Vogue 1247 - Camel Skirt - Item 5 Completed

I have finally finished my Camel skirt for the Wardrobe Basics SewAlong.  I used this pattern:

Pattern Description:  Semi-fitted A-lined skirt has front in-seam pockets. (From back of Vogue Pattern)

Pattern Sizing: 6-18.  I made a 14.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?
Yes, I think so. Mine is a little longer

Were the instructions easy to follow?  Yes, overall I found the instructions very good. I was a little confused about understiching the pockets as after doing this, I still have a small raw seam there so not sure exactly if this was supposed to happen. If anyone else has made this and has tips on this, it would be greatly appreciated :)

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I love the fit of this skirt and I really like the waistband. The instructions have you finish the seams using binding and although I love how this looks inside, it was quite time consuming. I also love, love the pockets.

Fabric Used:  A lovely wool blend.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:  I lengthened the skirt by 1"  and it is still fairly short but I like the length. I used a blind hem stitch on my sewing machine to hem the fabric.

Would you sew it again?  Would you recommend it to others?  Yes, definately. I think I'll make the next one in denim.

Conclusion: A lovely, stylish pattern. I think this will be another great addition to my wardrobe.

Next up, I think I'll make the puffy vest or the black (or in my case, grey) dress. Oh decisions, decisions....

Abby Cardi - Item 6 Completed

I just completed the Tie Waist Sweater as part of the Wardrobe Basics SewAlong yesterday. Here is my review:

Pattern Description:  Great jersey cardi to have for all occasions, wear it over your cami or dress, knot it at the front or leave it casually hanging down casually. Optional 2 sleeve lengths. (From StyleArc Website) I made the short sleeve version.

Pattern Sizing: Sizes 6-30 (individual sizes purchased seperately). I made a size 10.

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

Were the instructions easy to follow? This is a quick cardi to put together. However, I did struggle with how to attach the back neck to the outer back collar but I got there eventually with a lovely friend's help . Once again, the Style Arc instructions are like an order of construction and are fairly brief.  After constructing the  collar, this is an easy pattern. I rolled hem the bottom hem and coverstitched the sleeve hems.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I like how this pattern can be used as a lightweight cardi which is great for the climate I live in. It would make a nice long sleeve cardi too. The length I think is perfect for me but if you were taller, I think you might like to add some length.

Fabric Used: Rayon Lurex Jersey Knit from Fabric.com

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:  I handstitched the facing neck seam instead of using the machine. I didn't trust it to look good with machine stitching.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I might sew it again. Time will tell!

Conclusion: The cardigan drapes well and is comfortable to wear. I'm also pleased with the sizing.

Abby Cardi - Tie Waist Sweater Item 6 - Planning

The next item I'm making for the Wardrobe Basics Sew Along is the Tie Waist Sweater. When I ordered my Kate Top pattern from Style Arc, the bonus pattern was the Abby Cardi:

I think I will make the 3/4 sleeve version as I live in a fairly warm climate and think I will get more wear out of this style (but I might still change my mind).  I'm going to use this fabric purchased from Fabric.com:

I have purposely chosen this pattern as it calls for a rolled hem on the hem of the cardi and I really want to get better at this skill on my overlocker/coverstich machine. I've also had good success with the fit of Style Arc patterns so far, so fingers crossed this one works as well too. 

White Shirt - Item 3 Completed

I have finished my basic white top for the Wardrobe Basics Sew Along. I made the Kate Top from Style Arc.   I think this a definately another versatile addition to my wardbrobe. I used Stella Knit and the quality of the knit is very good . It is a good weight for a t-shirt without being too heavy.

Pattern Description:  Long sleeve with rib cuff, round neck top, slightly fitted.

Pattern Sizing: Sizes 6 -20 (individual size purchased seperately). I made a 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? The instructions are brief but this is a fairly easy top to put together. They contain a useful diagram on how to do the neck binding.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?  I really like the cuff detail and also the way the top looks very RTW. I didn't have to do a FBA which is also a great win.

Fabric Used: Stella Knit purchased from Crafty Mamas

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: I stabilised the the shoulder seams with a strip on iron on stretch interfacing. I cut off 1 5/8" off the hem and also 2" off the sleeve before attaching the cuff band.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I think I will definately sew it again - maybe a stripe fabric next time.


Conclusion: A great white top - super comfortable and will be great for winter.