Thanks! I made them!: cotton fabric

Tuesday, November 5, 2013

Peplums Please!

Peplums have been trending this year and I have quite a few patterns in my stash. The Fall Collection of the McCalls Patten Company was recently released and they are showcasing them for fall. I was drawn to Pattern 6844, a lightweight cardigan with hem variations.

McCalls 6844

As with most patterns I sew, I take a critical eye to it to see if I can make it in Alabama Chanin style. This cardigan was no exception. I decided to sew it in a double layer of hunter green jersey cotton from my stash. I used a double layer of fabric for all pieces with the exception of the facing and the peplum. I have skinny arms and I wanted the sleeves to be fitted. I decided to sew the sleeves with a 1-inch seam allowance. I used my dress form to be certain to get the correct upper sleeve fit.

The Alabama Chanin company is moving to a machine sewn line called A. Chanin. Because are sewing some items on a machine, I could as well. I decided to sew the interior themes of this project on the sewing machine. I use a knit needle and a long stitch length and it came together pretty fast. I chose to sew all of the secondary stitches by hand using hunter green button and craft thread. I felled the seams to the interior of the coat and kept my knots hidden.

Tone on Tone stitches

The pattern instructions required interfacing on the facing pieces but I didn't think it was necessary. I used it here, but I think next time I will not. Also, the pattern claims that the front does not meet but I did not find this to be the case. I made the size small and the found there was enough fabric to lap over itself. I think I need to think about way to keep it closed. I will wear it for a bit and see what needs to happen; maybe a belt, maybe hooks and eyes.

B.I.R.A Wearing the Cardigan

I'm really excited with how they turned out it. I have gotten many complements and requests for custom orders. It is super comfy and great for twirling!

It don't mean a thing if it ain't got that swing!

Happy Sewing!

Wednesday, July 10, 2013

The Tie Neck Top Simplicity 0273

Every time I begin a blog post I struggle to find a suitable introduction. I feel the need to explain how and why I have come to construct the garment I have made. Am I going to an event? Is it a gift? Who is it for? Let me let you in on a secret, I don't have a reason most days! I love sewing! If I find a pattern or fabric I like, I use them! I am a stay-at-home mom of two; I don't go anywhere! Where I do go usually doesn't require a dress code beyond jeans and a top! When I sew, I do it for the love of sewing. No other reason!

That brings us here to the tie neck top from Simplicity. I purchased this in the early summer and recently made it. As I prepared to write this review, I couldn't find it on their website or on patternreview.com. Turns out it has been repackaged as Simplicity 1661. (Not sure which is chicken and which is egg). Below is my review and my project photos.

Pattern Description: Misses’ Top with Sleeve Variations

Pattern Sizing: 6-14. I cut the 10.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Yes.

Were the instructions easy to follow? They were very easy to follow.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?

I liked the details of the top. The peek-a-boo sleeves, the tie neck, pleats and the back slit. I like that there are many variations possible in this pattern.

Once I made the top, I decided that I do not like the back slit of the top. I think it goes up too high and causes the fabric to sit in an unflattering way.

Fabric Used: A tone on tone white cotton with a circle, flower motif.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: None.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?

I will make it again in a lighter weight fabric and I will omit the back slit. I may cut the 8 next time, but I am still on the fence about that. It is a bit billowy in back and I am not sure if that is because of the slit or the size.

Conclusion: Good pattern with unique variations.