tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17337224035868105552024-03-05T23:49:37.464-05:00 sew rachel!sew rachel!http://www.blogger.com/profile/06569084994328220284noreply@blogger.comBlogger121125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1733722403586810555.post-77199569834823718552016-01-06T08:00:00.000-05:002016-01-06T08:00:14.903-05:00handmade presents: a tie for my brother Many years ago I made a purple paisley brocade tie for my grandfather. It was probably the best item I've every made. It looked AWESOME and he wore it often! One of the last things we did together last summer was pick out some new fabric for a purple paisley dress vest. I couldn't find a fabric quite as nice as that original, but he decided on a pastel paisley brocade. He passed away a few weeks later, and was buried in that original handmade tie, so I decided to use that fabric to make a new tie for my brother.<br />
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I had already bought the vest pattern, <a href="http://www.simplicity.com/p-2185-boys-and-men-vests-and-ties.aspx" target="_blank">Simplicity 4762</a>, which also had a tie pattern included. The pattern was straightforward and enjoyable to sew (I particularly enjoyed hand basting all the fold lines), but I found the angles to form the points didn't line up well along the fold lines and the interfacing was wider than the fold lines it was supposed to fit in between. Granted, that could also be do to some stretching on my part of the bias cut fabric.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>The pattern is cut from two main pieces, sewn on an angle in the middle.</i></td></tr>
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Afterwards I decided to make something fun to match for his wife. I have a fun little covered button kit, turning them into post earring instead of buttons. The fabric was thick, and frayed awful, so it took quite a bit of finagling to get them to come together. Worth it, I think!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Sorry for the blurry picture... but as you can see, they are super cute!</i></td></tr>
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<br />sew rachel!http://www.blogger.com/profile/06569084994328220284noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1733722403586810555.post-47785533499830124152015-12-25T12:00:00.000-05:002015-12-25T12:00:01.076-05:00handmade presents: tiny cacti pin-cushions!Merry Christmas and happy celebrations of all kinds! Now that presents have been gifted at my house, I can finally show you what I've been making for other's over the last few (more than few) months. First up, these RIDICULOUSLY CUTE TINY CACTI PIN-CUSHIONS! I saw the tutorial <a href="http://www.abeautifulmess.com/2015/07/cactus-pincushion-diy.html" target="_blank">here</a> on the <a href="http://www.abeautifulmess.com/" target="_blank"><i>A Beautiful Mess</i></a> blog, so you can make some,too!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuVsFIVbaTqFEwilWrfcxqH-mZlcBCMMC75LpH5RGB66CMAbelyYhgipqO7Hla3ZWiW7F_EZs6Kcw1wDH9kHEMwFNqogU4XEIKu3lBarD9DQ5hoyXEW86jKR30Sr7lzlJPcIMOt7OIThGg/s1600/FullSizeRender+%252810%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuVsFIVbaTqFEwilWrfcxqH-mZlcBCMMC75LpH5RGB66CMAbelyYhgipqO7Hla3ZWiW7F_EZs6Kcw1wDH9kHEMwFNqogU4XEIKu3lBarD9DQ5hoyXEW86jKR30Sr7lzlJPcIMOt7OIThGg/s400/FullSizeRender+%252810%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>One for my mom, and my sister, and my gramma..... and one for me :)</i></td></tr>
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<br />sew rachel!http://www.blogger.com/profile/06569084994328220284noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1733722403586810555.post-35072853975903653702015-09-28T13:44:00.000-04:002015-09-28T13:44:28.478-04:00scout dress success!Hello sewing world! I've actually made a couple of items in the past month, but have been bad about photographing and blogging them. BUT here is my latest make which I'm very pleased with: a <a href="http://shop.grainlinestudio.com/products/scout-tee" target="_blank">Grainline Scout </a>DRESS!<br />
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I really liked the fit of <a href="http://sewrachel.blogspot.com/2015/07/scout-tee-success.html" target="_blank">my first Scout Tee</a>, and it is so easy to make with only 4 pattern pieces and no darts. I just lengthened the hemline, continuing the slight A-line of the side seams. I made this in a polyester crepe-like-fabric, which is medium weight and just the tiniest bit spongy. I actually used the wrong side as my right side. The "right side" had a little too much sheen, and the wrong side was a lovely matte black. I think the matte side looks like a much more expensive fabric, and way more wearable day to day. It was great to sew with, although it didn't hold a press well at all. My first hem was about an inch, which without being able to press a nice edge just puffed out and looked awful. I unpicked it and did a narrow hem that came out beautifully, as it did on the sleeves. It's funny how you learn that each fabric has it's own preferences in how it wants to be handled and finished.</div>
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I had a hard time getting the neck facing to fit all the way around, so you can seem some puckering (but no gathers!) in the back. It turns out, I had cut the facing two sizes smaller! Oops! Well, it doesn't bother me enough to unpick it at this point, because overall this was a very successful dress!<br />
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<br />sew rachel!http://www.blogger.com/profile/06569084994328220284noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1733722403586810555.post-30268236531032033542015-08-23T17:53:00.000-04:002015-08-23T17:53:00.119-04:00stuff i've made for my sisterHello again! Today is a quick post to show you a couple things I've made for my sister in Philly. She always sends me pictures of what I send her, so I hope she doesn't mind that I share them with you! This first is a picture of something I didn't sew, but did design and screenprint as part of my <a href="http://filbertandmaggie.com/" target="_blank">Filbert & Maggie line</a>:<br />
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She sent it too me, because someone told her she looked like a Mainer today with her Maggie May t-shirt, jeans and Birkenstocks. Well, she is from Maine...</div>
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The other picture is another <a href="http://mccallpattern.mccall.com/m6744-products-46524.php?page_id=96" target="_blank">McCalls 6744</a>. I made her a <a href="http://sewrachel.blogspot.com/2014/07/best-sister-ever.html" target="_blank">feather-print version</a> for her birthday last summer, and she wears it all the time so she asked me to make her another. This time I used some polyester (I think?) knit fabric I had in my stash. It has a black lace print, which was just the perfect scale for this dress. This pattern is super easy to sew, with only 4 pattern pieces and about 3 hours start to finish. For her, it fits perfect right out of the envelope... I don't even have to alter the hem length. </div>
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sew rachel!http://www.blogger.com/profile/06569084994328220284noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1733722403586810555.post-55538159854181136532015-08-17T18:50:00.001-04:002015-08-17T18:52:21.585-04:00inside a papercut printed patternHello again! I've got<a href="http://sewrachel.blogspot.com/2015/07/inside-tilly-and-buttons-printed-pattern.html" target="_blank"> another neat independent pattern</a> to share with you today, this time from <a href="http://papercutpatterns.com/" target="_blank">Papercut Patterns</a>! I'll admit, I've not really considered purchasing their patterns before, in part because of the $25 (NZD) price tag and also... I'm not a big fan of their styling in their pattern photos. It's just not my vibe... but after a lot of though on what to make with my fabulous Italian silk splurge, and with their free international shipping and a favorable USD to NZD exchange rate, suddenly I found myself with a beautiful, <a href="http://papercutpatterns.com/products/midsummer-nights-dream" target="_blank">Papercut Patterns Midsummer Night's Dream Dress</a> pattern! Want to see what one of these looks like? Take a peek!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3sPw3t6yfmSWx4LV2sl7JJyoynCzqZsd8VR3kxnq5DQGHARiB19xblPjfMfjoj1HUghmWTWMYVxf4afN329sBuQx4I4U6h_7jknZ34pC9i9JAySIgl394aHZh3X2MD1qRa8zOT3TjcxXK/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3sPw3t6yfmSWx4LV2sl7JJyoynCzqZsd8VR3kxnq5DQGHARiB19xblPjfMfjoj1HUghmWTWMYVxf4afN329sBuQx4I4U6h_7jknZ34pC9i9JAySIgl394aHZh3X2MD1qRa8zOT3TjcxXK/s320/FullSizeRender.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here is how it arrived, all the way from New Zealand!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizhM3daVk98JCxX2Dctm8vZuSdzb80tUI0w1np1cpUGJ3dZ6LTpHG9xw-jvTzX1LzeSHqHwTL_DI92mB8V7214uyX5rbi2At_1fCFwUf862k86UcKTU02oY6QJNZOEOqAmCEelWVvrIszP/s1600/FullSizeRender+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizhM3daVk98JCxX2Dctm8vZuSdzb80tUI0w1np1cpUGJ3dZ6LTpHG9xw-jvTzX1LzeSHqHwTL_DI92mB8V7214uyX5rbi2At_1fCFwUf862k86UcKTU02oY6QJNZOEOqAmCEelWVvrIszP/s320/FullSizeRender+%25281%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Back</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbkDz3M4VWC7zhp_Bfohix1rXwOdA5_6hRVjKbbdHumaH4B0TxSr7FipVAA9kzfdmwFjnk4UQr2cS4ZWdGTNuNkKSnMwLLkkdfeJTdS0bDvIYHas7cdo9fRjkj01HmAyq81irHI28CtrPZ/s1600/FullSizeRender+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbkDz3M4VWC7zhp_Bfohix1rXwOdA5_6hRVjKbbdHumaH4B0TxSr7FipVAA9kzfdmwFjnk4UQr2cS4ZWdGTNuNkKSnMwLLkkdfeJTdS0bDvIYHas7cdo9fRjkj01HmAyq81irHI28CtrPZ/s320/FullSizeRender+%25282%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Front</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0cQI7CWUoMbdGA-KIEmTJdxVu8rkVTPKGaDAPUaCD5u5sKJiqpWTIyyPC0Lu7a8Lgw8XeRb2HoXx5vSWGArIjqI-DvXYMfQWFLO8YpblUY0kLDfCMY20XwAFZKusxzprPdkuSZB87QcKX/s1600/FullSizeRender+%25283%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0cQI7CWUoMbdGA-KIEmTJdxVu8rkVTPKGaDAPUaCD5u5sKJiqpWTIyyPC0Lu7a8Lgw8XeRb2HoXx5vSWGArIjqI-DvXYMfQWFLO8YpblUY0kLDfCMY20XwAFZKusxzprPdkuSZB87QcKX/s320/FullSizeRender+%25283%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A nice, thick box to hold all the pieces.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxG-vhDb1EtkhKuYFI_zZBiyu5TA7EklHv4SelvH2fCBwUZp_L-NlBv-j4zDflEVJnK4qi61rUBmhfdUM003GHbJCBHOp75KMmK84kenxUUlYc1nQ0r_AWrqme_LNxi8OQRala0GPMeMLx/s1600/FullSizeRender+%25284%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxG-vhDb1EtkhKuYFI_zZBiyu5TA7EklHv4SelvH2fCBwUZp_L-NlBv-j4zDflEVJnK4qi61rUBmhfdUM003GHbJCBHOp75KMmK84kenxUUlYc1nQ0r_AWrqme_LNxi8OQRala0GPMeMLx/s400/FullSizeRender+%25284%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inside: a large single, craft-paper-style sheet with printed pattern and instructions, and a piece of string to keep all your pieces together once they are cut out.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkiLzZ1CiHtl76vksdxPtLoNo-9ptiIONuYoqf0pqFuEXll39_4ugkS5eaAEbKh6ka8KAita29WuoU4QvhsKBv9Sq3ri9iHIngirjhfqHWDR383SnzocvH7MkKU7XMQI2dFmC0sTUnbcYY/s1600/IMG_5498.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkiLzZ1CiHtl76vksdxPtLoNo-9ptiIONuYoqf0pqFuEXll39_4ugkS5eaAEbKh6ka8KAita29WuoU4QvhsKBv9Sq3ri9iHIngirjhfqHWDR383SnzocvH7MkKU7XMQI2dFmC0sTUnbcYY/s400/IMG_5498.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Instructions to cut out and assemble a booklet with sewing instructions and information. (and my foot) </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIH_f787WaF9I_hjs8yiv6QQutLKiUTNmxlPX_l4nG6DuOI49_CAM-KroBR-VLnW5qwu3KEq9z46LRgETQmL185C5U-j5FDGTW7wjpzekKU8k-vDSXmaM5V9iqFI0ZTkU6ULPQLsqJSc04/s1600/IMG_5501.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIH_f787WaF9I_hjs8yiv6QQutLKiUTNmxlPX_l4nG6DuOI49_CAM-KroBR-VLnW5qwu3KEq9z46LRgETQmL185C5U-j5FDGTW7wjpzekKU8k-vDSXmaM5V9iqFI0ZTkU6ULPQLsqJSc04/s400/IMG_5501.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The box turns into a hanger, and included instructions to hang your pattern pieces all together after using. I will most likely trace my pattern pieces, and keep the sheet in-tack a and store in the box.</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHQVXlpQqUy9HzOLPC2KV5ztENyxs_aA1HYz71imPL89urJhVmCh65hyXQztq6l9_x4161uuqvD5nctNYypjNIjiPoaHKFoUkh08kmgPvNrIOQloBWHYPpB0ylpasPBpKbbfRPoP35yXKL/s1600/IMG_5502.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHQVXlpQqUy9HzOLPC2KV5ztENyxs_aA1HYz71imPL89urJhVmCh65hyXQztq6l9_x4161uuqvD5nctNYypjNIjiPoaHKFoUkh08kmgPvNrIOQloBWHYPpB0ylpasPBpKbbfRPoP35yXKL/s320/IMG_5502.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />sew rachel!http://www.blogger.com/profile/06569084994328220284noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1733722403586810555.post-45873384005090943062015-08-14T10:00:00.001-04:002015-08-14T10:12:59.114-04:00fall sewing ideasI'm not going to be <i>so </i>confident to call this a fall sewing plan... because let's be real, I don't really know what my fall schedule will allow for sewing time now that I'm back to work and school. So here's a reasonable "wish-list" of things I'd like to make for me! You'll notice a lot of basics in basic colors, kinda boring for you I suspect, but I've noticed some wardrobe gaps and wanted to make things I know will get a lot of wear using some of my newly-determined tried-and-true patterns.<br />
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<b>1.) <a href="http://shop.grainlinestudio.com/products/scout-tee" target="_blank">Scout Tee</a></b><br />
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<a href="http://shop.grainlinestudio.com/products/scout-tee" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="310" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkyZjPVQ8FL78H4sa7afi7tNS7Qlgj7PbS9FsLSYZIpukmSNyNNnivFXFMTZGe6YQaH8pYjZPmAtwFPlqpk3NxWewQAP7xiWSFM-d_Kdb24JiwXuX4L8Pzx64XigzJgE-rNh13GBESVqyc/s320/11002Illustration.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvKCKFB_yEQ6zAmszRfbW6ODjiNfFX7ivjMlb-102R2uclX119siOD_4fHY0DTVS1fZBn0LeFFElSC0Nxd4UPDhbJc1gTliyrEzepU3JWDoXsFV_t5yQTFWOxxbQj9MOql1pp5vEWzOQQ2/s1600/black.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvKCKFB_yEQ6zAmszRfbW6ODjiNfFX7ivjMlb-102R2uclX119siOD_4fHY0DTVS1fZBn0LeFFElSC0Nxd4UPDhbJc1gTliyrEzepU3JWDoXsFV_t5yQTFWOxxbQj9MOql1pp5vEWzOQQ2/s200/black.jpeg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZXGtXdcwu1qAGloo0L34HbieBuVxfsmWy960F_iVwT1JsONqLWl5tOUj0eVgyUmat9CJMcORO7OVwfwBgaKyLJdiN4XuM39cIRRxW48Yz_mGXGk-S4-xlwUPc53bF78Y-m7iOKxpXUrtq/s1600/FFFFF0.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZXGtXdcwu1qAGloo0L34HbieBuVxfsmWy960F_iVwT1JsONqLWl5tOUj0eVgyUmat9CJMcORO7OVwfwBgaKyLJdiN4XuM39cIRRxW48Yz_mGXGk-S4-xlwUPc53bF78Y-m7iOKxpXUrtq/s200/FFFFF0.png" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX6lalG27rN9uS4QgH4vL6aqjIY-fpgPwVcDtsGgYSE8chkrHnZWiZ4uR89A0RlknZ_mWGX8YA3OjreUL41xbbn8MBPst3d1xbtlYJvr07a9qWiHSEeu6mamZjU-BlIkdwjsOxQnt89wK7/s1600/white.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX6lalG27rN9uS4QgH4vL6aqjIY-fpgPwVcDtsGgYSE8chkrHnZWiZ4uR89A0RlknZ_mWGX8YA3OjreUL41xbbn8MBPst3d1xbtlYJvr07a9qWiHSEeu6mamZjU-BlIkdwjsOxQnt89wK7/s200/white.png" width="200" /></a></div>
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I bought some black, white and ivory rayon fabrics to make few of these, as well as a poly with a slight luster to attempt a dressier version. The fabric has the same look as the cotton/silk blend I used for my black maxi-dress, but was 1/4 of the cost. If it comes out well I'll splurge on some more of that lovely fabric for winter!<br />
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<b>2. simple tops</b><br />
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<a href="http://megannielsen.com/collections/sewing-patterns/products/eucalypt-woven-tank-dress-sewing-pattern" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmKSFqa6JVD8vSo2kAlZD1T5YiFxiBq9SXM_sF1idRDhphQJZOYZ8QGVAEbC0SgecT2Y3dGWdSKj5DO147pAaNyZruD6oDnQJ104n8JqIb4AbWeXH0KScx2l6220fraHytWEFcfwX8QK2x/s320/MN2101croquisAPP.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpuytfAHUA66J6I_yVJ8uHXHlJiuczef5pxh89r7IgS2NQJKSlbF52dJCDeVQhCKkGqHBkFeSbsvwKT89B2U7bxus3PstSai33zc58eKV1sES8LPZYMkKSDPu6mD0IqAawoE46YyexpRft/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpuytfAHUA66J6I_yVJ8uHXHlJiuczef5pxh89r7IgS2NQJKSlbF52dJCDeVQhCKkGqHBkFeSbsvwKT89B2U7bxus3PstSai33zc58eKV1sES8LPZYMkKSDPu6mD0IqAawoE46YyexpRft/s200/FullSizeRender.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaJUojsbOI30EuHXx5anreZfs5BvDb-seS0HVoRdLZQfV_d2psk_4SUM-XBBqGgHp3dkhxsubm039-0WFMnsqeHnHc2Mti_ve5HiPstRZfVSPuMSHzdGQy9m2lXAIZ3Pj0CEatyNLi_8LI/s1600/IMG_5488.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaJUojsbOI30EuHXx5anreZfs5BvDb-seS0HVoRdLZQfV_d2psk_4SUM-XBBqGgHp3dkhxsubm039-0WFMnsqeHnHc2Mti_ve5HiPstRZfVSPuMSHzdGQy9m2lXAIZ3Pj0CEatyNLi_8LI/s200/IMG_5488.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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I purchased some lightweight, crinkly bright coral poly (I know...) and a soft, semi-shear, grey-scale print to make into and easy <a href="http://megannielsen.com/collections/sewing-patterns/products/eucalypt-woven-tank-dress-sewing-pattern" target="_blank">Megan Nielsen Eucalypt Tank</a>. I wear my<a href="http://sewrachel.blogspot.com/2014/05/mmm14-update-and-new-tops.html" target="_blank"> cotton version</a> all the time, so it;s time to make some more!</div>
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<a href="http://www.sbccpatterns.com/collections/frontpage/products/lemon-drop-dress-top" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzVM9Rx6xdWUmw6-7ttQ4vokf2-PX_5t8N1j6MFZ7Ckmv1P_dICl5U9SD5yBiMeoKBDNJlcAqW9uxr2LWVOsjPeMjWnPRFCOQaZE-0ByfsZEaR5l_LLj8LR4obbCQidHRIkrWWQHl4qbU-/s400/SB307-Racerback-Dress-Sewing-Pattern_1024x1024.jpg" width="286" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP55FCQ1NY7T3nlICuKJslw-Cg6Xl-8TOsPL-6wCTMN-70M_tQC5EDyHuhfiaG8T_IY9agYriPy0xPGHqrNqJusPEmgkftynX6EmCVWoV_m806PkFCejB5JW7lMyCGfJ52ej0jAQXPvHzV/s1600/black.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP55FCQ1NY7T3nlICuKJslw-Cg6Xl-8TOsPL-6wCTMN-70M_tQC5EDyHuhfiaG8T_IY9agYriPy0xPGHqrNqJusPEmgkftynX6EmCVWoV_m806PkFCejB5JW7lMyCGfJ52ej0jAQXPvHzV/s200/black.jpeg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0IGC2-HwPAZ1t01Q02Fl5zgRHk6wwTNMp-j6vxJgWe-gOYL2TqZLGW7gp_yMALA_4D8TgHaKXs70AcE0hKLCww8oJFJsIJ75xCoYrQ1_9kRIZLHdLx3Jk6Pe2SZHpUYK2_AiDlu6J9Z52/s1600/FFFFF0.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0IGC2-HwPAZ1t01Q02Fl5zgRHk6wwTNMp-j6vxJgWe-gOYL2TqZLGW7gp_yMALA_4D8TgHaKXs70AcE0hKLCww8oJFJsIJ75xCoYrQ1_9kRIZLHdLx3Jk6Pe2SZHpUYK2_AiDlu6J9Z52/s200/FFFFF0.png" width="200" /></a></div>
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I may also use some leftover fabric from the Scout Tee for a<a href="http://www.sbccpatterns.com/collections/frontpage/products/lemon-drop-dress-top" target="_blank"> Lemon Drop Top by SBCC Patterns</a>. They make patterns specifically designed for petites... I need shop from them more often!</div>
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<b>3. Jeans! <a href="http://onesmallstitchtoday.blogspot.com/2015/08/complete-better-than-anticipated-burda.html" target="_blank">Burda 7214</a></b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsxZcnMvJbj-DapQ0dVZuyw9JomA32Qm57TuDoWXaXiEWtG7cBxo7uBKtCVP_BWHJpwR1PbVW6xQZAfY0qbX1g4wNUToObSr2RQNzWAPrOnGJHC-UNRvJdSLuxhwwRXdiw933DKBSg6bPd/s1600/7214.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsxZcnMvJbj-DapQ0dVZuyw9JomA32Qm57TuDoWXaXiEWtG7cBxo7uBKtCVP_BWHJpwR1PbVW6xQZAfY0qbX1g4wNUToObSr2RQNzWAPrOnGJHC-UNRvJdSLuxhwwRXdiw933DKBSg6bPd/s400/7214.jpg" width="263" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVUxA0SdgDbFRWQvc6lj9DJrnsm2L3wxSdRzUxvcPodCoeSfzqDSqvWHiBxI1YUQt_WBNLTppFyp_OX5JcvEogAmDL-WCZTTLVRpkBRxABLVah2-sRNbyelnPYsmJ0k0THjoVW-LPsw1vJ/s1600/download.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVUxA0SdgDbFRWQvc6lj9DJrnsm2L3wxSdRzUxvcPodCoeSfzqDSqvWHiBxI1YUQt_WBNLTppFyp_OX5JcvEogAmDL-WCZTTLVRpkBRxABLVah2-sRNbyelnPYsmJ0k0THjoVW-LPsw1vJ/s200/download.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP55FCQ1NY7T3nlICuKJslw-Cg6Xl-8TOsPL-6wCTMN-70M_tQC5EDyHuhfiaG8T_IY9agYriPy0xPGHqrNqJusPEmgkftynX6EmCVWoV_m806PkFCejB5JW7lMyCGfJ52ej0jAQXPvHzV/s1600/black.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP55FCQ1NY7T3nlICuKJslw-Cg6Xl-8TOsPL-6wCTMN-70M_tQC5EDyHuhfiaG8T_IY9agYriPy0xPGHqrNqJusPEmgkftynX6EmCVWoV_m806PkFCejB5JW7lMyCGfJ52ej0jAQXPvHzV/s200/black.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div>
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I've been itching to make jeans ever since the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0CCEQFjAAahUKEwiwwJLC06jHAhUEcD4KHVqeDwk&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.store.closetcasefiles.com%2Fproducts%2Fginger-skinny-jeans-pattern&ei=genNVfD7H4Tg-QHavL5I&usg=AFQjCNFPyIndqeU3zZtmSeCoYfbrH8SIWw&sig2=bWNT9zVfAQaVGTX2MgV9TQ&bvm=bv.99804247,d.cWw" target="_blank">Ginger Jeans </a>popped up all over the blog-o-sphere. They all look so good! But they still seemed a little scary... with all the fancy jeans details (even though all the blogs assure me she makes it super simple!). Then a few days ago <a href="http://onesmallstitchtoday.blogspot.com/2015/08/complete-better-than-anticipated-burda.html" target="_blank">One Small Stitch posted her Burda 7214 success</a>, and I decided these were the next pants I want to try! She talks about how easy it was to fit this pattern, which is something I can have challenges with. The pattern is discontinued and it took me a few days to track down a copy online. I would make a plain and simple version without any extra fancy details in denim first, and if that goes well maybe black. </div>
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<b>4. Tan <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/217895698/greenstyle-taylor-shorts-size-0-to-18?ref=shop_home_active_1" target="_blank">Greenstyle Taylor Shorts</a> or<a href="http://www.simplicity.com/p-5829-misses-easy-to-sew-skirts-shorts.aspx" target="_blank"> Simplicity 2258</a></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidQKcZgIZxJz_udSIsfyokoQDMXN_8njRWZwJQVHV3bcC0mgDR74Nm3sKduqq3ADcJXSnwlNlozcmkOtmzc5b94SMGpzGrNX6axkHGpq_dJM2CANxPGnIln8s4BJETEFkguNtqXNePtdM9/s1600/solid_tan_180_square.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidQKcZgIZxJz_udSIsfyokoQDMXN_8njRWZwJQVHV3bcC0mgDR74Nm3sKduqq3ADcJXSnwlNlozcmkOtmzc5b94SMGpzGrNX6axkHGpq_dJM2CANxPGnIln8s4BJETEFkguNtqXNePtdM9/s320/solid_tan_180_square.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.simplicity.com/p-5829-misses-easy-to-sew-skirts-shorts.aspx" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga3HRvuJGSJmfWnOTEjSSoHduCL_wGuUOxEMyRa8ffTJ_CDV4B5kXgt5-ZN4sDvXbHiHPfm5jFMchgnH1609lyXUBNcBVYG8qsGawNV6cU7jUDjwkWCencwwakfRuMfRXHDTET8KKBl3fX/s320/2258.jpg" width="222" /></a><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/217895698/greenstyle-taylor-shorts-size-0-to-18?ref=shop_home_active_1" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5OfXaMDkWPqB2VxWvWEiezwRVZSTmBcc98yfqt3lSzl3b96D-JwaRpmQKwxhRWyadQlJ5ohI-Rxh5pGHtKWGZLqsm7tDHs9T8N2zFzdZYKWxlmzIsmOtPx_f_KdE7xPZXzl1WWzKnqk3I/s320/il_570xN.709327722_qwvq.jpg" width="246" /></a></div>
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If you've looked back in my blog you'll see I've made both of these patterns recently (plus one more skirt yet to blog!) and like them a lot. I have 1.5 yards of dark khaki bottom-weight cotton with ab it of stretch, and think it should be come on of these two patterns. If I decided on shorts I better make them soon before it gets too cold! If I make the skirt, it would be view C but with the ties from A, and <i>maybe </i>add a center front and back seam to get a more RTW look. <b>What do you think I should make?</b></div>
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<b>5. Tilly and the Buttons<a href="http://shop.tillyandthebuttons.com/products/fifi" target="_blank"> Fifi Set</a>!</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-RwQeYNy5en2Yr60a4LRWicWGEpj2BUQrC2aR4AgNm6LUROVkirIxKNhjY_38dSRcCKgeUqexMOMMICYzRsmiW565obnBXtN-rsQY7EM5ZXrJA_NJQcjmrvktMA_ADisWx6HrgOQzk3B9/s1600/Fifi_sewing_pattern_set_1024x1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-RwQeYNy5en2Yr60a4LRWicWGEpj2BUQrC2aR4AgNm6LUROVkirIxKNhjY_38dSRcCKgeUqexMOMMICYzRsmiW565obnBXtN-rsQY7EM5ZXrJA_NJQcjmrvktMA_ADisWx6HrgOQzk3B9/s320/Fifi_sewing_pattern_set_1024x1024.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-fE4riQfAWA3ZO3wZbwGY5axiqC_YQoWUkhFcaHY_K723vU57mu15NuViObMWpnbaUdnDWlrUXNxXyj-bPg7fhY26AmaSQA36Ukt_QkvmSqy2cE4rqB1hfuYrsC3CEv9GsA8f5bLwzUgA/s1600/IMG_5491.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-fE4riQfAWA3ZO3wZbwGY5axiqC_YQoWUkhFcaHY_K723vU57mu15NuViObMWpnbaUdnDWlrUXNxXyj-bPg7fhY26AmaSQA36Ukt_QkvmSqy2cE4rqB1hfuYrsC3CEv9GsA8f5bLwzUgA/s320/IMG_5491.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Because I deserve some pretty pjs! And this grey challis is sooo soft!</div>
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<b>6.) Pencil Skirts</b></div>
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<a href="http://sewrachel.blogspot.com/2015/07/custom-drafted-coral-lace-skirt.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtDPSHosuY2HRqrE6zffZimxIFq_blefZDBygtTBuexYu6WiJH6W48IuHYDk98xbdsGKFFcGczvAp2siqQ64RQ2i_0hZJefcvaSFOpr_ROxjDmYIbrugmQr8qm0tJsAy0vK-Kb7znoTZw4/s320/IMG_5130.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1ta_sHU-5O0uBhoUvJprE_fueO6fTVEGKyfoE7zU0ISILLSz4YWmZxDwLQUp3a6iczYljirTHDpIgY7psw7nSTREBwvJaTIWAUAundEsA_ksAMCmm_HUZ_FluLGMQqRG51Bm2RwIgJLyj/s1600/Grey-Worsted-Wool-Fabric.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1ta_sHU-5O0uBhoUvJprE_fueO6fTVEGKyfoE7zU0ISILLSz4YWmZxDwLQUp3a6iczYljirTHDpIgY7psw7nSTREBwvJaTIWAUAundEsA_ksAMCmm_HUZ_FluLGMQqRG51Bm2RwIgJLyj/s200/Grey-Worsted-Wool-Fabric.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf9791v1o4ju8okjjdO_QG_MtFdXJ1LxWI1DX__-AROzfpURlJO4faihScy7f1ccSg_pmJ-wpDTHy2G8CwnriMHBqT3jn7BYPsjwxjwNnJDZbnoj2tNUjto9VL3u2BILYuMtSlOeCvKryR/s1600/download+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="199" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf9791v1o4ju8okjjdO_QG_MtFdXJ1LxWI1DX__-AROzfpURlJO4faihScy7f1ccSg_pmJ-wpDTHy2G8CwnriMHBqT3jn7BYPsjwxjwNnJDZbnoj2tNUjto9VL3u2BILYuMtSlOeCvKryR/s200/download+%25281%2529.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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A grey wool and a black, quilted leather(ish) pencil skirt using my <a href="http://sewrachel.blogspot.com/2015/07/custom-drafted-coral-lace-skirt.html" target="_blank">custom-drafted skirt pattern</a>. I know... quilted leather? But they had a fabric at Joann's that look very cool.</div>
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<b>7. Black A-line or sheath dress.</b></div>
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<a href="https://www.colettepatterns.com/sewing/laurel" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3uqF6FLyXCGVZaUjAmQ9aa2OYWbfngJ1j-1f4efxMS9JG41SPfAWLXVVkrzT5dB9N2o5mKiZsl3oajIcvUH9UUa2FFZcoolYAghQ7c2RdujZDS8J7CuIn4ej_nPmQC7yZWh5rRARk6dVk/s320/cp1025-laurel-cover-med-6f4155cc30225cf77f83d177090491f0.png" width="213" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO04gURNcJQXXTyJcE0jlcAxLq-oQ3tZ1vTSpMkqdFrGdy5U4VWRaY8cwg3YnFqrn7wx7n41cZ8ZuSPAqX2JNY5Xz9ulJlS9CEu3dfSdyorl3Wm-VaEwypMAThfHc_FquMfB4itq5woOcx/s1600/11002Illustration.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO04gURNcJQXXTyJcE0jlcAxLq-oQ3tZ1vTSpMkqdFrGdy5U4VWRaY8cwg3YnFqrn7wx7n41cZ8ZuSPAqX2JNY5Xz9ulJlS9CEu3dfSdyorl3Wm-VaEwypMAThfHc_FquMfB4itq5woOcx/s320/11002Illustration.jpg" width="224" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP55FCQ1NY7T3nlICuKJslw-Cg6Xl-8TOsPL-6wCTMN-70M_tQC5EDyHuhfiaG8T_IY9agYriPy0xPGHqrNqJusPEmgkftynX6EmCVWoV_m806PkFCejB5JW7lMyCGfJ52ej0jAQXPvHzV/s1600/black.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP55FCQ1NY7T3nlICuKJslw-Cg6Xl-8TOsPL-6wCTMN-70M_tQC5EDyHuhfiaG8T_IY9agYriPy0xPGHqrNqJusPEmgkftynX6EmCVWoV_m806PkFCejB5JW7lMyCGfJ52ej0jAQXPvHzV/s200/black.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div>
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I'm thinking about either extending the length of the Scout Tee (that I love so much!), or trying the <a href="https://www.colettepatterns.com/sewing/laurel" target="_blank">Laurel by Colette Patterns</a> (which I hear nothing but praise for!). I have yet to find the right fabric, so that my determine my pattern choice and timeline for making it.</div>
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<b>8. A Sport Coat for Mr. SewRachel</b></div>
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He's been asking for one for a while (does he understand how <i>hard</i> a men's jacket it?!?!), and now he has a job where he will need to wear one once in a while... but lets look at the list above and be real... probably not going to happen. Haven't even picked out a pattern....</div>
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<b>This winter...</b>.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZJhI9GyKMuJivUHIM-_-7sTn3PDQdMolGbMC91ixoLEoAGn4Vy0j7aLiCe_a-pYW6jKUj0Zb7PH1O-Ccq_Jyk4IROMG4AIt23s15yc1fFahzreshMbMlzjyVZug9-iwqnjuIRMQtzjcHT/s1600/MSNDDfront_large.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZJhI9GyKMuJivUHIM-_-7sTn3PDQdMolGbMC91ixoLEoAGn4Vy0j7aLiCe_a-pYW6jKUj0Zb7PH1O-Ccq_Jyk4IROMG4AIt23s15yc1fFahzreshMbMlzjyVZug9-iwqnjuIRMQtzjcHT/s320/MSNDDfront_large.png" width="204" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaxUv4xY99Y7ksw7Rt1HZVNCFd9YPImQA2RgVmOFR0Cfzcz5fdv1fzmN2CHALSENwXub3s6in74yT7Bq0jM_zp5yp77Pn2DRkSWbd5eYxWMa7_i-FGgu_auvnSF3r37QP3cOmrfmvRBm3-/s1600/FullSizeRender+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaxUv4xY99Y7ksw7Rt1HZVNCFd9YPImQA2RgVmOFR0Cfzcz5fdv1fzmN2CHALSENwXub3s6in74yT7Bq0jM_zp5yp77Pn2DRkSWbd5eYxWMa7_i-FGgu_auvnSF3r37QP3cOmrfmvRBm3-/s320/FullSizeRender+%25281%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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When I was visiting Italy this summer I splurged on some fun, designer Italian silk! I was only going to buy a meter to make a top, because it was a little pricey, but he ended up selling me what was left on the bolt for a meter and a half... so now I have 2.5 yards! i can make a dress! I think this print would be great as a <a href="http://papercutpatterns.com/products/midsummer-nights-dream" target="_blank">Papercut Patterns Midsummer Night's Dream Dress</a>. This dress is not something I'll need for my fall/winter wardrobe, so it's not too high on the priority list. Maybe I'll make it when I'm on winter break, as I'll was time to make a mock-up first before I cut into my lovely silk!</div>
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sew rachel!http://www.blogger.com/profile/06569084994328220284noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1733722403586810555.post-8113043769260745392015-08-05T15:04:00.001-04:002015-08-05T15:04:23.497-04:00summer taylor shortsLast year I made a pair of <a href="http://sewrachel.blogspot.com/2014/07/fun-summer-shorts.html" target="_blank">printed GreenStyle Creation's Taylor Shorts</a> and loved them, but sadly this year they are a little too snug to wear. That pattern fit so well before, that I printed off another copy (a plus to PDF patterns!) and just cut the next size up.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/217895698/greenstyle-taylor-shorts-size-0-to-18?ref=shop_home_active_1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img alt="https://www.etsy.com/listing/217895698/greenstyle-taylor-shorts-size-0-to-18?ref=shop_home_active_1" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfjiI71iWW92T0V8NOxaeJbHkeEujtW28Duh_oHpnSzlxn0Q82_orzBHXeWyL7YJmW5uc-VT_HvRAyWE4aWWOe1gBvE5nktPdCKDcAL92eznc4P18iicfHOMmLlDFp55wpj9re8lNSDrnY/s320/il_570xN.709327722_qwvq.jpg" width="247" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Check them out here: <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/217895698/greenstyle-taylor-shorts-size-0-to-18?ref=shop_home_active_1">https://www.etsy.com/listing/217895698/greenstyle-taylor-shorts-size-0-to-18?ref=shop_home_active_1</a></i></td></tr>
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You need very little fabric for the 2" inseam version, so I was able to cut a pair our of leftover black cotton/poly twill in my stash from the <a href="http://sewrachel.blogspot.com/2013/12/merry-chirstmas.html" target="_blank">foldover tote bag</a> I had made form my sister way-back-when. The only things I had to purchase for this project was a zipper and some trouser hook & eyes, for a grand total of about $3.50!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Ignore the bunny fur... it's a constant in our house. </i></td></tr>
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Sorry for the over-exposure... but it helps to see the details on a black garment! I adjusted the waistband to sit a little lower over the front of my hips, as the fabric was really pooling across the pockets. That might be why the hemlines got a little uneven along the sides, but not so badly that I'm going to unpick and re-sew them.<br />
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As I mentioned when I blogged <a href="http://sewrachel.blogspot.com/2014/07/fun-summer-shorts.html" target="_blank">my last pair of Taylor shorts</a>, the pattern comes with great instructions with lots of photos. And this time I only had to unpick <b><i>one</i></b> seam when sewing in the fly! (I sewed the zipper all on one side....)<br />
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Aside from lowering the waistband in the front, the only other change I made to the pattern instructions was to understitch the pocket lining, so my fun, light-colored cotton lining wouldn't peak out!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>oooo look at that nice top stitching! </i></td></tr>
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<br />sew rachel!http://www.blogger.com/profile/06569084994328220284noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1733722403586810555.post-68361317420617508412015-08-02T17:53:00.000-04:002015-08-02T17:53:11.591-04:00the good, bad and ugly scout teeCheap, synthetic, silky fabrics are yucky. They are yucky to work with and often yucky to wear... so why are they so irresistible in the fabric store?!?! I bought this blue "simply silky print" at <a href="https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0CB8QFjAAahUKEwjtmZq2sIvHAhVL2R4KHR8JDZQ&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.joann.com%2F&ei=ZJC-Ve3XMsuye5-StKAJ&usg=AFQjCNEBZvQOT_tmra3XoevWN2X-Ou4JOQ&sig2=94vffl3zgytCp3G2-S_Fkw&bvm=bv.99261572,d.dmo" target="_blank">Joann Fabrics</a>, because "look how pretty it is!". I knew it should be another <a href="http://sewrachel.blogspot.com/2015/07/scout-tee-success.html" target="_blank">Grainline Scout Tee</a>.<br />
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<b>GOOD:</b><br />
It came out looking pretty good overall! Fits nicely, sleeves set well. And actually, this particular silky synthetic feels nice to wear. <br />
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<b>BAD:</b></div>
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I made a mistake. After spending quite a bit of time laying out the wiggly, wobbly fabric so my lines would lie straight across the body and the little waves/fishy scales lay in the correct directions... I cut the back piece upside down. I really wanted the print to lay like fish scales all around the top (I know, who actually WANTS to look like a fish? Me, it turns out.). It doesn't look <i>that</i> bad, but does kinda spoil the effect I was super excited for.</div>
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<b>UGLY:</b></div>
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Remember how silky synthetics are not fun to sew with? Well, this fabric certainly had it's challenges. As I mentioned, it wiggled and wobbled, taking a lot of time and concentration to cut out the pieces accurately. It also wiggled and wobbled as it went under the machine, so the sides seams have a little puckering. They all really falls more under "bad"... the ugly is the neck binding:</div>
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Yuck! It slipped under my machine, it puckered the neckline, and just wouldn't lay flat! Thankfully, I was able to hand stitch down the areas that slipped out from the machine's needle without it showing too badly, and could iron most of the puckering out, getting it to lay flat(ter). Also, the sheen on the fabric is actually working <i>with me</i> by hiding some of these less-than-perfect bits when I wear it. </div>
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<b>BUT GOOD AGAIN:</b></div>
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My narrow hems on both the bottom of the shirt and sleeves came out really, really well! It was nice to end this sewing with a real high note, otherwise this top may have ended up in the trash. I could say the fabric behaved well for the narrow hem.... but I'm going to go ahead and think that is was just the seamstress demonstrating some especially nice sewing skills. :) </div>
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<br />sew rachel!http://www.blogger.com/profile/06569084994328220284noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1733722403586810555.post-15537342686144246012015-07-31T17:36:00.000-04:002015-07-31T17:36:00.208-04:00bright new simplicity 2258 skirt Back when this blog was brand new and I was just starting to sew my own clothes, I made a teal, denim skirt using <a href="http://www.simplicity.com/p-5829-misses-easy-to-sew-skirts-shorts.aspx" target="_blank">Simplicity 2258</a>. I LOVE that skirt! Even with my just-developing sewing skills, that skirt came out great and I continue to wear it often, because this pattern is drafted so well, fits great, looks good, and is very quick and easy to sew. Ever since, I've been saying I'll sew another, and finally I did:<br />
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Despite a little bit of weight gain in those years, my original skirt still fits nicely so I sewed up the same size as before. I used a beautiful "linen look" print from <a href="http://www.joann.com/" target="_blank">Joann Fabric</a>. The only change I made to the pattern was to take the hemline up about a 1/2" in the front, to even out the hem all around (due to my little booty).<br />
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This fabric has more drape than my original denim, making my pretty bow a bit "floppier." I may end up wearing the bow pieces as just a simple side-tie instead.<br />
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My favorite feature are the big pockets!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMqalnq1-Aj2FmroTO8UeIG7-f-9oqN6cgPLpOZMyaz2GmPlSjlLo5Rro3JTeHTeEPtHsif4L1kP4V53uS7HE2AUZZU6xyVxkR3GGTlWh0CSzdKGbNOEQSln_QbGcJ9Ph0dG7gpyL1SGHL/s1600/IMG_5266.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMqalnq1-Aj2FmroTO8UeIG7-f-9oqN6cgPLpOZMyaz2GmPlSjlLo5Rro3JTeHTeEPtHsif4L1kP4V53uS7HE2AUZZU6xyVxkR3GGTlWh0CSzdKGbNOEQSln_QbGcJ9Ph0dG7gpyL1SGHL/s400/IMG_5266.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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Here's a peek inside. I finished my seams and pockets with the serger, and double-folded than machined-stitched the hem.<br />
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And the best part is, I can wear this with just about any color top! Guess I'll need to be making some more <a href="http://sewrachel.blogspot.com/2015/07/scout-tee-success.html" target="_blank">Scout Tees</a>...</div>
<br />sew rachel!http://www.blogger.com/profile/06569084994328220284noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1733722403586810555.post-6200135754309471852015-07-29T17:03:00.004-04:002015-07-29T17:17:06.310-04:00inside a tilly and the buttons printed patternHello again! I've been sewing up a bunch of fun new things to wear and promise to have them photographed and posted soon, but in the meantime I wanted to share a <a href="http://www.tillyandthebuttons.com/" target="_blank">Tilly and the Buttons</a> printed pattern, for anyone who hasn't purchased one before! (Like me, until just the other day!)<br />
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I ordered both of her new patterns,<a href="http://shop.tillyandthebuttons.com/collections/all/products/fifi" target="_blank"> FIFI</a> and <a href="http://shop.tillyandthebuttons.com/collections/sewingpatterns/products/bettine" target="_blank">BETTINE</a>. Tilly's whole brand is designed around garment patterns your can use to learn to sew your own clothes. The Bettine seems especially straight forward and a great beginner dress, but let's open up Fifi to see what you are really getting when you order one of her printed patterns!<br />
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The envelope is a nice, heavy paper, with all the details you'd expect on the back. The flap is held in place by a resealable sticky patch.<br />
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The sides expand out, which I suspect will come in handy when trying to cram all the pieces back inside later. (Who's ruined a big 4 envelope by trying to put the pieces back inside?)</div>
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Inside we get a full-color booklet on heavy paper, with both written and visual instructions as well as other handy tips for making your pattern, especially for a beginner who might not be used to sewing jargon or techniques.</div>
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And of course, the pattern! These are also printed on really heavy paper! I will choose to trace mine, and these will stand up to a lot of wear.</div>
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I'm very pleased with my purchase, even having to ship it from the U.K. Tilly has put a lot of thought into creating a high-value package here that seams easy to use and will stand up to a lot of use. I'm sold! Can't wait to make something and show you!</div>
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<br />sew rachel!http://www.blogger.com/profile/06569084994328220284noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1733722403586810555.post-5598706387034669892015-07-20T19:39:00.001-04:002015-07-20T22:36:55.395-04:00custom drafted coral lace skirtFitting patterns is hard.<br />
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So when <a href="https://academy.burdastyle.com/courses/draft-and-develop-your-own-personal-sloper-library" target="_blank">BurdaStyle Academy advertised a 6-week online course on how to draft your own personal sloper collection,</a> I decided that that might be a good investment of my time and money. It's a 6-week course, with access to the videos and material forever. From their website: "Through this 6 week long course Meg will guide you through the entire
detailed process of developing a sloper library consisting of a bodice
and sleeve, skirt, pants, dress, and knit sloper."<br />
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The first project is a skirt. As I've mentioned in my last few posts, I've been searching for a really nice fitting slim skirt pattern... so why one make one myself from my own measurements! I've been seeing these coral lace skirts in stores that I really liked, and found some pretty coral lace and matching mid-weight poly for lining... but first to draft the pattern!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="J. Crew Dresses & Skirts - new J.Crew Collection Lace Pencil Skirt size 0" class="add_pin_it_btn" height="320" itemprop="image" src="https://dtpmhvbsmffsz.cloudfront.net/posts/2014/12/11/548a6afa4107cc77b50cb576/m_548a6afe4107cc77b50cb587.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="J. Crew Dresses & Skirts - new J.Crew Collection Lace Pencil Skirt size 0" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>source: https://poshmark.com/listing/new-JCrew-Collection-Lace-Pencil-Skirt-size-0-548a6afa4107cc77b50cb576</i></td></tr>
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Meg Healy takes you step by step through videos and handout on how to measure along many lines on your body (and how to do it without a friend, too!), then draft your skirt pattern. Here is my finished drafted pattern:<br />
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I traced it, added seam allowances and made up a quick version in muslin to test the fit:<br />
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Overall not bad fit at all!!! For my lace skirt, I decided to lower the waist 1", taper the side seams starting at the hip line to take in a total of 4" at the hemline, and moved the side seams forward an inch at the waistline, as it felt to me like they sat too far back on my body. Here are the new adjustments traced on paper, with seam allowances (and my drafting buddy):<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Forgot to lower the waist 1" in this photo. You can see it below.</i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPaVdW09WaO5droItxwX9Icxr0sK6G_ke5Br8pFTedGFEoX9zPO2tfJXe09rYEdHPWGncxRH099WIwenm51qhDtZnLhbW89ijuRGHo6nOuvYxp6mFCa6lVylVgancsQ0Qz33F4g9O-2Tn8/s1600/IMG_5133.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPaVdW09WaO5droItxwX9Icxr0sK6G_ke5Br8pFTedGFEoX9zPO2tfJXe09rYEdHPWGncxRH099WIwenm51qhDtZnLhbW89ijuRGHo6nOuvYxp6mFCa6lVylVgancsQ0Qz33F4g9O-2Tn8/s400/IMG_5133.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>I decided to finish the waist with double-fold bias tape, so I removed the seam allowance.</i></td></tr>
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I constructed the skirt by underlining the lace with the poly, basting the layers together by hand before cutting, then machine basting the edges of all the cut out pieces, treating it as one fabric from that point on. On the original draft there were two 3/8" front darts on each side, but with the combined fabric thickness I needed to combine them to one 3/4" dart. I think it looks better with just one front dart anyway. Raw edges were serged (with minor fits from my machine), and the top was finished with matching double fold bias tape, with I finished on the inside by hand. In fact, I was able to find everything to match perfectly EXCEPT the invisible zipper. I'll most likely wear it with a shirt untucked to it won't show too bad.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>The indoor lighting totally throws off the color!</i></td></tr>
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I'm very pleased with the invisible zipper insertion! I found the trick to avoiding a bump or pucker where the zipper ends it to hand sew that transition after completing the seam. </div>
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The outside lighting show the color much better! After constructing the basic pieces, I did straighten out the hip line a little more, shaving off about an inch overall at the hip. Next time I will want to add a little more length so it hits <i>just above </i>my knee. I also may not lower the waist so much in my next version. </div>
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I needed to straighten out the waistline by trimming off a small wedge of fabric from the front dart to first back dart on each side. It was only about 1/2" at the worst of it, but if you compare the side view below with the side view of the muslin test, you can see a big difference. </div>
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Here you can also see where I moved the side seam forward at the waistline. The seam certainly no longer makes a straight line up and down, but maybe it makes the tummy less noticeable. What do you think? The side seam as pictured in the muslin or below? </div>
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So remember how I decided to treat the lace and lining as one fabric? Well, after pre-washing the lace it become much less stiff than it was in the store, and even had a little stretch, so once sewn together the lace began to sag compared to the firm lining fabric. It's very clear along the hem pictured below, and along the side seam above. Guess I should have sewn and hemmed them separately. I wonder if I could shrink the lace layer back up a little with a spin in the dryer? Or carefully tack the layers together throughout the skirt? (With the perfectly matching thread, which let me tell you really blends in, especially when you are trying to unpick it!) Or maybe I could find a way to re-do the hem so the layers can hang separately, at least at the hemline? Suggestions and thoughts welcome! </div>
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But aside from that, look how nice that fit and finish is! So far, this course (and new skirt pattern) is a winner!sew rachel!http://www.blogger.com/profile/06569084994328220284noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1733722403586810555.post-24978189108962636002015-07-06T13:57:00.002-04:002015-07-06T13:57:49.323-04:00scout tee success!Who would have thought that a woven t-shirt with NO dart shaping would look this good?!?!?!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Sorry for the lame bathroom mirror selfie... you do what you gatta do!</i></td></tr>
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<br />I'm totally diggin' the <a href="http://shop.grainlinestudio.com/products/scout-tee" target="_blank">Grainline Scout Tee</a>. My mom bought the pattern for herself, loved it, and sent a copy to me (yay thanks mom!). It sews up super easy, the hardest part being self bias binding for the neck facing... which came out pretty well is I do say so!<br /><br />
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I just sewed up the seams on my regular machine, then finished them on my serger (I prefer this to just doing the seams with the serger... maybe because I'm not always on good speaking terms with that machine). The bottom was finished with a simple narrow hem, and the sleeves were serged than turned over once to hem... and that's it! </div>
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I love the A-line shape, especially in this drapy rayon, which <a href="http://sewrachel.blogspot.com/2013/05/a-bright-casual-mccalls-6751-for-summer.html" target="_blank">you may have seen here before</a>. I've already picked out some more fabric for another, and would love to do a version in an <a href="http://greysfabric.com/collections/robert-kaufman/products/radiance-silk-cotton-blend-by-robert-kaufman-in-ivory-16-yard" target="_blank">ivory cotton/silk</a>, or maybe extend to an a-line t-dress.... so very much a fan of this pattern!</div>
sew rachel!http://www.blogger.com/profile/06569084994328220284noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1733722403586810555.post-61245032573648604992015-06-10T19:34:00.002-04:002015-06-10T19:34:13.465-04:00sewing pjs for me!I made something for me! TWO somethings in fact! I've discovered I only have one pair of sleeping shorts for summer, so I made myself a couple of pairs fairly quickly. Each took about an hour and a half.<br />
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I used <a href="http://mccallpattern.mccall.com/m6848-products-47795.php?page_id=907" target="_blank">McCalls 6848</a>, a super simple pattern with only two pieces. I didn't even look at the directions because they are pretty straight forward. I made the purple pair first from some fabric in my stash. They look bigger because I decided to tighten the elastic on the second pair. I made them first without any alterations... I mean, they are sleeping shorts! What fitting should they need? Turns out, there was <i>way</i> too much extra fabric in the front rise/crotch. How is in that this is always an issue when I make something from a commercial pattern, yet never in ready-to-wear? Am I the only one noticing this huge difference in fit between what pattern companies are designing vs. clothing manufactures? </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-8w5b62mTWIYld3yrTWM4oA49ASaAZQs1kJK4NV-eHDqOn43kepAIZa-Q7AaoTjN4PI39K6R3NBDOE6cOUIJcmhGicMnH_IuHGr7hg5533q7XFVUn0EUGn0ghL3zHTAm6mlmRDh9u6KtI/s1600/FullSizeRender+%252810%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-8w5b62mTWIYld3yrTWM4oA49ASaAZQs1kJK4NV-eHDqOn43kepAIZa-Q7AaoTjN4PI39K6R3NBDOE6cOUIJcmhGicMnH_IuHGr7hg5533q7XFVUn0EUGn0ghL3zHTAm6mlmRDh9u6KtI/s400/FullSizeRender+%252810%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>For both pairs, I serged all the raw edges and seams, allowing me to just fold over once for the help and waistband.</i></td></tr>
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For this pair, I remedied some of this by scooping out the front crotch to remove a little extra fabric. After a little research, I decided to take a wedge out of the front pattern piece before cutting into my next pair. I slashed the pattern piece along the hip-line, overlapped at the center front seam to remove a lot of fabric, and redrew the crotch curve with addition scoop.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUrlH47QN3lLQzIbijlK1eBOLWYgn_O-Xbk6Ijb0uURUE_ubxXJHn8Esq8dE2WgmrjJs9hyYQgsJ_PaO7RGMByJBH3UvoZU7uBUr5of3FgEPge5Yox8U_ydG3jnSER_fsClPLiGF8IV4Fp/s1600/IMG_4492.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUrlH47QN3lLQzIbijlK1eBOLWYgn_O-Xbk6Ijb0uURUE_ubxXJHn8Esq8dE2WgmrjJs9hyYQgsJ_PaO7RGMByJBH3UvoZU7uBUr5of3FgEPge5Yox8U_ydG3jnSER_fsClPLiGF8IV4Fp/s400/IMG_4492.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Here you can see the overlapping and the new crotch curve (dashed lines)</i></td></tr>
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Over all better, but I think next time around I will also do the exact opposite (slash and open along the back center) to give a little more room in the rear. What shape does McCalls think I am anyway? And does anyone know the correct term for these alterations so I can research it more? <div>
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Next up, some more simple basics. I don't have the time (or more importantly, focus) that I used to for more complicated sewing projects in between my <a href="http://filbertandmaggie.com/" target="_blank">Filbert & Maggie</a> sewing, so next I may try the <a href="http://shop.grainlinestudio.com/products/scout-tee" target="_blank">Scout Tee</a>, and still looking for that perfect pencil skirt pattern. Until later!<br /><div>
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sew rachel!http://www.blogger.com/profile/06569084994328220284noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1733722403586810555.post-7885493124965172462015-05-13T21:08:00.001-04:002015-05-13T21:08:26.577-04:00i made a skirt!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hello all! I've finally made something for me! And it was a success! I needed a sewing "win" to boost my confidence and get me excited to do some selfish sewing this summer, now that I'm off from work for a few month (as I'm working at the University of Southern Maine). I saw <a href="http://www.simplicity.com/p-12280-misses-knit-skirts-with-length-variations.aspx" target="_blank">this recent Simplicity pattern</a> and thought it would be perfectly comfy and chic, especially for an upcoming overseas trip:<br />
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AND it was on sale for 99 cents at Joann Fabrics. AND they had a super pretty wildflower-print knit on sale for 50% off. AND I had money left on a gift card from my birthday. So that equals:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0pFrQV02q_HZsqlu-QZPP01_lmW-hwRV9nHNvJECkyNjYXhfXrawqRyxtCMy6DgePwOSblQc71F3Ky2a0kU9cy4tAcSJ0hhrT7oIYgNT1Mz2Ccv1Y1oQ9vaT8kxM82y2PjsTiu00AHl_8/s1600/FullSizeRender(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0pFrQV02q_HZsqlu-QZPP01_lmW-hwRV9nHNvJECkyNjYXhfXrawqRyxtCMy6DgePwOSblQc71F3Ky2a0kU9cy4tAcSJ0hhrT7oIYgNT1Mz2Ccv1Y1oQ9vaT8kxM82y2PjsTiu00AHl_8/s320/FullSizeRender(1).jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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It's obviously much longer on me than the envelope model, but for this version I don't mind. It wears more like a subtle hi-low maxi-skirt, and you know I love a maxi-skirt! The knit was all kinds of wobbly when cutting and sewing, but also held a nice press when doing the curved hem line. So win some, lose some. It feels lovely to wear, and the 1.5" waistband is very comfortable... and it only took a few hours to complete! I will totally make this pattern again! Plus, I have enough fabric left over to maybe try to make some underthings... Overall, feeling very positive about sewing and making some more time to sew for me again this summer!<br />
sew rachel!http://www.blogger.com/profile/06569084994328220284noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1733722403586810555.post-45429569234952043952015-03-22T19:22:00.001-04:002015-03-22T19:23:49.566-04:00a basic to get back in the swing of thingsHas it really been since DECEMBER since I posted?!?! Oh well, I'm working on finding more time for me-sewing, not just <a href="http://filbertandmaggie.com/" target="_blank">Filbert & Maggie</a> sewing. Here is a <a href="http://www.sewaholicpatterns.com/renfrew-top/" target="_blank">Renfew</a> I sewed up recently, nothing too exciting but it's something! It's a fairly light-weight sweater-knit, so I made it to be a casual basic in my wardrobe.<br />
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The sleeves are SOOOOO long, but can be scrunched up, and I totally puckered up the un-even hemline trying to shorten it after the fact, BUT LOOK AT THAT PERFECT NECKBINDING! I may have to re-do the bottom hem somehow, since the rest of the top came out so nice, even with the super stretchy, wiggly fabric.<br />
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I also attempted a plaid pencil skirt from a BurdaStyle US Magazine, but the fit was all funky. Any suggestions on a great, go-to pencil skirt pattern for a girl with a little bit of tummy? Next up I think is another pair of <a href="http://sewrachel.blogspot.com/2014/02/i-made-pants.html" target="_blank">Elle Pants</a> in black.... not terribly exciting to read about but great basics for me! I'll try to think of something fabulous to make and post soon, maybe some of those <a href="http://www.store.closetcasefiles.com/products/ginger-skinny-jeans-pattern" target="_blank">Ginger Jeans</a> that everyone is making right now, because who doesn't need a perfect-fitting pair of jeans? <br />
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<br />sew rachel!http://www.blogger.com/profile/06569084994328220284noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1733722403586810555.post-27033727958617446002014-12-31T11:58:00.001-05:002014-12-31T11:58:25.477-05:002014 reviewWhere to even being? Oh yes, there is the "where have you been?" "why I've haven't blogged this month..." blah blah blah! But lets just dive into the accomplishments of the year! Here are all the clothing items I made in 2014 in order (and click on the thumbnail if you want to learn more about each item!):<br />
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<a href="http://sewrachel.blogspot.com/2014/01/first-make-of-2014-lola-dress-by.html" target="_blank"><img height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijVfvGbi4zFzYOAbLXzbXN-No7ROWbc3FYArG8pvwUBiBtDF7QLEPeW_yC2FbyUVkKJ8gfJ7Af3mmqY2w-d5d5-4KXR0rdl0GWAfmF4rOYP9lgZlCPknU4mtoypVS8dxE_zy7zUC0VT_M6/s200/image(3).jpg" width="149" /></a> <a href="http://sewrachel.blogspot.com/2014/01/ginger-high-waist-panties-2014-goal.html" target="_blank"><img height="149" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6IWT5xPuW2Mz57on_kmrgbeMe7ezHtYLH1YC-2X36B_kGtgXSGMYD3wP0sivZ-FgK0e2G4nxbcOP8D88h7nKZOIkExMXiaE4TQeFh1JALabgAVXpEDE-wP_HXtrpnYZE85Z-4glMV4-GL/s200/image+(61).jpg" width="200" /></a> <a href="http://sewrachel.blogspot.com/2014/01/not-christmas-party-dress.html" target="_blank"><img height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCBcFHGUfEU0aPD9JBUU4KWH49fc3cvbSom9hwwJz8_B05emUqTFEG5vSPHxCpb_RrD4On9oNDUJ_R5A2tAFHmPFD7GRvpPeIKbjlY7w8S4dm2jR9d7wgXr5qSaxIpaqac35q4fRztulVQ/s200/20140119_17.JPG" width="112" /></a> <a href="http://sewrachel.blogspot.com/2014/02/i-made-pants.html" target="_blank"><img height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifr9jyY69eG_boDBh8tZ6HULKdEiQFzoobXuOMf0BvzJptSQg0HKeJpjM3AlbfR1dB011EPJrhogJvIQlfYTrwlNmDeadLRBJTHRIfWSCkAGTKiZCe2KGQdYABOY2cF3m8sXfBUtNUUuCG/s200/photo+1.JPG" width="137" /></a> <a href="http://sewrachel.blogspot.com/2014/03/finished-by-hand-london-georgia-dress.html" target="_blank"><img height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj62bs8rN_H-8oH1AJ49dxTjrMsHov6kT61JblLTgq7CnMTnCLH2CXfCGAsNAp0L-nHSYTkbYasCGUToakp_0DjYw3tAuZEn-UkeFx2nSewz5omIxDDu1vSzRSL2yaa3bu8_4O_4iMvPWaX/s200/photo+4.JPG" width="199" /></a> <a href="http://sewrachel.blogspot.com/2014/03/a-stylearc-marie-jacket.html" target="_blank"><img height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLBYIH6QlbZ39pWiUpz98PSdBxYtXeVJHTIBHCBA36XWDaSJc09j1Cv_NvxphXkE-q41WnRMNgjOz2VipW_CmnzTmWIVXcUkVOM0caH4DR5evMrljlO_vRIiXQbqomoCfEYRkc49P5GqwM/s200/photo+4(1).JPG" width="200" /></a> <a href="http://sewrachel.blogspot.com/2014/04/new-finished-garments-and-marie-jacket.html" target="_blank"><img height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXlqGZ68Gke_ipTFl5S4Lj-9MBpYR6VMOnjBVEQXBxaYtNMEQSITyWddC8ESghgoikHVw-sEtkNlq0Zv7zsHLmCf-fj3LNbhK67YgBr0BZtDdSXb5Q_T-LPZ9Ft_1-bwH7CL9ss_7XCe7V/s200/photo+2(7).JPG" width="200" /></a> <a href="http://sewrachel.blogspot.com/2014/04/new-finished-garments-and-marie-jacket.html" target="_blank"><img height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIgz8lsza14x6zbRrNZrgiCnAmt12czdoPIJImN-CtEIuVHnAGI9G8bu7VeAugAYQYnKrLUUHV0HReOha0hndW7YdPfekjPh7zaN7WBrtsNTAJoIn_TOx3ollya-_3VpxDpjWz5F_iglYZ/s200/photo+5%25283%2529.JPG" width="200" /></a> <a href="http://sewrachel.blogspot.com/2014/04/finished-floral-cambie.html" target="_blank"><img height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHBvl9lOxhNaEg2gKUQfeXOfjRMIRwPXDmNTlV0maEbyWK54C_F95jsZgqbo9EIIW3aBz-XxM23Ijk23MJV-Hbe-CnW475Np_Ncm6fkBSSBp_Cijs8eYL1UJvC2utDcOmoL1SOnD6lLog1/s200/image(16).jpg" width="200" /></a> <a href="http://sewrachel.blogspot.com/2014/05/mmm14-update-and-new-tops.html" target="_blank"><img height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizsHnc53I7ucMBDFk2d06_TJb3-as6KlBHB57k52HbKq017QGm3sOf5c_9rvxXGIy8Cdim9gumdZd3VnRZZIMhxLDe-4BdBrR5twD2eJ72An15L_RLYOGnVL9wha3bN3y0abkp3EtIh-8b/s200/photo+1+(3).JPG" width="200" /></a> <a href="http://sewrachel.blogspot.com/2014/05/mmm14-update-and-new-tops.html" target="_blank"><img height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYH5XcQktKNhyZnokpj40XLAD7zWa_ZT5-vA5OVWK8Z3Kk9hvOgUqbaMcYvZLVlWMhnT6WQmJj9YxIoHBHk9F8uxVs47Nj-KYdZqXGSGEg_4Dox_97ty7pVDz4OdSmkzKj39XibGOgNior/s200/photo+4+(1).JPG" width="200" /></a> <a href="http://sewrachel.blogspot.com/2014/05/finished-silk-copy-cat-maxi-dress.html" target="_blank"><img height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbv5VqXLgp5qbLovYx60bBhXfiy3YtgtD1ONO6syzoeB51X34ZxS6disAEficJgzMCWXftk7QSDCFmRSVjvi64NfR4KiM1yvJrQ07ZsfYMEihGtXc3FBDmpJt0N7zea-FbQapzvAyKCqCR/s200/photo+2(12).JPG" width="150" /></a> <a href="http://sewrachel.blogspot.com/2014/05/a-new-lemon-drop-top.html" target="_blank"><img height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv8HCkaOdlKIFKvxvgpAyb_Ixn7Q263beLLZdap4n1Z8Lm_kvGRY0FeTLJCkcPuT_z4ppuULXi1oqW-bA2N_-z7Ma9bow-6p5Lwj2UbwjYctiPwCefEXJH2SaW4bXbdjc7nkl619DXTEVW/s200/photo+1+(14).JPG" width="150" /></a> <a href="http://sewrachel.blogspot.com/2014/06/pattern-testing-ella-tank-for-loila.html" target="_blank"><img height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3EnpH_fiNK3Ox5rXyKy8-53A5m6Zf6fLtYLdzjcILDJH8WRSM9zNzzjbRbGdesD8tzbIdjznvv1ADk9sdHfN8y59xmtgYC1DsREK_QDFc5Bbse6x4Z3OMgP2MVyQKDOqtMJxpj4SUxgF0/s200/photo+2+(7).JPG" width="150" /></a> <a href="http://sewrachel.blogspot.com/2014/06/an-indie-love-affair-with-sbcc-bhl-and.html" target="_blank"><img height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTBNOdc_kzidDtHScJwhgJmItqQptzSvHRnMZjbShVZXB7GEQ6PBPW80UZkZwRgHJqT6sMMzgpJ44-pLyh9eAkdtKjjQkZwc3lSWMt4jgsmqQAz48m3-LA0mbCuSwe3Q6D9k0ArbKqW7tA/s200/photo+(52).JPG" width="200" /></a> <a href="http://sewrachel.blogspot.com/2014/06/my-take-on-trends-neon-and-lace.html" target="_blank"><img height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVlAj4uiwprMm6rQaqBdwKTtFYQZqRIeWNZTHWN6xKurKWPTCA18-jbeyhIpgaebEyO99nirOs4QYR6EDZ3yC1aEHDhpI8jWk0eGrKSfugq-34US8qlNCkQ9ejt7fgtlKuQiPKw9QKdoht/s200/photo+2+(20).JPG" width="150" /></a> <a href="http://sewrachel.blogspot.com/2014/06/the-quest-for-real-pants.html" target="_blank"><img height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLsKNX90CAo_Ss080rnXHwQYv9OD1d-QQ_7DYGAgCCQapNbcvjo6xi235d7jxQoYCZXTq1ja3RBqute3YOedudOp7kjaJlMfj2j3MotTMuhmk5ZGH8BAvQzLMj2H3IteKy1pNqzHoHtpYn/s200/photo+1+%252826%2529.JPG" width="150" /></a> <a href="http://sewrachel.blogspot.com/2014/07/best-sister-ever.html" target="_blank"><img height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9ln73piNdF_I7rGjnSpnGTW0kcBbheubc9BUBifVel-a9LoegjJRPe4kkWi53CTZMw6227D-Dh2A791wWhn61BrXm3nHYPYuqpo0KUz4jWNlOYP6b6ONpEZDu1ybXycFBwQmJ3RHXys2A/s200/image+(83).jpg" width="149" /></a> <a href="http://sewrachel.blogspot.com/2014/07/fun-summer-shorts.html" target="_blank"><img height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvcLkGopmEvgVbExxSuQm5R55ley3EU1e9Jl7lBX_UK0WvQ5zISTAmMwZWPscnOdpb1oY3jnV02cYPOZn8Lodffq9ORIAwUmmBvT8LyvbfrhHTJyOdSvCKcAIagBgvVi-IeC0D0bwsXqNu/s200/photo+2(1).JPG" width="150" /></a></div>
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Not too bad for a year that also started my new line of hand-printed and sewn housewares, <a href="http://www.filbertandmaggie.com/">www.filbertandmaggie.com</a>,, where I started back to school and working again at the university, and a summer mostly filled with personal loss. Some of my favorite makes this year are my <a href="http://sewrachel.blogspot.com/2014/01/not-christmas-party-dress.html" target="_blank">not-a-Christmas-party dress</a>, my <a href="http://sewrachel.blogspot.com/2014/07/fun-summer-shorts.html" target="_blank">ikat Taylor shorts</a>, and <a href="http://sewrachel.blogspot.com/2014/03/a-stylearc-marie-jacket.html" target="_blank">the Marie jacket</a>, which my sister wears all the time. While I intentionally made the <a href="http://sewrachel.blogspot.com/2014/07/best-sister-ever.html" target="_blank">feather-print, jersey maxi-dress</a> for her (and another really lovely, teal, modal jersey version for my sister-in-law), the Marie jacket was supposed to be for me. She also ended up with my <a href="http://sewrachel.blogspot.com/2014/06/pattern-testing-ella-tank-for-loila.html" target="_blank">black-and-white graphic-print Elle top</a>, and the <a href="http://sewrachel.blogspot.com/2014/04/new-finished-garments-and-marie-jacket.html" target="_blank">black polar-fleece jacket </a>fit my mother-in-law perfectly. Damn tall people.... </div>
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I can't look back at 2014 without looking at the launch of my new line hand-designed, hand-printed, and hand-sewn table linens and other items for the home. I'm really proud of myself, and looking forward to what 2015 will bring for<a href="http://www.filbertandmaggie.com/" target="_blank"> Filbert & Maggie Handmade</a>.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHf7Kuz9t-OX-9lPN8UllIjCiHO9TmmQZyabD2xRWZB_Fon-a9fc_Y-ne9YLE0huhp5GmfI530gVTucPzX_IhNwS0G9CliZzs3BSInILs5APn5asFYOREF7kKH0EIz4-ZcvUiILXUW4d8q/s1600/Bunniesweb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHf7Kuz9t-OX-9lPN8UllIjCiHO9TmmQZyabD2xRWZB_Fon-a9fc_Y-ne9YLE0huhp5GmfI530gVTucPzX_IhNwS0G9CliZzs3BSInILs5APn5asFYOREF7kKH0EIz4-ZcvUiILXUW4d8q/s1600/Bunniesweb.jpg" height="267" width="400" /></a></div>
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Posted one year ago, here were my 5 goals for 2014:</div>
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<span style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><b>#1 - Pants - </b>Success!</span></div>
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While the khakis haven't quite made it into regular wardrobe rotation, my black, Elle pants were a big success and worn often when I was filling-in for a a few months as an Activities Director as an assisted living facility. </div>
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<a href="http://sewrachel.blogspot.com/2014/06/the-quest-for-real-pants.html" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium; line-height: normal; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;" target="_blank"><img height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLsKNX90CAo_Ss080rnXHwQYv9OD1d-QQ_7DYGAgCCQapNbcvjo6xi235d7jxQoYCZXTq1ja3RBqute3YOedudOp7kjaJlMfj2j3MotTMuhmk5ZGH8BAvQzLMj2H3IteKy1pNqzHoHtpYn/s200/photo+1+%252826%2529.JPG" width="150" /></a> <a href="http://sewrachel.blogspot.com/2014/02/i-made-pants.html" target="_blank"><img height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifr9jyY69eG_boDBh8tZ6HULKdEiQFzoobXuOMf0BvzJptSQg0HKeJpjM3AlbfR1dB011EPJrhogJvIQlfYTrwlNmDeadLRBJTHRIfWSCkAGTKiZCe2KGQdYABOY2cF3m8sXfBUtNUUuCG/s200/photo+1.JPG" width="137" /></a></div>
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<b style="line-height: 18.4799995422363px;"><br />#2 - Swimsuit - </b><span style="line-height: 18.4799995422363px;">Fail</span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 18.4799995422363px;">I had a good start on it before my personal life put sewing to the back-seat this summer. </span></div>
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<a href="http://sewrachel.blogspot.com/2014/07/update.html" target="_blank"><img height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifbk-0eoNMtMO-mDVPSHBYHD9IMh0aNGFnz0j76CY7GaEu8wTrR05qpQwdG1LgUolnc-sK2E4tUoZixEOzJ-WkPS-MVve00LdUqTQ4JREACrZU1bMLLV17h-jmD0F3fPm9GcAGlAXuN8jA/s200/photo+4+(18).JPG" width="200" /> <img height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsqiIj5LXvJs1aaGYE1y4z7SpsnPmqQqx6y4Yg7Yckr6XOqHWwU1WFmKZ6gwaq703I5OPIptkcEkaxn6taAWfaHPl9uMRhUp7VT9ZDwCq6_E3mCKbgZAonLcsS_xsRE2kYKNzRKZkm4LRb/s200/photo+2+(26).JPG" style="background-color: transparent;" width="200" /></a></div>
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<b>#3 - Underwear - </b>Made.... but not really worn.</div>
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I have on a couple of occasions worn my <a href="http://sewrachel.blogspot.com/2014/01/ginger-high-waist-panties-2014-goal.html" target="_blank">high-waist Ohhh Lulu undies</a>, but I could definitely improve in the home-made underwear department. I think if I could nail down a everyday-wear pattern, making undies could be a great, simple project for me in-between all my other commitments right now! </div>
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<b>#4 - Coat/Jacket - </b>two lightweight jackets made, but I kept neither. They both came out really great, if only they fit me better. They are getting a lot of use from my sister and mother-in-law.</div>
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<b>#5</b> - <b>Teaching...</b></div>
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Yeah, not so much. I have been helping many of my studio-mates at <a href="http://www.rwsartstudios.com/" target="_blank">Running with Scissors</a> with screenprinting, but not yet teaching for pay. </div>
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As for goals for 2015... I'm going to keep it simple this year: see where <a href="http://www.filbertandmaggie.com/" target="_blank">Filbert and Maggie</a> takes me, and find the time and inspiration to sew garments for me again. And on that note, have a very <b>happy New Year and see you in 2015!</b></div>
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sew rachel!http://www.blogger.com/profile/06569084994328220284noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1733722403586810555.post-41954077086382693782014-10-24T14:53:00.001-04:002014-10-24T14:55:27.917-04:00what's rachel been sewing lately?Hello sewing blog friends! I know it's been a while, but now I can show you what I've been up to and why you haven't seen me on sew rachel! Today I launched my online shop of hand-printed, hand-sewn table linens: <a href="http://www.filbertandmaggie.com/">www.filbertandmaggie.com</a>! The shop opens today with 7 designs of cotton cloth napkins (there were 8 designs, but one already sold out!). New items will be added in the next few weeks, including tote-bags, zipper pouches, place mats, and a new fabric design currently in the works! I want to thank <a href="http://www.kawilber.com/" target="_blank">Katie Wilbe</a>r for the product photography and I look forward doing more work with her in the future. I hope you can check it out, and know I will be back to regularly-programmed sewing soon!<br />
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<br />sew rachel!http://www.blogger.com/profile/06569084994328220284noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1733722403586810555.post-70218348396272362532014-08-07T08:04:00.003-04:002014-08-07T08:04:55.867-04:00and the bunnies go to....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Thank you, Mr. Sew Rachel, for drawing a name before you scoot off to work! Sarah, I will be in touch shortly!sew rachel!http://www.blogger.com/profile/06569084994328220284noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1733722403586810555.post-22586187054351518742014-08-01T13:57:00.004-04:002014-08-01T15:13:22.620-04:00filbert & maggie giveaway!<span style="background-color: white; color: #707070; font-family: 'Droid Sans', Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 21.00792121887207px;">Here is anther peek at my new project launching this fall, </span><strong style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #707070; font-family: 'Droid Sans', Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 21.00792121887207px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Filbert & Maggie Handmade</strong><span style="background-color: white; color: #707070; font-family: 'Droid Sans', Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 21.00792121887207px;">, and a chance to own one of the first sets of 2 hand-printed and hand-sewn Maggie May napkins! Just leave a comment below by August 4th at 8AM (EST) if you are interested in the goldenrod Maggie May-print napkins seen here to be entered, and in return I just ask for you to use ‘em, wash ‘em, and let me know how they do. Open worldwide, so thank you in advance and good luck!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #707070; font-family: Droid Sans, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i><span style="line-height: 21.00792121887207px;">Note: Giveaway is also open at <a href="http://www.rachelchurch.com/">www.rachelchurch.com</a>, but there will only be ONE winner. The names from both sites will be entered into one drawing, but commenting on both sites WILL count as two entries!</span></i></span></span>sew rachel!http://www.blogger.com/profile/06569084994328220284noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1733722403586810555.post-13361330655977555572014-07-26T11:07:00.000-04:002014-07-26T11:10:27.695-04:00fun summer shorts!I actually made these a few weeks ago and have just gotten around to photographing them. Aren't they cute?! Inspired by <a href="http://sewcialists.wordpress.com/2014/07/01/its-oonapalooza-time/" target="_blank">Oonapalooza </a>I decided to work on the things in my "to-sew" queue that involved a fun, bright print, and so it bumped these fun shorts up to the top of the list! You know how sometimes you have so many sewing projects swirling around in your head that you can't pick and none of them get made? A project like <a href="http://sewcialists.wordpress.com/2014/07/01/its-oonapalooza-time/" target="_blank">Oonapalozza</a> is great for those times as it gives you some criteria to help you get over that what-to-sew-next hump! I'm so glad, too, because they are really comfortable to wear, and just plan fun.<br />
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I used a PDF pattern by <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/GreenStyleCreations" target="_blank">GreenStyle Creations</a> called the Taylor Shorts, and some fun, bottom-weight fabric from the Joann's clearance rack with just a tiny bit of stretch. The pattern was purchased through a <a href="http://bundleupsale.com/shop/" target="_blank">Bundle Up Sale</a> hosted by <a href="http://patternrevolution.com/" target="_blank">Pattern Revolution</a>. It was very easy to print and tape together, and the whole thing took an afternoon to make from pattern-printing to wearing!<br />
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I made a size 4 with the 2" inseam with no pattern alterations.... and they fit! Even in the butt! The only thing I would change next time is to take out probably an inch and a half from the front rise, but for this pair it's no big deal.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>I ALMOST had the pattern matched perfectly!</i></td></tr>
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The fly instructions seemed very clear... until I realized I had sewn everything only to one side of the opening... so they wouldn't close. I started to wing it at that point and ended up sewing the whole thing to both sides... so then it couldn't open! Third time I got it, and overall with very little unpicking. I used a couple of flap trouser hooks-and-eyes and a <a href="http://sewrachel.blogspot.com/2013/10/new-pants.html" target="_blank">recycled zipper taken from the ankle opening of a pair of pants I shortened</a>. <br />
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Overall, a great pattern that I would totally recommend to anyone wanting shorts! It comes in three inseams with nice pockets, and the instructions are great! (as I suspect if I had paid more attention the fly instructions would have worked out perfectly the first time...)<br />
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<br />sew rachel!http://www.blogger.com/profile/06569084994328220284noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1733722403586810555.post-71779577138525881082014-07-19T12:48:00.000-04:002014-07-19T12:48:12.926-04:00best. sister. ever.That's me.... BEST SISTER EVER... in case you didn't know. Why? Because I made my little sister this for her 26th birthday:<br />
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A cotton jersey, peacock feather, maxi-dress! With a racer-back!<br />
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The fabric is from <a href="http://girlcharlee.com/">GirlCharlee.com</a>. This was my first experience with them. Their fabric is very affordable and the service is excellent. You can get up to four swatches free, just ask. The pattern is <a href="http://mccallpattern.mccall.com/m6744-products-46524.php?page_id=96" target="_blank">McCalls 6744</a>. What's great about sewing for my sister is that I usually don't have to make any pattern adjustments. She is a perfectly proportioned for the most Big-4 patterns, and even the design height at 5'7". Despite out different heights and body shapes, we have about the same bust-waist-hip measurements, so I can make her dress right out of the envelope, try it on me and know what I'll need to adjust when I make a version for myself (navy with polka-dots maybe?). </div>
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This dress is very easy, and you can get a maxi-dress out of just 2 yards of 60-wide fabric. The whole dress took me 3 hours, including cutting out the 4 pieces. The neck and arm holes are finished with a simple narrow hem; a breeze on stable, cotton jersey. I didn't measure, press or pin before stitching, just eye-balled it as I sewed and it came out pretty good!</div>
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My serger needs a new cutting blade, otherwise I totally would have done the side seams on it. Instead I did two lines of narrow zig-zag stitching then clipped my seam allowance close. </div>
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I'm quite pleased and hope she is too! I suspect a cool cotton jersey maxidress will get a lot of wear when the days get hot in Philadelphia. <a href="http://sewcialists.wordpress.com/2014/07/01/its-oonapalooza-time/" target="_blank">And given the timing... would Oona approve of this make?</a><br />
<br />sew rachel!http://www.blogger.com/profile/06569084994328220284noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1733722403586810555.post-28348854351170407132014-07-03T18:30:00.003-04:002014-07-03T19:15:16.896-04:00updateHey sewing/blogging friends! It's been a while! I wanted to let you all know that I haven't forgotten you, and to let you know what I've been up to in the last three weeks. Part of my blogging absence has been due to some sadness. Mr. Sew Rachel and I lost our very special pet Filbert to a difficult illness. He was such a little fighter! He will be very, very missed but I'm glad he doesn't have to fight it anymore. At the same time my grandfather took very ill, and the hardest part with that is the lack of answers regarding what the future holds. We are very close, so it's been tough stuff...<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Filbert (grey) with his best buddy Parfait (tan) about 6 weeks ago when we first started fighting what started as a small ear infection. That wooden hidey-house in the background was his favorite hangout. </i></td></tr>
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It's been really nice to be able to sew during this time. I made my sister a neon, coral top out of the same rayon fabric I used for my <a href="http://sewrachel.blogspot.com/2014/06/my-take-on-trends-neon-and-lace.html" target="_blank">2nd Ella Tank</a>. I used <a href="http://sewrachel.blogspot.com/2013/05/a-bright-casual-mccalls-6751-for-summer.html" target="_blank">my McCalls 6751</a> pattern, adding about 4 inches of length to front by copying the shape from the Ella Tank hemline. Of course, it looks great on her! I also sent her some undies made from the <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/175085804/lingerie-panties-sewing-pattern-ohhh?ref=shop_home_active_8" target="_blank">Ohhh Lulu Grace Pattern</a> and some awesome <a href="http://www.girlcharlee.com/soft-summer-feathers-on-white-cotton-jersey-blend-knit-fabric/girl-charlee-p-9919.html" target="_blank">GirlCharlee.com feather-print fabric</a>.<br />
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She also sent me this picture the other day, rocking my <a href="http://sewrachel.blogspot.com/2014/06/pattern-testing-ella-tank-for-loila.html" target="_blank">first Ella Tank</a> and the <a href="http://sewrachel.blogspot.com/2013/12/merry-chirstmas.html" target="_blank">fold-over tote</a> I made for her for Christmas! And the Grace Hipsters that you can't see :)</div>
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I have been working on a bombshell-inspired tankini, which originally I was altering a dress pattern to create. So I was pretty excited when Simplicity came out with pretty much the exact look I was trying to achieve!</div>
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I measure at size 14, which according the pattern showed the negative ease you want from a stretchy fabric, but when I stitched up the bust it was GINORMOUS! I took out about 4 inches all together from the side seams, and it's still too big. I sewed in some bust cups that I had cut out from an old bra... and <i>still too big!</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifbk-0eoNMtMO-mDVPSHBYHD9IMh0aNGFnz0j76CY7GaEu8wTrR05qpQwdG1LgUolnc-sK2E4tUoZixEOzJ-WkPS-MVve00LdUqTQ4JREACrZU1bMLLV17h-jmD0F3fPm9GcAGlAXuN8jA/s1600/photo+4+(18).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifbk-0eoNMtMO-mDVPSHBYHD9IMh0aNGFnz0j76CY7GaEu8wTrR05qpQwdG1LgUolnc-sK2E4tUoZixEOzJ-WkPS-MVve00LdUqTQ4JREACrZU1bMLLV17h-jmD0F3fPm9GcAGlAXuN8jA/s1600/photo+4+(18).JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv9680yGPu_w5VqJuo_nUJzqe6hFD3sPhCvl8xWn8_U1A0xH6uyQuglVBbbPckjCjzTvTDF1R09JbJ1pmtK1I4N08kLg4rp_UU1R3GuOm6Y5JI1o_UBNNg2WYE5kxJk-NnKkkQ-shQ8M3m/s1600/photo+3+(25).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv9680yGPu_w5VqJuo_nUJzqe6hFD3sPhCvl8xWn8_U1A0xH6uyQuglVBbbPckjCjzTvTDF1R09JbJ1pmtK1I4N08kLg4rp_UU1R3GuOm6Y5JI1o_UBNNg2WYE5kxJk-NnKkkQ-shQ8M3m/s1600/photo+3+(25).JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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So I tried on the test garment I had started last year for modifying <span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;"> </span><a href="http://kwiksew.mccall.com/k3761-products-20294.php?page_id=3034&search_control=display&list=0" style="background-color: white; color: #c05cc2; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;" target="_blank">Kwik Sew 3761</a><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="line-height: 18.479999542236328px;">, and found that this had more bust support without cups than the Simplicity pattern had with cups! Plus, the Kwik Sew pattern has separate bust lining pattern (vs. just a second layer of ruched fabric the same as the main fabric) </span></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;">pieces which</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;"> not only supply more support</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;"> on their own, but are the perfect shape for sewing in swimwear cups. So I'm ditching S1374 and continuing with my original plan.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlrU4PhjEs43lm4V1DlbcpDCmv95MyJEI3nLJb0uMJzOUu96P5UFz3EEo_RUjw_bCPJYlDDJw0PnBv4vIizt9NUkiDYrQl6eROXk1V5oUV9I9fIylQUqvKri2WMMx-Nnui5bTcBLL9UCf-/s1600/photo+1+(29).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlrU4PhjEs43lm4V1DlbcpDCmv95MyJEI3nLJb0uMJzOUu96P5UFz3EEo_RUjw_bCPJYlDDJw0PnBv4vIizt9NUkiDYrQl6eROXk1V5oUV9I9fIylQUqvKri2WMMx-Nnui5bTcBLL9UCf-/s1600/photo+1+(29).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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I've also been working some more on my project combining my fine-art practice and my sewing practice. I won't be fully revealing the project until early fall, but until then here's a sneak peak!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>A hand-painted screen for printing, not yet dry!</i></td></tr>
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<br />sew rachel!http://www.blogger.com/profile/06569084994328220284noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1733722403586810555.post-28925392994705725712014-06-12T11:15:00.001-04:002014-06-12T11:15:18.143-04:00something a little different...As some may know, I am also a working artist and print-maker, but have been hesitant to share much from that part of my life on this blog, keeping my personal creating separate from my professional creating. But today I have something I'd like to share that crosses both realms, and I would love to get some feedback from my sewing-blogging friends!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7_SifhOjrVhY9mgd_KXzrg7UVcG5FhUFesuJsABI7cwxD92KS2gblfLxCvDUR0U-rxSZDYoMaqKGv_wF6sdlPVu0VUDJ9qVDQB4grAGMw9K_kyjh_KdDYqCAqC0k1kThkUMOEXcn3-uZG/s1600/photo+2+(24).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7_SifhOjrVhY9mgd_KXzrg7UVcG5FhUFesuJsABI7cwxD92KS2gblfLxCvDUR0U-rxSZDYoMaqKGv_wF6sdlPVu0VUDJ9qVDQB4grAGMw9K_kyjh_KdDYqCAqC0k1kThkUMOEXcn3-uZG/s1600/photo+2+(24).JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfjAGaOP2Rb6WHP1l60x9k_7IsQ0HVWQCybYLub7QDW3adO0JUxxu8ltz4ZdDPVHYkCiPZiplDcRNLgockSce3y0O8g7ELwn6Gh7P2pHlNSulY1on0GGaUWqymVz4QPoUGCEGkyYo8Uyj4/s1600/photo+4+(17).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfjAGaOP2Rb6WHP1l60x9k_7IsQ0HVWQCybYLub7QDW3adO0JUxxu8ltz4ZdDPVHYkCiPZiplDcRNLgockSce3y0O8g7ELwn6Gh7P2pHlNSulY1on0GGaUWqymVz4QPoUGCEGkyYo8Uyj4/s1600/photo+4+(17).JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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This is my first test-run of hand-printed fabric! I drew by hand the kale drawing onto a clear Mylar sheet, then transferred that image to a photo-sensitive silkscreen (using the sun!), and then screen-printed it on to 3 yards of green, cotton fabric (cut into 1/2 pieces to be easier to handle).</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBRKQVeHoDvfsS6wJZtVyUEc0O5Lq0WhSP06hSuyXeMZxZ9m_joJMP9U4Ef99WvNXzgqio1K36ERM9ZeR6JhtjF6AGaZVIwBpQP8S_PRi-Sw-kvG0naDehQR__dn4Q7IDM4DFI_kWNEfVW/s1600/photo+1+(28).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBRKQVeHoDvfsS6wJZtVyUEc0O5Lq0WhSP06hSuyXeMZxZ9m_joJMP9U4Ef99WvNXzgqio1K36ERM9ZeR6JhtjF6AGaZVIwBpQP8S_PRi-Sw-kvG0naDehQR__dn4Q7IDM4DFI_kWNEfVW/s1600/photo+1+(28).JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>detail of the drawing on Mylar</i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyzV7xBI-5Rkwv8a559w-99ku-cRPGh-1wFS8LGvTjyZHlP_u_jDSNNiBroaVuwUSV6ULjzeqewyoooUwUuwIt7O0kV0NFKXb3wptMgeIhJvZpMnVVlikIrmbMMhtaBCH7NiN998Yzl0aD/s1600/photo+2+(25).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyzV7xBI-5Rkwv8a559w-99ku-cRPGh-1wFS8LGvTjyZHlP_u_jDSNNiBroaVuwUSV6ULjzeqewyoooUwUuwIt7O0kV0NFKXb3wptMgeIhJvZpMnVVlikIrmbMMhtaBCH7NiN998Yzl0aD/s1600/photo+2+(25).JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>my silkscreen after the sun-exposure, drying at the studio</i></td></tr>
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My screen didn't expose as perfectly as I'd like, and you can see some areas that didn't print as well because of that, but I that's the beauty of a handmade item; it's not supposed to be machine-perfect. I'm thinking about sewing the printed fabrics into table linens, or even packaging them up as fat-quarters for others to create with. What would you make or like to see made from this fabric? What kind or images would you like to see screen-printed on fabric?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9TrYCI9od3FP-tEctfsh9W9NvuijPGFx7fGqasNTZgvLUBFUecHG_qsnV0KAFWPMkNKmxZA4Pd7wCwT1YZ8WtWNfN5h0rbey7ydRuk8AK-2MhQbz67_NyGtsZo6m2dzA2OO0gNGq6gXNP/s1600/photo+5+%252813%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9TrYCI9od3FP-tEctfsh9W9NvuijPGFx7fGqasNTZgvLUBFUecHG_qsnV0KAFWPMkNKmxZA4Pd7wCwT1YZ8WtWNfN5h0rbey7ydRuk8AK-2MhQbz67_NyGtsZo6m2dzA2OO0gNGq6gXNP/s1600/photo+5+%252813%2529.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<br />sew rachel!http://www.blogger.com/profile/06569084994328220284noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1733722403586810555.post-38240776836920474212014-06-07T13:46:00.000-04:002014-06-07T13:46:00.056-04:00the quest for real pants<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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While I've had some good success with the <a href="http://sewrachel.blogspot.com/2014/02/i-made-pants.html" target="_blank">Elle Pants</a>... I felt I really needed to make some <i>real </i>pants, with a fly and pockets. So for the last month I've been working on and off on <a href="http://www.simplicity.com/p-8467-misses-miss-petite-amazing-fit-pants.aspx" target="_blank">Simplicity 1969 Amazing Fit Pants</a>, and finally have something to show you.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLsKNX90CAo_Ss080rnXHwQYv9OD1d-QQ_7DYGAgCCQapNbcvjo6xi235d7jxQoYCZXTq1ja3RBqute3YOedudOp7kjaJlMfj2j3MotTMuhmk5ZGH8BAvQzLMj2H3IteKy1pNqzHoHtpYn/s1600/photo+1+%252826%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLsKNX90CAo_Ss080rnXHwQYv9OD1d-QQ_7DYGAgCCQapNbcvjo6xi235d7jxQoYCZXTq1ja3RBqute3YOedudOp7kjaJlMfj2j3MotTMuhmk5ZGH8BAvQzLMj2H3IteKy1pNqzHoHtpYn/s1600/photo+1+%252826%2529.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlmsWl3U2xIpL37UwNmEzTMC8__qHsbGsUa7kFf-mIITN_QYL8yPyWC7lQnDrXvbcK6BPKt2sijTH1AuAbhk8jNn6bTs2JKa3nu6RW30n-cLf9wUktb0ye1TRLR1JkG3VT4Zv37j3hZEwq/s1600/photo+2+%252823%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlmsWl3U2xIpL37UwNmEzTMC8__qHsbGsUa7kFf-mIITN_QYL8yPyWC7lQnDrXvbcK6BPKt2sijTH1AuAbhk8jNn6bTs2JKa3nu6RW30n-cLf9wUktb0ye1TRLR1JkG3VT4Zv37j3hZEwq/s1600/photo+2+%252823%2529.JPG" height="320" width="239" /></a></div>
I used a mid-heavyweight khaki with a fair amount of stretch that came from my mom's stash. The fit actually looks much better in these pictures then how I feel they look (and feel) in real life. I worked really hard on these and in some areas they look really nice, like the pocket construction and the "carriers" (aka belt-loops... didn't know that when I started!). I tapered the legs in even more (even though it's a "slim pant" pattern) to try and get a more modern look. The pattern is designed to be worn 1 1/2" below the waist, which I learned was too high especially on my short frame. At this point I'd already inserted the fly, and there was no way I was ripping that out again after the number of attempts I made to get it in! I was able to lower the front rise by a little over and inch when I attached the waistband. Unfortunately that wasn't enough, and I had to rip out the crotch seams to be able to take in another 3/4" from the front rise there... probably not the correct way to go about that.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>backside looks good!</i></td></tr>
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<img height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwOziRnpKTcrHjBMvwIORIc3gbGK-Akm_3ETV0KFcyOd_L3RJxdHqS2QUKc0W66pS2UK6cfmY0kOc92RSaE7dwvcZgM8jdy4sKpH0TUXBjFxbEyoJaa7Kkn6QrsBivPb_FT22PTZsiC3HA/s1600/photo+5+%252812%2529.JPG" width="300" /></div>
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The rise still feels too high in the front, and the waistband ended up a little too big so they like creep... no, <i>rapidly</i> settle to a more natural, lower pants position on my body. All the previous pictures are with a belt to hold them up, and there still feels like a lot of extra fabric in the front. And if you take the belt off:<br />
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I don't know if you can tell... but the crotch seam of the pants is, like, 3 inches from it's anatomical counterpart. And it's uncomfortable as they move all around (and down!) with every little movement I make. And apparently I can't sit down at all:</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>AHHHHH!</i></td></tr>
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And that picture is with the belt! After reading a pants post by <i><a href="http://notesfromamadhousewife.wordpress.com/2014/06/06/burda-spring-cigarette-pants/" target="_blank">notes from a mad housewife</a>,</i> I tried scooping out (and down) the back center curve and that seems to help a little with the extra fabric in the front. Should I have also scooped the front curve as well? Or added more crotch depth before I even started? Part of the problem with pants is than I'm not even sure how to diagnose the fit problems, so I then can address them more properly.<b> Any thoughts or experience with this issue? Since the fabric has stretch, would it be beneficial to stitch in some firm ribbon to keep the waistband from stretching?</b> (Even though I did use some interfacing.) </div>
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So overall... with a belt these could be acceptable pants when business casual is required... as long as I don't sit down. If I try this pattern again I'll lower the rise even more before inserting the fly, or maybe look at the <a href="http://www.sbccpatterns.com/shop/sb326-manhattan-trousers/" target="_blank">SBCC Manhattan Trousers</a>, which is already designed for a shorter rise. Or just make more <a href="http://sewrachel.blogspot.com/2014/02/i-made-pants.html" target="_blank">Elle Pants</a>:</div>
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<img alt="http://sewrachel.blogspot.com/2014/02/i-made-pants.html" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifr9jyY69eG_boDBh8tZ6HULKdEiQFzoobXuOMf0BvzJptSQg0HKeJpjM3AlbfR1dB011EPJrhogJvIQlfYTrwlNmDeadLRBJTHRIfWSCkAGTKiZCe2KGQdYABOY2cF3m8sXfBUtNUUuCG/s320/photo+1.JPG" width="220" /></div>
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No, you don't need to adjust your monitor... that's actually pretty close to the real color of this top! I've been thinking about trying the neon trend in a simple tank like this. I was leaning towards a vibrant pink, but having a hard time finding the right shade that would look good on me in a nice fabric. But then while checking out <a href="http://www.anthropologie.com/anthro/index.jsp" target="_blank">Anthropologie</a> (for the first time!) in Philadelphia I saw a <i>gorgeous </i>silk tank in a super-bright, vibrant coral. Perfect! Oh, did I want to buy that tank! But I didn't, and later in the trip exploring Fabric Row (very cool!) my sister found the near identical color on a crowded shop shelf! For only $6/yard! And in a lovely, drapey rayon.... I love rayon. It's not exactly a neon, but super-bright! It's almost a red, and almost a coral, and almost like the most vibrant, dark watermelon you've ever seen... yum! And probably more flattering on me than a traditional neon would be.<br />
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This is another version of the <a href="http://www.lioladesigns.com/2014/05/ella-top-pdf-sewing-pattern.html" target="_blank">Ella Tank</a> <a href="http://sewrachel.blogspot.com/2014/06/pattern-testing-ella-tank-for-loila.html" target="_blank">I recently pattern tested for Liola Patterns</a>. This time I cut a size small and shortened it about 1.5" at the waistline. I also decided to take advantage of the yoke design feature to play with another trend: lace! Lace on neon coral? Ummm... yes!<br />
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I always have a hard time with this style of finishing the arm and neck openings; making a bias strip that is turned under and sewn to conceal the raw edge, almost like a very thin facing. I can never get it to lay flat when worn, or end up pressing little wrinkles along the neckline to make it lie flat (any tips would be totally appreciated!). I wish I had bound it similar to my <a href="http://sewrachel.blogspot.com/2014/05/mmm14-update-and-new-tops.html" target="_blank">fishy tank</a> or <a href="http://sewrachel.blogspot.com/2014/05/a-new-lemon-drop-top.html" target="_blank">Lemon Drop Top</a> where the bias binding is exposed on both sides, like you would bind a quilt. It would be especially nice with this lovely, light rayon! I also made a few wrinkles on one section of my narrow hem:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjieje0TyzQn961HFkygnGf69cTIS-1uLm1kjh2YxVNX_4z8jf6mGFyL-UfEGAGmAGrzayQrK_Y1AWC-eEUxN7TmgH8GJVWjJQAWMjRyENdhAn1TJpvCJ4rG_g4ls9oBdMjdWKCQAwWYT5m/s1600/photo+4+(14).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjieje0TyzQn961HFkygnGf69cTIS-1uLm1kjh2YxVNX_4z8jf6mGFyL-UfEGAGmAGrzayQrK_Y1AWC-eEUxN7TmgH8GJVWjJQAWMjRyENdhAn1TJpvCJ4rG_g4ls9oBdMjdWKCQAwWYT5m/s1600/photo+4+(14).JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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When altering the pattern I did not take any length out above the bust or from the straps, and decided that a low neckline would be ok with this kind of drapey, summer top. But, once constructed I discovered that the bust points were also way too low. How did I not notice that the <a href="http://sewrachel.blogspot.com/2014/06/pattern-testing-ella-tank-for-loila.html" target="_blank">last time I made it</a>? So I had to take up the straps after I'd already bound the neck and arm openings, tacking them down so it doesn't show too bad:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2pMASpAdALJoTRJRahcvfmg7u2zt49bQzVfgMP6cR9j0a2H5bHDh-9XUDL_TRaJuGuUVXVvPbpEH-aVqvDzrNKJNzk7spj1Qn-P36gPaaxjHiGHiCyWUGcG-sIjmv3GIBck24jJBPyTP0/s1600/photo+5+(10).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2pMASpAdALJoTRJRahcvfmg7u2zt49bQzVfgMP6cR9j0a2H5bHDh-9XUDL_TRaJuGuUVXVvPbpEH-aVqvDzrNKJNzk7spj1Qn-P36gPaaxjHiGHiCyWUGcG-sIjmv3GIBck24jJBPyTP0/s1600/photo+5+(10).JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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So now the side seam doesn't hang straight, but oh well. Still a very cool, comfortable <i>almost-perfect </i>summer top. I'll make sure to lower the straps and arm opening evenly on both the front and back pattern pieces before I cut out my fabric next time I make this top. Then the fit should be just perfect!</div>
<br />sew rachel!http://www.blogger.com/profile/06569084994328220284noreply@blogger.com2