Alabama Chanin Fitted Tank Dress

One of the first items from the book the book Alabama Chanin Studio Sewing and Design that I fell in love with is this paisley dress. I have been hesitant to make it because of all of the hand sewing involved. Rather than make the fully detailed dress I decided to make an un-embellished muslin.


The pattern came from the third book. For this dress, I cut the size medium and sewed a 5/8th seam allowance into the dress when I constructed it. So the sizing is midway between the small and medium sizes. I found that to be the perfect sizing for me; not too tight, not too loose.

I used tan colored jersey fabric and "natural" color button and craft thread. I sewed it completely by hand using running stitches. I felled the seams to the inside and kept the knots unseen. I bound the neckline and arms using the cross stitch.

stitch details

Cross stitch detail

I love the shape of the dress and the hem that is long in back and slightly shorter in front. I do not like that the neck line is so low. I cut it higher, but had to readjust it after binding it. The higher neckline flopped over. I redid it by re-cutting to the original depth. 

Full length Fitted Tank dress

Long hem/ train in back

I recommend this dress for a thinner person. This dress is not very forgiving on the figure. I added a poncho I made last year. It works well to hide issues a cheeseburger could produce.

Worn with poncho

Pin-tuck poncho back

I will make this dress again. I think I will make it in a dark color in the paisley design. I do not know when I will start it, but my anniversary is coming up. That may be an incentive to get stitching.

I am very pleased that I was able to tick this off of my list.

Happy Sewing

Fast sprint to the end of the Sewing Pattern Review Contest.

As the Pattern Review Pattern Busting contest winds down, I realize I have neglected to review a couple of patterns I completed. Here as I sprint to the end, are those reviews.

First up is the Brocade Circle Dress McCalls 5033: Perfect for twirling!

Twirling

Front

Dress back

Pattern Description: Children's' dress in 2 lengths

Pattern Sizing: Children 3 to 12 (I made the 4)

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

Were the instructions easy to follow? Yes and no. I was easy for me as I have inserted a lining like this before. I was sewing this with students and they found the instructions on the lining difficult. The pattern called for constructing the bodice by turning under 5/8 at the armhole and topstitching it. With my help, they were able to do it, but all said that without my help they would have been lost.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I liked that this pattern had a full skirt that my daughter liked. I disliked that the length of the bodice seemed short. I would have preferred if it came down to the bellybutton. I found the length of the skirt was too long on the long, but too short on the shorter length. If I make this again, both will need to be lengthened. 

Fabric Used: Silk brocade that my sister bought in Indonesia. 

Pattern Alterations or any design changes you made: I omitted the skirt lining and ruffle. I had intended to sew them, but as I went along changed my mind. I found the density of the brocade with the other elements would have been too much fabric.


Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I am on the fence about making it again. Little Miss loves it, but I have many more patterns  I may try before redoing this.  I guess I would not recommend either as I will not use it again in my lessons.

Conclusion: OK pattern, but not top of my list. 


 Next up for review is this a out of print asymmetrical top  from Vogue.

This pattern came from my mother's pattern stash. It was uncut so I felt good about busting her stash as well as mine. My intention when I started out was to make the top and skirt. I made both, but am unhappy with the skirt. I will continue to work on it until it is at a point I can wear it.

I love the asymmetrical top with contrast binding. It was easy to make and came together quickly. I used a knit fabric I purchased at a resale store. The top calls for 1 1/2 yards of fold-over braid to serve as binding. I had never seen any in the local fabric stores, but I was pleasantly surprised to find that I had just that amount in my notions stash! It is applied like bias tape and went on without a hitch. I don't like that I am dependent on luck to find more fold-over braid for future tops.

I will make another top with this pattern. For the next one, I will add a strap on the bare side wide enough to hide my bra strap. With two little ones tugging on me, it is important be secure :).

Here are the photos of the top.

Next up is  Simplicity 2512 Cynthia Rowley Collection Tulip Skirt 

Here is the review followed by the photos.

Pattern Description: Misses' Skirts. Cynthia Rowley Collection Tulip Skirt

Pattern Sizing:4-12, 14-22 I made the 12 because I find this line runs small.

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? Yes, the instructions are pretty clear and easy to follow.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I like the tulip detail of the skirt.
Fabric Used: Cotton Poly blend

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: I installed an exposed zipper in the back. 

 Conclusion: Fun skirt to make. I will make it again in the size 10.

Tulip Skirt detail

 

 

That is all for now.
Happy Sewing

Super G and Awesome E

Next week at Little Miss's school is "Crazy week". She gets to wear "crazy socks", "crazy hats", "crazy hair" and come to school dressed like her favorite super hero. The first three options are easy enough, but a superhero? Not sure who that would be? She knows only "Larry Boy" from Veggie Tales". I am sure after explaining what a superhero is, she would conclude the Jesus is her favorite. I couldn't see us sending her to school dressed like Him though.

So, I decided to make her a cape and emblem creating an alter ego superhero to herself! I used a store bought tee shirt as the base and added a gathered top rectangle of fabric to the back neckline. I also added a circle initial logo to the front of the shirt. We have two super kids, so I couldn't make just one caped shirt! The Little Man got one too! They loved them! Here they are exhibiting their super powers.

"Super E" on the go

Blast Off!

Super Speed

Let's Go!

Harnessing all his power!

          

Back of Little Man's Cape

We plan to make a mask and wrist cuffs together for craft time to complete the ensemble. I will share pictures when complete!

Happy Sewing!

Little Hooded Cape

On a jaunt to High Fashion fabrics in Houston, I found Simplicity 8356 from Shirley Botsford Designs, in the discontinued $1 bin! It got My Little Miss all excited about the possibilities for dress up and me thinking about a winter cape. It is not a typical coat, but with  the volume of the cape, I believe it will keep her warm.

e

  

My sister and her darling daughters were visiting so I thought I would make capes for them too. I delved into my stash to find fabrics. I gave them options and they made the design choices for inside of the cape.

My Little Miss loves to twirl, dress up, Dora and the color pink! She loves her new winter cape!

I have also made two more capes for a parent at Little Misses' Mom day Out. She choose some great fabric combinations. I have added a covered button over the hook and eye closure for added interest. Here are those pictures:

Here is my review of Simplicity 8356

Pattern Description:
Child’s Costumes: A-Dress, Overlay, B C D- Vest, B D-Blouse, B- Shirt and Apron, C- Blouse D- Skirt and Cape

Pattern Sizing:                        
3, 4,5,6,7,8

I made 2 size 4 and one size 8.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?
Yes, the shape, but I modified the rest.

Were the instructions easy to follow?
Yes.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?
I liked everything about it. In Texas, it does not get too cold for too long. I love that I can toss this on my Little Miss and go. No fussing with zips, snaps and such when getting in and out of the car and her car seat.

Fabric Used:
A wrinkle free, water-resistant, home dec. fabric from my stash for exterior. A Dora printed cotton for the hood interior.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:

I lined the hood with a print. I omitted the ties and opted for a button and hair tie for the closure.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?
I actually made three at the time; one for my Little Miss and two for my nieces.  I would recommend it. Little Miss gets complements every time she wears it. It is not for shy girls! I have requests to make it for others.

Conclusion:
Great for our mild winters and after, great for pretend play.

Super Swaps on Flickr

I signed up to participate in a small bag or pouch swap in a Flickr group. I was assigned a partner for whom I am to make a bag or pouch. In exchange, another person in the group would make one for me. This is my first swap, so I was nervous about what to make. So, without an idea of what to make, I focused on choosing the fabric.

I pulled these fabrics from my stash based on the color pallet from swap partner. I thought I would make a bag with the wood or plastic handles, but decided against it. In the end, I choose to make a bag using the two bottom prints from the Amy Butler Love collection. I found this pattern (Simplicity 0579) in my stash and decided to modify view D.

Rather than construct it with patchwork in the center, I opted to use one fabric for the entire exterior and another for the lining. To add a bit of contrast and texture, I added a raw edge gathered flower pin with a covered button center.

Simplicity 0579 view D

Detail of the gatherer flower pin.

I think I will add a few surprise goodies for my partner to enjoy with her new pouch. I hope she likes it!

Here is my Review of the pattern:

Pattern Description:
Multiple Patchwork Purse, make-up bag, key chain

Pattern Sizing:
One size I made view D

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?
Yes, the shape, but I modified the rest. I did not do patchwork. Instead I used a complete cut of fabric and added a gathered flower pin with a covered button.
Were the instructions easy to follow?
Yes

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?
I disliked that the lining had to be slip-stitched to the body. It was an unnecessary pain, I think there should be a prettier way to do this; maybe an opening in the bottom lining. It is not a deal breaker though.
Fabric Used:
Cotton fabric from the Amy Butler Love line.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:
I did not do patchwork. Instead I used a complete cut of fabric and added a gathered flower pin with a covered button.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?
I will. I would.

Conclusion:
Cute Pouch, Easy to sew, I would make again.

Happy Sewing!

New Year, New You Embroidery Entry

I have finished my entry for the New Embroidery with Vintage Patterns Flickr group contest! My entry is for the category:  "New Year, New You" We are to choose any vintage embroidery pattern that we feel captures the meaning and spirit of one of our new year's resolutions or something we hope to accomplish this year.

My resolution is to dive into sewing and use my time sewing to produce quality and not just quantity pieces. With that in mind, I choose a pattern that fit that theme to a tee. The pattern is from the Keepsake Transfers Collection from 1980.

I began stitching a little over a week ago in between other projects. I think it came together very well and very fast. I even had to rip a few stitches out when they didn't work like I hoped. As  I shared in this original post, I had another clock option in mind to frame the finished piece. I tried it, but the french knots in her afro were too full to allow the clock to spin. Luckily, I had a clock kit in my stash and instead did this using a dollar store frame and the kit.

I may change the numbers to buttons, but for now, it is finished! What do you think?

New Year, New You Embroidered Clock

Details of the many stitch  types used. Seed, back, stem, split, satin stitches and the french knots.

Detail of the girl in the notions basket Of course she has a delightful curly afro. Represent SISTA! Yup, she knows what time it is! (hahaha)

I am very pleased with her. She will have a very prominent place in my sewing room. If I find the time to organize it... 

Happy Sewing

Jamie Shift Dress in Alabama Chanin Style

I have completed my entry dress for the BurdaStyle Sewing Vintage Modern Contest. It took only one and a half weeks of nap-time and bedtime sewing. Given what was involved from start to finish, I am surprised that I completed it so quickly!

• First, the pattern was traced and cut (my least favorite part).  From the original pattern, I omitted the facings and instead used a double layer of jersey fabric; blue for the top and cream underneath. I also omitted the back zipper and instead used a six inch slit and hook and eye closure.
• The top fabric was painted with the Angie's Fall stencil with fabric paint and allowed to dry overnight.
• Next, I began hand stitching around the shape using running and reverse back stitches leaving the thread tails and knots visible on the right side of the fabric.
• I then, hand beaded sequins and seed beads inside the shapes. This process is completely new to me and I think I did a fair job of it. I learned some "what not to dos", but all in all I am happy with it.

• The dress was then hand sewn together, then the side and shoulder seams felled to the wrong side and sewn.
• Finally, I bound the neck and arm holes securing them with a herringbone stitch.

 It is fun and flirty and I think it is too cute!

The contest deadline has been extended to February 15th, so there is still time for you to get your entry in!

Happy Sewing

Vogue 1314

Vogue 1314

Pattern Description:
Pullover, close-fitting, lined dress has draped sides and narrow hem.
Pattern Sizing:
(6-14) (14-22) This was a straight size 12 with no alterations!

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

Were the instructions easy to follow?
Instructions were excellent to follow.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?

I liked the detailed instructions. I liked that there was a separate lining pattern with bust darts.
I disliked that the gathers were not as pronounced as I had hoped across the front. My fabric is super soft and stretchy, so that may be why.
 
Fabric Used:
It is a stretchy knit the contents of which I don't know, but it is butter soft and feels great on my skin. It was a clearance fabric from Joann's fabric. I liked it so much I bought some in blue for another dress.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:
None

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?
Yes, and yes. I plan on using a sturdier knit to try to get the gathered affect better. I live in Texas, so I think I will also make it in a sleeveless or  a ¾ sleeve version. This would work great as a maternity dress (not that I have any plans to need one!).

Conclusion:
I like the designer and I like this dress. I have been stretching my sewing skills by trying patterns that appear intimidating. This is an "easy" pattern, so in terms of difficulty, this does not fit the bill. It does stretch me in that it is not my usual style because it is so clingy. I am glad I made it!

Review of Vogue 1312

I fell in love with Vogue 1312 and had to make it! I loved the full seamed skirt, and an opportunity to tackle my sewing nemesis, the invisible zipper and lining. Turned out this was a great project for giving the appearance of difficulty, but was surprisingly easy to make given the impact of the finished dress.

Vogue 1312

Here is my review submitted to PatternReview.com:

Pattern Description:
From the pattern envelope: Pullover dress has close-fitting, self-lined bodice, raised waist, seamed skirt, stitched hem and invisible side zipper.

Pattern Sizing:
Muti-sized pattern: B5 (8-10-12-14-16) and F5 (16-18-20-22-24) I cut my dress in a size 14.

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?
The Vogue instructions were easy to follow.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?
I like the unique skirt of this dress. It is easy to put together, but there are no bust darts in the bodice which I missed. (I feel like I could have made the 12 everywhere but the highest point of my bust. I feel that darts may have helped. I am a nursing mom, so that is probably more a function of my body and not the pattern.)

Fabric Used:
I used a cotton/ poly blend for the dress. It was a denim colored broadcloth that I bought on sale at Joann's fabric.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:
None

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?
Yes and Yes!. Even though it is a unique dress, I wouldn't mind making one in a knit without the zipper in a smaller size. I am 5'8, so I think I would add about 5 inches to make it a maxi dress. I am also thinking of converting it to a skirt.

Conclusion:
Great dress to sew and wear. The zipper installation was super easy as were the instructions for the lining.