Thursday, July 31, 2014

Summer to Fall Wardrobe Continues...

What did you think of the last grouping of patterns?  Did you see anything of interest?  Here's another set of patterns and notions to consider:


This is The Perfect T-Shirt pattern by Pamela's Patterns.  This pattern has 3 necklines and 4 sleeve lengths.  Some very nice variety.  When selecting a size, measure snugly.   If you need more variety, try adding this pattern:


This is an the New Necklines & Sleeves for The Perfect T-Shirt pattern.  This pattern adds 4 necklines and 2 sleeve types.  Also included is directions for creating tunic length shirt and a dress length using the Perfect T-shirt pattern.   In addition to the add-on pattern, there is also a DVD:


The Perfect T-Shirt DVD  information on size selection, fitting, and variations. 


This is The Magic Pencil Skirt pattern by Pamela's Pattern.  This is a great, knit skirt.  It gets some great reviews.  The pattern includes two versions, provides fitting instructions, and can be completed in under an hour.  Don't forget the following notion:


This is Fantastic Elastic.  It comes in 4 yard lengths in two different colors.  You can cut it to the width that you want without raveling or compromising the stretch.

Hope your inspired.

Happy Stitching!

Tuesday, July 29, 2014

Summer to Fall Wardrobes....

Are you looking toward fall and thinking about what clothes you may need?  This is what I have been doing.  Here's a few ideas for you:

Jacket:


This is the Jordan Jacket pattern by Serendipity Studio.  Make it causal from denim or choose a different fabric for a couture vibe.  Sizes:  XXS to XXL

Dress:


This is the Kiss Dress pattern.  It has two options with two lengths.  Make the purple version for a great summer to fall pull-over casual dress or make the floral version with darts and a zipper for a great work dress or little black dress version.

Pants:


This is the Juniper Pant pant pattern by Colette Patterns.  This is a classic wide-leg trouser.  Make it causal or work worthy depending on your fabric choice.

Tops:


This is the Versatile Twin Set pattern by Pamela's patterns.  This pattern offers a variety of cardigans with a sleeveless top.  Perfect for the summer to fall wardrobe or air conditioning. 

Hope I've sparked some ideas.

Happy Sewing!

Tuesday, July 22, 2014

Christmas is Just Around The Corner....

I know. I know.  It’s seems like it’s a long time in the future but in reality it’s only 155 days away or just over 22 weeks away.  If you’re like me, most items need to be completed or purchased no later than 127 days or just over 18 weeks.  That gives time to get them packed and mailed.  I’m rarely lucky enough to get to sew right up till Christmas.  If you want to create some holiday decorations, you will need to shave off a couple more weeks.  Doesn’t that make the time fly? 


Here’s a few ideas for decorations:

 
 
Isn't this a cute table topper?  This is the Tabletop Tannebaum pattern by Poorhouse Quilts.  So cute!  The finished size is approximately 13" tall and if you make the tree skirt 12" in diameter.  It is rated for an advanced beginner. 


Here's a cute little advent calendar. It's the Countdown pattern by Hunter's Design Studio.  Size is 12" x 44".  This could also be used to countdown other occasions depending on the fabric used.


How about some stocking?  This is the Mini Stockings pattern by Fig Tree Quilts.  These are cute, little stockings. Finished size is approximately  6 1/2" X 8 1/2".


For those with machine embroidery, let's not forget a notebook cover to keep up with all the plans.  This is the Santa Notebook Covers pattern by Sew Michelle.  It includes instructions to create a Santa cover for a spiral notebook size:  8" x 10 1/2" and a Santa cover for a 6" x 9" Steno notepad.  What a fun way to keep up with your plans!

These patterns are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to project to decorate with.  Think pillows, throws, placemats, table runners, tree skirt, along with gifts but that will be another post.

Happy Sewing!

 

Tuesday, July 15, 2014

Osnaburg, The Fabric


What do you know about Osnaburg?  Have you used this fabric?  I’ve used this fabric for at least 30 years and have made curtains, towels, pillows, and embroidery, using it. 


Osnaburg, defined*:

This is a type of coarse, heavy cloth, originally of linen and now of cotton, used in making sacks, work clothes, etc. 


Origin of osnaburg*:

altered after Osnabrück, Germany origin, originally made


Uses:

Curtains, placemats, towels, pillows, bags, quilting projects, doll bodies, costumes, etc.  This is a good, general all-fabric.
 

Embellishing:

Stenciling or painting, embroidery – hand and machine with a backing for support, ruching, dying

 

Trolling the internet finds all kinds of projects made using osnaburg – table runners, placemats, quilts, craft projects, baby slings, jedi costumes.  Have you made using osnaburg fabric?  What did you make?

Happy Sewing!

 

*definition and origin information from yourdictionary.com

Thursday, July 10, 2014

Inspiration...Summer Dress

I found this lovely little Eileen ensemble:


Although the slip dress is sold out, the original price was $238.00 and the lace cardigan price was $228.00.  The slip dress is a linen blend.

Here's a couple of slip dress patterns that would give you a similar look/feel:


This is the Colette Cinnamon dress pattern.  This is an OOP pattern from Colette.

Next is this pattern:


This is the Roundabout Dress & Slip pattern by Anna Maria Horner.  You get 3 other bonus patterns with this one.

Are you wondering about the cardigan?  It is fairly easy to create this type of a pattern using a t-shirt pattern.  You would need to lengthen the pattern to the desired length, maybe widen it to allow for seating room in the hip, use a French curve to correct the front, and do not cut the front on the fold.  There are also many patterns available for this type of top.

Happy Sewing!