Wednesday, March 28, 2012

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....

Wednesday, March 14, 2012

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.

Tuesday, March 6, 2012

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. 


Saturday, March 3, 2012

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.