Inspiration...Jackets

Spring is just around the corner and we'll be shedding the bulky winter coats for light weight jackets. Here's some jacket inspiration:

Isn't this a lovely little jacket? This is the Maila Couture Cloth Topper Jacket by Lafayette 148.  This little jacket has a funnel neckline with a single hook and eye closure, half sleeves, vented center back, an A-line silhouette, and made of polyester.  Price tag:  $568.00.  If you want a closer look, go to neimanmarcus.com and search for the name.

 

The Retro Raglan Jacket pattern by Indygo Junction will give you a similar.  If you remove the button placket and move the edges to the center front along with shortening the sleeves, it will be a very close interpretation. 

This is the Open Front Linen Cocoon Coat by Eskandar  This coat is made from a semi-sheer linen/nylon blend fabric, has a V neckline, open front, and 3/4 length sleeves.  Price tag:  $940.00.   This can be found at neimanmarcus.com. Just search for the name.  I'm not so sure that you need a pattern for making this.  Peggy Sagers did a webcast on creating a cape which isn't too different than this coat. It looks like the difference in her cape and cocoon coat is the side seam.  You can see this information at silhouettepatterns.com, click on past webcasts, and click on Great EZ Fall Accessories. This information can also be found in the Third Season of Fit 2 Stitch.

This is the Fisher Project Terry Half-Sleeve Cape by Eileen Fisher.  This is a raw edge cape made from terry. This little cape looks very much like the one that Peggy Sager's makes in the reference webcast above.  Price tag:  $338.00.  If you want a closer look, head over to neimanmarcus.com and search for the name.

There are many more jacket patterns over at eBay and Etsy.  Go check them out.

Happy Stitching!

145 days till Christmas 2012

Here's another Christmas project idea - Tablets and eReaders seems to be everywhere.  There is also a large variety of patterns to create covers for tablets and eReaders.  Let's start with this one:

This is the Tech Pocket and Portfolio pattern by Indygo Junction. Pattern includes: Tablet sleeve: 9 1/4" wide x 13 1/2" high; Tablet Portfolio: 8" wide x 9 3/4" high, closed and e-Reader portfolio: 5 14/" wide x 8" high, closed. Interested in a kit?  Just let me know and I will give you a quote.

This is the Reader Wrap pattern by Atkinson Designs. Finished size: 6" wide x 8 1'2" high x 1" deep.   If you're interested in a kit, let me know. 

Interested in adding a little bit of Sparkle to your embroidery?  Below are the 7 colors of the Cosmo Sparkles:

Currently, I'm selling the Cosmo Sparkles collection which is one skein of each at Etsy or you can purchase individual Sparkle skeins at eBay. The colors are white or silver, champagne or gold, blue, pink, rose, coral, and black. Sparkles is 67% polyester and 33% nylon.   I also carry the John James embroidery needles in sizes 7, 8, and 9.  Just ask for a custom listing at either eBay or Etsy if you would like the items combined.

Happy Sewing!

Quick Gift and Inspiration Galore...

Today's quick gift idea is:

This is the Koozie Kouture pattern by Indygo Junction.  This sewing pattern comes with various koozie patterns - water bottle, glass bottle, soda can, coffee cup, and wine glass.  Lots of opportunity to customize with embroidery, applique, or other decorative elements.

Now for some inspiration:

Isn't this a gorgeous pillow? It's the Poinsettia Decorative Pillow from Pottery Barn.  Unfortunately, this pillow is already sold out but that doesn't mean you couldn't recreate it.  Here are the details:  the pillow cover is 100% linen and 12" square with leaves sewn on to look like a poinsettia.  There is no mention of what the leaves are made from but when you zoom in, it looks like felt. 

This would be fairly easy to reproduce.  Alternatively for the linen could be osnaburg in natural or a homespun in green.  Your choice of felt for the leaves and the bells.  How easy is that?

Let's move on to Spring inspiration.  Does anyone sew a season ahead?

This is from the Resort Collection at Neiman Marcus.  It's the Printed Dress with Solid Sleeves by Jason Wu.  The print on this dress is very vintage.  The description says that it's a 30's print.  This dress is made from silk.  Here's the details - jewel neckline with short raglan sleeves, fitted to the waistline, pleated A-line skirt, side pockets, with back zip closure.  Please note that this dress has a lot of trim.  You really need to visit Neiman Marcus and look at this dress up close.  The neckline, belt, and pockets are all trimmed. Price tag:  $2,300.00.

Here's some suggestions for similar looks:

We'll start with Peony Dress pattern by Colette.  This is a beginner pattern which has the fitted silhouette but is missing the raglan sleeves and a-line skirt (this would be easy to change).

If the raglan sleeves are of particular interest, then try:

The Go Anywhere Dress pattern by Sewn patterns.This is another cute alternative. Slightly different from the inspiration photo but it does have the raglan sleeve with a fitted silhouette.

Happy Sewing!

A Little Retro for Girls

Are you working on wardrobes for school? Here's a cutie from Indygo Junction:

The Urban Prairie Dress pattern features fresh, modern applique, a sassy gathered ruffle, and a contrast waistband with a comfortable and easy-fit elastic neckline and waistband.  The comfortable fit combined with the stylish modern details make this dress perfect to span from toddlers to pre-tweens.  Dress has three-quarter or short sleeves options.  Petal tree and bird applique patterns are included Sizes:  12-18m, 18-24m, 3/4, 5/6, 8/10.

The Bubble Shorts, Hat & Shoeies pattern features an easy-fit elastic waistband with full bubbly short. Reversible cloche hat is a modern take on a 1920's felt ladies' cloche and reversible soft shoes are a perfect gift for the new baby. Combining all these vintage era pieces with the modern applique provides a fresh twist on the classic summer girl. Caged bird and elephant applique patterns are included. Short sizes: 0-6m, 6-12m, 12-24m, 3-4 years, 5-6 years, 8-10 years. Shoesies sizes: 0-3m, 3-6m, 6-12m, and 12-18m Cloche Hat sizes: 0-6m, 6-18m, 18m-3 years, 4-10 years.

Happy Stitching!

The New Indygo Junction patterns have arrived....

The new patterns that I ordered when I was at market have arrived.  There are craft items, bag patterns, and clothing patterns for adults and children.  Here are some highlights:

Let's start with the Chic Cowl Neck Shift pattern by Mary Ann Donze Design for Indygo Junction.  This can be made as a tunic or a dress, with sleeves or without.  Sizes: XS - 2XL.  Approximate finished bust measurements: XS - 38 1/2", S - 40", M -42", L -44", XL -46", 2XL - 48".

Next, is the Day to Night Dress pattern by Mary Ann Donze for Indygo Junction.  this dress has a vintage feel but very modern with the exposed zipper.  S - 2XL. Approximate finished bust measurements: S - 38 1/2", M - 40", L -42", XL -44", 2XL -46".

Finally, we have the Ideal Duffle pattern by Indygo Junction.  This pattern is so cute using the recycled denim jeans.  Size:  Approximately 8" high x 18 1/2"long x 7 1/2" deep, excluding the handles.

I'll show more items over the next few days.

Happy Stitching!

Another wonderful skirt pattern.....

Here's another wonderful skirt pattern for little girls. This one might have some twirl factor also.

It's the Little Charmers skirt pattern. Actually for toddler's there is a cute little jumper. Sizes for the jumper are toddler sizes 2, 3, and 4.  Sizes for the skirt are 3/4/5, and 6/7/8. 

Check out this blog post regarding the Little Charmers skirt by Design... with training wheels. Such a cute example!

Happy Stitching!

Thoughts for school....

Shhh..don't tell the kids but school is just around the corner. Have you given any thought to school wardrobes? Here's a cute little skirt for girls:

Here's the Girly Gore Skirt pattern by Indygo Junction.   Size 2 to 10.  How's this for a swirly girl?  The skirt can be done in denim with exposed seams (see skirt on left), solid colors, or go bohemian with multiple prints.

Happy Sewing!

Trends for Inspiration?

Do you watch the trends for inspiration? Neiman Marcus has Crossbody Bags as a Spring 2011 trend.

Here's Patty's Bag pattern by Sewphisti-Cat Designs:

Here's the Rachel Cross Body Bag pattern by Serendipity Studios:

These aren't the only crossbody bags available in the store. There is Shabby Bags by Taylor Made Designs, and Botonical Bags by Indygo Junction. Of course, the possibilities are endless when you take the bag pattern that you like and add length to the strap.

Hope you're inspired to sew!

Happy Sewing!

Scarves are still a great accessory...

Scarves as an accessory are still going strong. The following three prints from the Van Gogh collection by Free Spirit would make beautiful scarves. This fabric is 100% rayon and very drapey. Scarf length cuts of these three fabrics will be available in the next couple of days. The cuts will be 72" long x ~22" wide and the price will be $10.00. Finishing is all up to you. Wouldn't this make a great Christmas present? Let me know if you're interested in one of these cuts.

More unique scarf ideas:

Circle Scarves pattern by Indgyo Junction. This pattern has two scarves designs available. Finished length of the scarf in adjustable. Information on making scarves from cotton batiks, polar fleece, and/or felted wool. A unique style.

Scarfletts pattern by Fig Tree. This pattern contains directions for 6 different styles of scarves with 4 different finishes.

Happy Sewing!

Spring coats...

Spring is coming. It's time to start thinking about spring coats. Here's Indygo Junctions new trench pattern:

The Midtown Trench pattern by Indygo Junction. This coat features a five button closure, exaggerated portrait collar, front princess seaming, and a petite front yoke.

This is The Sophia Trench Coat pattern by Serendipity Studios. This pattern features a slight A-line with classic raglan sleeves, large stand-up collar and an optional belt or back pleating. Make it fun with a funky print or go classic.

There are many other coat patterns option available in the store. Come check them out.

Happy Stitching!

Pajamas, etc...

Today, I'll show off a couple pajama patterns. Personally, I love making pjs. We'll start with patterns for kids: This is the Jack and Jill Jammies pattern by Indygo Junction. Sizing: 4, 6, 8, 10, 12. This pattern is for boys and girls, and the girls can get ruffles.


How about the The Little Jammies pattern by Favorite Things. Sizes: Toddlers 1-4, Children 5-12. Pattern includes a top with long or short sleeves, a camisole, and low-rise pants w/back elastic and drawstring. Pants are in three lengths: boxer, cropped or full length.

The Boudoir Basics pattern by Indygo Junction. This pattern is for an easy to wear top and pants. Great for sleep, leisure, or casual wear. Sizes: S - 2XL.


The Modern House Coat pattern by Indygo Junction. Sizes: XS/S, M/L, XL/2XL.

Happy Sewing!

Shop Talk - New Patterns

New Indygo Junction patterns and new Boutique Chic by Serendipity Studios have been added. Use the The Pattern Loft @ eBay link at the right and click on "What's New".

Happy Sewing!

Inspiration - Little Girl's Dress - Shop talk

I'm still looking at the little girl dresses for summer. Here's another example of a quick easy little dress with just a little bit of embellishment:

Rosette Shirt Dress by 3.1 Phillip Lim. This little dress is sleeveless with a round neckline and rosette front detail made from cotton. Price Tag: $195.00.

Again, I think this little dress could be duplicated using the Uptown Tops & Trousers by Indygo Junction. You would need to borrow some details from heirloom sewing such as adding pleats before actually cutting out the front. As far as the front detail, how about using a wide ribbon for the background and mitering one end. For the rosettes, you will have to play a little bit with this to get the desired look. Here is some information on how to make this type of a rose using ribbon - Make a Ribbon Rose. Use fabric instead of ribbon and be sure to sure thread/floss that matches. You might also consider cutting the fabric on the bias so there isn't much in the way of raveling. There are also a link for instructions on the March 13, 2009 blog entry.













The new pattern line has arrived. Here are three of the patterns. Aren't they wrapped beautifully? This is the first time that I have received patterns from a designer wrapped in such a way.

There is so many new items to be added that I almost don't know where to start. Lots of new patterns (and re-orders, too), buttons, threads, etc. It will take me more than a week or two to get this uploaded. Check back often. I will post what has been added.

Happy Sewing!

Inspiration for Children and Of Course Shoptalk

For me, Quilt Market is over. However, I've discovered that I'm finding several designer items that relate to piecing. Here's an example:

Here is the Striped Dress by Chloe. It is described as white/multicolored stripes, jewel neckline, sleeveless, straight skirt, and made from cotton. You really need to click the link and zoom in. The stripes are pieced cotton in shades of white to a light taupe. There could be some other pastel colors in there. Price tag is from $450 to $536. Think of the design possibilities with using this technique. It wouldn't have to be done in pastels and white. It could be bold. I would think that is wouldn't have to be just for children either.

I do have a pattern in the store for younger children with similar lines. It's Uptown Tops & Trousers by Indygo Junction. This pattern has 2 tops and pants.This is a very versatile pattern. One of the tops could easily made as a sleeveless dress/jumper and this technique could be used. Add fun to the project by letting your child pick the colors.

Happy Sewing!

Inspiration - Dresses for girls

Isn't this a cute dress for a little girl? I love the fabric roses. A little about the dress - this is a 3.1 Phillip Lim dress in cotton lavender with tonal rosette appliques, sleeveless, ballerina neckline, and a straight skirt. Price tag: $250.00. The rosettes are also on the back of this dress.

This dress would be so easy to duplicate using Uptown Tops & Trousers pattern by Indygo Junction and the instructions for making rosettes from Hot Patterns on YouTube. Here is the link to "How to make fabric rosettes.".

This dress is also by 3.1 Phillip Lim. It has a lace bib front with a lace yoke on the back. There are little bias loops decorating the edges of the bib front and it looks like an opening has been added on the front. The yoke on the back has release pin tucks. Price tag: $150.00.

This sweet little dress could easy be duplicated using the Uptown Tops & Trousers pattern by Indygo Junction. This is a very versatile pattern for girls.

Happy Sewing!

Inspiration Returns - Spring Ruffles

Have you noticed the ruffles for spring? Here's a great bag to start with:

This lovely Rouches Ruffled Hobo by Valentino. It's made with leather and the color choices are brown and red. It has leather strap with silver-toned o rings. Price tag - only $1695.00.

Interested in duplicating the look? See below.




Indygo Junction's Serged Satchel pattern will give you a similar look and just think of how many bags you can make for the difference in price. Look for a bag with the same hobo styling. How about another Indygo Junction pattern?








Indygo Junction's Wave on Wave shoulder bag pattern has a similar bag shape. Use the bag shape and add your own ruffles. This would be great exercise in using the ruffler foot.


That's it for today.


Happy Sewing!

Inspiration and Shop Talk

Today, I was looking around on the Neiman Marcus website and came across great jacket. Described as leather jacket with stand up collar, hidden front closure, long sleeves and smocked detail on collar and chest. It's approximately $10,000. Here's the link so you can zoom in and check it out for yourself: Valentino Smocked Leather jacket. Isn't the detail great? I really like the look of smocking.

The Confident Jacket pattern by Indygo Junction could be a good jumping off point for a jacket similar to the Valentino jacket.

Happy Sewing!

Shop Talk - Go Green!

It seems the trend this year is to eliminate the use of paper and plastic shopping bags. There are many different sizes and shapes of shopping bags available. I guess the different sizes all depend on what you are purchasing. Come check out the different shopping bags at The Pattern Loft:

The Florence tote pattern by Indygo Junction. This tote comes in two sizes: 11” x 15” and 10” x 14”.

Eco Market Tote pattern by Favorite Things. This tote is 15” x 18” x 4.5”.

Tukaway Tote pattern by Mckenna Linn. This tote is 20” x 22” and can be folded into it’s own little pocket.

Betty Shopper pattern by Amy Butler. This bag pattern comes in two sizes: Large - 15" across top and 28" across bottom (width) x 14 1/2" tall x 3 1/2" deep. Small - 12 1/2" wide across the top and 25" across bottom(width) x 14 1/2" tall x 3 1/2" deep.

Bring Your Own Bag pattern by Quilts Illustrated. The bag is 16” x 16” x 5.5”.

Easy Market Bag pattern by Calico Printworks. This bag is 13” x 19” x 6”.

Also, coming soon to The Pattern Loft is the ReUse-a-Bag pattern from Studio Kat. This bag comes in three sizes: 12” x 10.5” x 4.75”, 15” x 14” x 5.5”, 18.5” x 17” x 6.5”. Each bag also folds up into a clutch.

Any of these bags would be fun to make. They would also make great gifts, easily personalized for each person.

Happy Sewing!

Shop talk - New Patterns

I uploaded three new Indygo Junction patterns and one L.A. Designs to the ebay store yesterday. All are very cute. Go check them out.

The first Indygo Junction pattern is the Gathering Jacket. The jacket has a couple of interesting details. First detail is the neckline which is gathered with elastic or you can use a tie and make a soft bow or add a petite ruffle. Second detail is the pocket which are shirred. This is a very popular detail for fall. See the pattern at this link: Gathering Jacket .

The other two Indygo Junctions patterns are handbags/purses. The L.A. Designs pattern is a Halloween oven mitts and pot holders. It is very cute for fall decorating. See them the patterns at these links: Parisian Purse , The Crestwood , and Halloween Oven Mitts & Potholders .