing on this pattern would be off, and had cut a larger size. Since I cut the pattern at a 14, which was also the suggested size on the back of the envelope, the shoulder area fit good and snug, which was a part of the problem in pulling it on. I decided that the best decision was to turn it into separates, that way I could just pull the top over my head and pull the pants on. If it were a dress pattern, I would have no complaints at all, because I would be able to pull it over my head instead of having to worry about pulling it on through the neckline. In order to turn this pattern into separates, I had to look for scraps to use as a band to lengthen the top, and I had to cut about three inches off of the pants waistline to make a waistband for it. I had extra fabric, but I had already used it to make a top that I love. If I knew ahead of time that I was going to turn this pattern into separates, I would have just lengthened the bodice, and cut a wider waistband for the pants. However, sometimes you have to take the lemons you are given, and make lemonade. That is what I did, because I do like it as separates, it just sucks that the finishes are not as good looking as I would’ve like.

Final Thoughts on McCalls 8047

This all comes down to a sizing issue, which is something that the “Big Four” has been struggling with for a long time. It just sucks, because I had my sizing down, and now moving forward I will have to go back to using muslin first to be safe, because I do not want to waste good fabric due to creator sizing errors. I do not like the way the top looks, I preferred it to be longer, and I do not like the band on it (I had to do what I had to do though). The pants is okay, but I would’ve wanted the waist a bit higher. To be honest, this is a very cute pattern, and I believe that if it were not for the sizing issues, I would have made a jumpsuit that I love instead of separates that I just like. Since I do have this pattern, and I now know what needs to be done, I will make it again with the correct adjustments for the bodice.

The band for the top is wider than the waistband for the pants 😦

The Brighter Side

Do you remember the extra fabric that I spoke of earlier on in this post? Well, I made a top out of it that I absolutely love. The pattern that I used is McCalls 7722 Which is one of my TNT patterns. I love this pattern so much. I cut view D, but omitted the lower half of the sleeeve, and cut a two inch band to add to the gathered bottom of the sleeve. I will definitely be wearing this top with the pants I made above, and with other pieces in my closet. I am truly happy that I made this top.

Thank you guys so much for taking the time to read my blog. I know that this one was a little longer than my usual, but I had a lot to say, lol. Please comment below and let me know if you have used this pattern, and your experience with M8047. Also, don’t forget to subscribe to my blog so that you will be alerted when I post new content. Have a blessed day.

“Chances are when you fall asleep with a prayer of gratitude on your lips, you’ll wake up with a song of joy in your heart.”

Spring Dress: McCalls 8035

Hi everyone! I hope all is well with you. Like many of you, I am still staying home and staying safe. I miss the simple pleasures like walking through the mall, and getting inspired by all of the beautiful clothes in the stores. However, we are living in a digital age, and we can now window shop online. The dress that I made was inspired by a dress that I saw at the mall last summer. For me, patterns are foundations, and you can get as creative as you would like with the little details that you create to make a design your own.

Fabric Used

The fabric that I used to make this beautiful dress is a denim blue floral rayon challis from LA Finch Fabrics. The width is 55″ and it has a lot of drape. There is also a slight stretch to it. It is lightweight, but not very sheer. It is perfect for dresses, tops, flowy pants, and lining to a jacket.

Pattern Used

I used McCalls 8035 #brynnmccalls pattern, which was the chosen pattern for the monthly Sew Your View challenge I have been following on Instagram. The pattern has three different views, and I chose to make view C, but I used the tulip sleeve from view A. This dress has a wrap front bodice, elastic raised waist, and comes with sleeve variations to choose from. You can create the tulip sleeve or the elastic hem puff sleeve.

Size Cut/Needle and Stitch Used

The pattern ranges from XS-M and L-XL. I cut a small, with no pattern adjustments. A long time ago, I learned how to find my right size on the pattern. I made a YouTube video a couple of years ago. Check it out to find out how to choose the right pattern size for you. I used a size 10 universal needle and sewed with a stitch length of 2.0. The fabric is lightweight, so you will need to use a small stitch length to prevent pulling and gathering.

Modifications

This is the fun part of this project. I love the design of the #brynnmccalls dress, however, I decided to add a little detail to make it my own. I found a beautiful lace trim at Jo-Anns, and added it to the slit and along the hem of the dress. Next I cut a piece of the fabric 140 inches long, created a 5/8″ narrow hem, and gathered it. I then added it to the end of the dress. Ialso sewed the dress with a French seam, and finished the unfinished seams with bias tape. The inside is just as nice as the outside.

Pattern Review

I absolutely love this pattern. Once you get an understanding of how to cut your correct size, everything else is pretty simple. This is not technically a beginners pattern, as there are certain terms and directions that may trip you up. However, if you want to take a stab at it, google and Youtube is your best friend. The directions are easy to follow, but there are certain techniques that you may want to add to create a cleaner garment. For me, it was the bias tape binding and lace that I added to the fabric.

That moment you think that you feel something crawling on you 😂

Thank you for taking the time to read my blog post, I really appreciate it.

Quote of the Day

“Love yourself first, because that’s who you’ll be spending the rest of your life with.”

The Birthday Jacket: Simplicity 8843

Hi everyone! I hope all is well with you. We are going through trying times, and many of us are struggling to get used to a new way of living. We are quarantined in our homes, and we can not gather with family and friends. Even as a homebody, not being able to gather with family and close friends is what I struggle with getting used to.. As upsetting as it is, we can all be grateful for our health and piece of mind.

My daughter’s birthday was on April 10. The day was not spent the way she had hoped, but she made the best out of the situation. Due to her beautiful attitude, I was determined to give her an amazing gift. What is more amazing than something that is custom made?

Fabric Used

I found a green camouflage twill fabric at Hobby Lobby a while back, before they were closed. I am so glad that I found it when I did, because when my daughter told me that she wanted a camo jacket, all I had to do was pull it from my stash. The width of the fabric is 58.” It is lightweight and 100% cotton.

Pattern Used

For this pattern, I used Simplicity 8843 Anorak jacket pattern. The pattern offers four different views to choose from. It also features optional hood with zip-front closure and pocket variations.

I sewed view B with view A pockets.

Size Cut

The pattern ranges from size XXS-XXL. I cut a XXS for my daughter. It was a little big, but she wanted me to keep it that way. In the end, it was a good decision keep it a little large, she will have room to grow into it. Who wants to spend that much time sewing something for someone, for it to only fits for a short amount of time? Not me.

Modifications

I made my own twill tape out of fabric for the cord that is placed in the casing at the waist area, and cut a shorter length, because the suggested length was entirely too long for me. I also added a lining to the jacket and sleeves. Slip stitching the facing on the inside of the jacket is something that I did because I did not want to topstitch the outside. I felt the slip stitching made it look cleaner than it did with the topstitching lines on the outside of the jacket. I choose to use a yellow cotton fabric that I had in my stash because yellow is my daughter’s favorite color.

I ordered a cord stopper, but it was taking so long to get here that I decided to improvise by tying a knot on the end of the fabric until the stopper gets here.

I would have liked to use a thread that matched the color of the lining, but it would have looked strange along the outside against the camouflage fabric.

Pattern Review

This was my first time making a anorak jacket, and I must say that I loved every minute of it. The pattern was pretty easy, and the instructions were easy to follow. I love that the instructions also has definitions of certain terms for those whom are beginners. The sizing on the envelope said the I should cut a extra small. However, the correct size for me to cut for my daughter was the XXS. Many of the big four patterns are off when it comes to sizing. Simplicity, New Look, and Burda are usually on point with their sizing, with simplicity only being off by about two inches. I made a Youtube video about two years ago on how to find your correct pattern size about two years ago, check it out.

Thank you guys for taking the time to read my blog. It means so much to me. I hope that it was helpful and inspiring. Do not forget to follow my blog so that you will stay up to date on new content post. Have a wonderful and blessed day.

Quote of the Day

“The best thing you can do for yourself is live a life that is fulfilling, and do all the things that make you happy.”