me-made-may eve

Last year was my first Me-Made May, and I was so proud of myself! I well exceed my goal of at least 2 handmade items per week, and that's after only a few months sewing. This year, I'm upping my game:

'I, Rachel of sewrachel.blogspot.com, sign up as a participant of Me-Made-May '14. I endeavor to wear at least one handmade item each day for the duration of May 2014'

Woo hoo! Getting ready for wearing handmade everyday I've been repairing and altering a couple of items, including taking a wedge out for the back waist of my Grainline Moss Mini, and have been thinking about what are my needs and wants in my wardrobe that can be filled. Sure, I'd love to spend all mt time whipping up another batch of floral Cambies, but what is really going to be practical day to day? Where do you find that sewing balance of pretty once-in-a-while dresses, and practical basics and separates? Not to mention, I'm now heading back into the art studio full-time... not exactly a place to wear precious, handmade beauties. So here's my plan (after my black, silk/cotton maxidress, of course... which is both a practical wardrobe staple AND luxurious sewing!):

Needs:

• More pants. I have the fabric to attempt another grey pair of StyleARC Elle Pants, but also should look for some other comfortable, casual, easy pants.
• A spring jacket. Yes, many of you thought my last polar fleece attempt looked nice... but it just doesn't fit they way I want and therefore uncomfortable to wear. Any good spring jacket ideas? 
• Knit dresses. I have lots of casual knits and dress patterns ready to go... just need to get on 'em!
• Maxiskirts and dresses. I wore these all the time last year! 
• Casual tops that go with everything. Why are these so hard to sew? Or at least so hard to want to sew?  Maybe a Grainline Hemlock tee, and some Sewaholic Renfrews.
• Studio clothing. Something quick and easy to sew, inexpensive, and comfortable. Maybe I can start making muslins into wearable studio clothing, or take a trip to the thrift store for some re-fashioning. 

Want:

• Swimsuit. You may remember this was one of my 5 goals for 2014, and while I don't NEED a swimsuit (I have a boring black one that works just fine...), I am so making this. I already have everything I need for this project, too.
• Shorts. I haven't bought shorts in years, but would love a really nice fitting tan pair, and maybe a cool, printed pair in something like an ikat. Pattern options include Grainline Maritime Shorts or Sewaholic Thurkow Trousers
• Circle Skirt Cambies! Including one for my 2-year wedding anniversary. 
• An amazing red day dress. I've always wanted one and should make that happen.
• A Patterns by Gertie slip. I even ordered her slip kit, and she's currently hosting a sew-along.
• Some pretty pajamas. Not a need, but a very much would-like.
• A casual By Hand London Georgia Dress. This is where I could use some help. What fabric could I use to make this dress a more casual summer option? I love the fit, but remember I live in Maine... not exactly the fashion capital of the world. I'd love to make a version of this dress that can be worn to a casual BBQ, or just out for coffee, etc.
• Make a button-up shirt for Mr. Sew Rachel. Maybe I can make him one for our anniversary? That would be a great goal... although I've never made a real button-up shirt before... or menswear!

Wow... that's a lot. While I most likely will not accomplish everything, participating in Me-Made-May will help me to prioritize what to make and maybe keep me focused enough to get a fair number checked off this list in the next few months.

You can learn more about MMM'14 and sign up at "So Zo, What Do You Know" by clicking on the image below: