Creative Sewing Challenge-a Refashion (The Margo Blouse)

Creative Sewing Challenge-a Refashion (The Margo Blouse)

Uncomfortable in front of the camera? Play with your hem.
Uncomfortable in front of the camera? Play with your hem.

When Melissa from Mahlica Designs contacted me about participating in Blue Dot Patterns creative sewing challenge, I immediately knew I wanted to do the Margo Blouse, but I had no idea what I would do with it. And then I won a free giant tshirt from my favorite local business.

A very large, very wrinkly shirt.
A very large, very wrinkly shirt.

I love the Drink Tavern. It’s like my Cheers. The owners, Doug and Mary, are two of the best people you’ll ever meet. The regular patrons there are like family to me. When I first moved here, these were the people who befriended me. It’s like home. Seriously. It rocks.

I made Doug pose with me at Friendsgiving.
I made Doug pose with me at Friendsgiving.

I knew I wanted to use my Drink Tavern shirt, but the Margo pattern is for wovens, not knits. Also the pattern is already a bit more “flowy” than I’d normally wear (what can I say, I like tight clothes), so I sized all the way down to an extra small (according the pattern chart, I should have cut a medium). I also skipped the facings, due to lack of fabric. Given the opportunity, I would have used the facings. For the neckline, I turned and stitched the hem. For the sleeves, I just used the existing sleeve hems. I did a wavy hem on the bottom, because I liked it and it’s easy! I took about an inch out of the shoulders, which is pretty common for me and my stumpy shoulders. You may not have to. I also only used two buttons instead of three, since mine were huge. Looking at it, I could have crammed three.

Doug gets a little sassy.
Doug gets a little sassy.

I just serged the whole thing together, from cutting the fabric to sewing the buttons, the whole project took maybe two hours. Diane’s pattern instructions were very easy to follow, I had no problems assembling the pdf or following the pattern.

I blame the cold for this disgruntled face.
I blame the cold for this disgruntled face.

I really can’t think of anything else, this is such a simple and easy pattern! If you have any questions, feel free to ask. Now comes the part where I share some extra photos, as I’m out of commentary. Be sure to check out my fellow sewalong participants listed below, and happy sewing! 🙂

Mahlica Designs-check out those cutouts!
That’s Sew Amy-my sewing buddy and blog photographer
Life by Ky-now that’s a tripod
Shanni Loves-that pintuck, though
Bobbins on my mind-looking forward to this one!
Cindy Parrett-not our first sewalong together
Musings of a Seamstress-Sara is so adorable
That Black Chick-I don’t even have words, Michelle NAILED it. Wow. Stunning.

Boring side view.
Boring side view.
Better view of the back.
Better view of the back.
Fabulous Fall (McCall’s 6754)

Fabulous Fall (McCall’s 6754)

I really can't make any more posing excusing.
I really can’t make any more posing excusing.

McCall’s 6754 is my go to pattern. I think I’ve made it at least 7 times. This is a knit pattern, but I’ve made it in everything from quilting cotton to some weird poly-crepe type fabric. I’ve made it sleeveless and raglan. I’ve added pockets, zippers. I added horsehair braid once. It’s such an easy pattern, and who doesn’t love a good circle skirt!?!

So many dresses.
So many dresses.

I purchased this fabric last year (yay for destashing!), and have been struggling on what to do with it. I love that it’s reversible, but couldn’t think of a way to showcase that. Finally, I decided fuck it. The fabric is soft and cozy and perfect for a fall dress. Wearing this dress feels like being wrapped in the softest blanket, it takes “secret pajamas” to another level.

I like that dress, but it would look better on my floor.
I like that dress, but it would look better on my floor.

The very best part of this dress is that it was sewn up after work on Tuesday. Fabric cutting included, it took about 3 hours. It’s crazy fast and easy. I do, however, wonder about darts on the raglan sleeves. It’s a knit, why have a dart on the sleeve? Any ideas? Other than the darts and finishing, I did all the sewing on my serger. Originally, I had intended to do bands at the sleeves and hem, in the stripes also, but I ran out of energy. The pattern doesn’t call for bands, just fold and stitch, but I really like the look and stability of it. I would suggest sizing down. This fabric tends to “grow” as you wear it, so I think could have even gone down one more size! It is very easy to edit along the way, so if you cut it a bit too large, no worries. I’ve sewn this so many times, I disregarded the instructions. I believe it calls for elastic at the waist in all versions, though. I don’t add it. I don’t think it needs it and I just don’t like the look. But if you do, go for it! It’s an easy add.

Aaaaaaaaaaaand I'm dizzy.
Aaaaaaaaaaaand I’m dizzy.

This is my last make for the Sew Long Summer Sew Along!! I hope you’ve all enjoyed it. Happy sewing 🙂

Holidaze (Colette Crepe/Colette 1013)

Holidaze (Colette Crepe/Colette 1013)

Stop doing that with your chin, self.

So here’s the thing…I really need to cut my bangs. I thought I would grow them out, but I won’t. Please look past the bangs. Also, I was very fidgety for these photos, so excuse the blur, okay? I’m tryin’ here, photos are not my favorite.

I know I know, kinda blurry

This is the Colette Crepe, and my Holidaze post for the Sew Long Summer Sew Along. I know the fabric is floral, but to me it looks like fireworks. Labor Day holiday + firework print=Holidaze, yes? This fabric was purchased at Joann’s 283238473 years ago, from the clearance section. It’s cotton, but lighter and more sheer than cotton lawn. Mystery fabric.

I can't deal with my own face right now.
I can’t deal with my own face right now.

While the pattern calls for facings, I opted to fully line it instead. I fucking hate facings. Facings are the worst. Plus, this fabric is practically translucent, so a full lining was really the only option. While this definitely makes for a better dress, it does take a lot of fabric. I’m guessing between 7-8 yards, maybe. I ran out. The filler pieces on the lining are black quilting cotton.

I’ve got a very Amelia Pond-esque crack in my wall.

To line it, I just cut double the amount of each piece, except the tie straps, obviously. The shoulders and sides of the bodice and lining were sewn together. I stitched lining and bodice together at the back and neckline, with the straps sandwiched between the two. For the arms, i just serged and folded the seams under. I sandwiched (word of the day?) the bodice inbetween the skirt and skirt lining, to get a nice clean finish at the waist. Make sense? Probably not, that’s a terrible explanation. I hope you get the idea! Other than the lining, I followed the instructions.

For me, basically a turtleneck.
For me, basically a turtleneck.

I cut a size 8 of version two, because I love a fancy neckline. I have to say, the neckline is a little high for me, I am not exactly known for dressing conservatively. I liked the fit, and of course a wrap dress gives you some wiggle room. I will probably end up cutting some length off, it’s just not flattering on someone of my height and proportions. I think slightly above the knee would be more flattering. This was so easy to sew!! If you know anyone who’s interested in learning to sew, this would be a fantastic starter pattern. I’m even going to attempt to make another version, in a Doctor Who print, in one evening. Wish me luck! Happy sewing 🙂

Never Ending Summer (McCall’s 6696)

Never Ending Summer (McCall’s 6696)

This post features extra bad posing
This post features extra bad posing

We’re in week two! I’ve changed my mind a few times on some of my projects for this sewalong, but this week was always going to be the McCall’s shirtdress. I’ve read about it on so many blogs, so many people are in love with it…and I just feel “enh” about it.

I’m trying to copy that shrugging guy people are always typing.

I had always intended to make this dress in this fabric. I love this print, but the colors just aren’t really me. But hey, shirt dress, seems appropriate, yes? That bit turned out well, at least. I should have given more thought to doing stripe matching with pleats on the bottom and darts on the top. Whoops. On the cutting table, I realized that I’d have to do view C, the more fitted skirt. Not my favorite look, but the darts (and print) lined up perfectly. Worth it. When it comes to the back…stripe matching with pleats and gathers, not so much. And that yoke…I don’t know what happened there. But…rtw clothes have terrible print matching, right? It’s totally not even that noticeable?? Right? RIGHT!?!?

I know I know, stop slouching.
I know I know, stop slouching.

While we’re talking about gathers…I feel like this dress needs more. In hindsight, I do remember another sewing blogger saying that she added more to her version. Look, I know what you’re thinking here. “But Ashley, didn’t you make a muslin??” No, no I did not. This fabric was purchased about two years ago (yay for de-stashing), for about $4 a yard. With fashion fabric that cheap, this basically is the wearable muslin.

Way too poofy.
Way too poofy.

Another fun thing was when I managed to lose my buttonhole foot before making a shirt dress. Real smooth. Luckily enough, I had just purchased some crazy cheap pearl snaps. Being honest…the first few snaps didn’t come out so great. After a few and some wine, I’m pretty proud of my work. The neighbors probably didn’t enjoy the 9pm hammering, though.

Ohhhhhh shiny snaps!
Ohhhhhh shiny snaps!

For the collar, I followed Grainline’s collar sewing method. Easy peasy. With the yoke, I used the burrito method, my favorite yoke sewing method. I’m tellin ya, you’ve never seen a more beautifully finished yoke. Burrito method, almost impossible to fuck up but looks so professional. The rest of the sewing is fairly straightforward. I cut a 10, but really should have done a 12. It’s a bit too snug for my liking, but I’d also like to lose this 10 pounds I found somewhere, so…yeah. I used self made bias tape on the arms, and also did a small dart on each, to get them to lay a bit flatter.

Self made bias 4eva

I also somehow lost the pocket pattern pieces, so mine are self drafted. I totally intended to get pictures of said pockets and details, up close. I forgot, again. I am the worst at details and I apologize. I promise to improve, eventually. All and all, I like this pattern. I will for sure be making an improved version of this soon. Happy sewing! 🙂

Summer Crush (Sewaholic Lonsdale/Sewaholic 1102)

Summer Crush (Sewaholic Lonsdale/Sewaholic 1102)

A sewcialist in her natural habitat.
A sewcialist in her natural habitat.

I hope you’re all enjoying the Sew Long Summer sewalong!! I know I’ve been having a blast with it. All summer long, I’ve been crushing on and dreaming about this Cotton & Steel fabric. Originally, I had intended to sew up a Burda sunsuit with it, but I’m just not convinced I’ll ever wear it. Enter the Sewaholic Lonsdale dress, which just kinda screamed summer to me.

Do I need seersucker? Probably.
Do I need seersucker? Probably.

If you’ve never sewn an indie pattern, I highly suggest you do. The instructions are so much clearer, and fitting issues are minimal. Tasia also has a VERY easy to follow step by step sewalong posted online, so if the instructions ever do trip you up, shes got your back! You can’t go wrong, I’m tellin’ ya.

Pockets!
Pockets!

For this dress, I cut a straight 12, and it’s a pretty good fit. I could stand to take the bodice in a bit, but I fear that would make it too tight. The fabric is a cotton lawn, so there’s absolutely no stretch here. I will warn you, the Lonsdale is a fabric hog. I used a full 4 yards on this one, and that’s with some creative pattern placement. Those cute tie straps connect to the bodice, and they are LONG. Also, the bodice is fully lined, so you need 4 of those suckers. It’s part of what makes the dress so lovely, just make sure you plan for it! A non-sewing related qualm, it’s either a strapless bra or no bra for this one. I hate a strapless bra with a passion usually reserved for telemarketers, so…I felt you deserved a warning.

To sing Tasia’s praises one more time, she understands not wanting to hand stitch. Hand stitching is the worst. It takes forever. My man-sized hands are not made for it. DOWN WITH HAND STITCHING. For the waistband, you have the option of hand sewing it to the skirt, or stitching it “in the ditch”. I, of course, opted to stitch in the ditch, and it looks just fine. It’s also worth noting, this entire dress was sewn with grey thread. The base of this fabric is kind of an odd green color, and I just didn’t have a color to match. Grey thread is a bit magical, it just somehow manages to blend in with everything. It’s a beautiful thing.

Holy mosquito bites.
Holy mosquito bites.

I’m really looking forward to seeing what you’re all making!! Happy sewing 🙂

Summer Crush Begins!

Summer Crush Begins!

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Hello! I hope you all had a fantastic weekend, I spent mine sewing up some garments for the Sew Long Summer Sewalong. Our Summer Crush week begins today, and I’ve already seen some posts on Instagram! I’m stoked to see what you all make. In case you forgot, our Summer Crush week is about those projects all have those patterns we’ve been crushing on but have just not taken a chance on yet. Time to make that move. Will it be true love? Or maybe hot days and cold drinks zapped your passion for a project? Well, lets get it back. This week we’re focusing on making that special item we wish we had made or knocking out those summer UFO’s (to quote our leader, Melissa).

I also wanted to point out that we’re having a linkup party, which you can find here. Be sure to join, there are fun prizes 🙂

Sew Long Summer Giveaway

Sew Long Summer Giveaway

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Hello all! I know I haven’t posted any new garments lately, I’ve got a backlog of things to be photographed and am busily sewing up new things for the Sew Long Summer sew along!! However, I wanted to take amount to tell you about the Sew Long Summer Giveaway!

We’ve gathered up a few things for you, like Fiskar’s scissor sharpeners, a My Pad needle keeper, a $20 Joann Fabric gift card, and other little surprises 😉 To enter please use the Rafflecopter link below, and don’t forget to check in with all the cohosts for new content!! Happy sewing 🙂

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Maxi Sewalong Wrap Up

Maxi Sewalong Wrap Up

My very first sewalong with That’s Sew Amy has come to a conclusion! We really want to say a big thank you to everyone who participated, this was so much fun. I hope you all enjoyed it, your garments are beautiful. Below is a little showcase of everyone who participated, I hope we didn’t forget anyone!

www.staciechadwick.com
www.staciechadwick.com
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www.staciechadwick.com
http://www.musingsofaseamstress.com/
www.musingsofaseamstress.com
www.musingsofaseamstress.com
www.musingsofaseamstress.com
www.musingsofaseamstress.com/
www.musingsofaseamstress.com/
seecarmensew.wordpress.com
seecarmensew.wordpress.com
riange.blogspot.com
riange.blogspot.com
Jo Anna Godfrey
Jo Anna Godfrey
www.shopjunglejackbaby.com
www.shopjunglejackbaby.com
www.shopjunglejackbaby.com
www.shopjunglejackbaby.com
www.encue.blogspot.com
www.encue.blogspot.com
www.encue.blogspot.com
www.encue.blogspot.com
cocosloft.blogspot.com
cocosloft.blogspot.com
cocosloft.blogspot.com
cocosloft.blogspot.com
cocosloft.blogspot.com
cocosloft.blogspot.com
masterprojects.tumblr.com
masterprojects.tumblr.com
masterprojects.tumblr.com
masterprojects.tumblr.com

And then of course, Amy and I! Isn’t her dress GORGEOUS???

Oh look, more weird hand stuff.
Oh look, more weird hand stuff.
So cute!
So cute!
Sew Long Summer Sewalong!

Sew Long Summer Sewalong!

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Since my maxi dress sew along wrapped up yesterday (thanks to everyone who participated, photos coming soon!!), I’m stoked to announce the Sew Long Summer Sewalong!

Each week we will have a new sew-a-long theme to help us wrap up summer and begin our slide into cooler weather.

Please be sure you’re following the co-hosts so you don’t miss a beat.

mahlicadesigns
musingsofaseamstress
elizabethmadethis
cindyparrett

Follow Sew Long Summer on Pinterest and Instagram

Join Sew Long Summer Facebook and Flickr groups.

Use #sewlongsummer15 across social media.

Each week watch for posts from us with our creations, encouragement, ideas, and link up parties for you to participate.

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Our weekly themes

Summer Crush is Monday August 24th – Sunday August 30th.

We all have those patterns we’ve been crushing on but have just not taken a chance on yet. Time to make that move. Will it be true love? Or maybe hot days and cold drinks zapped your passion for a project? Well, lets get it back. This week we’re focusing on making that special item we wish we had made or knocking out those summer UFO’s (Un Finished Objects).

Learn about the Summer Crush contest and Link Up party here.(coming soon)

Never Ending Summer is Monday August 31st – Sunday September 6th.

Love summer? Me too. This week’s focus is making items that keep you thinking sunny thoughts all year round.

Join the Link Up party here.(coming soon)

Holi-Daze is Monday September 7th – Sunday September 13th

Labor Day is September 7th, time to show off your holiday wear (summer or upcoming holidays) and those special things you make with some extra time the holiday weekends provide.

Join the Link Up party here. (coming soon)

Fabulous Fall is Monday September 14th – Tuesday September 22 (last day of summer)

Time to look ahead to fall with sewing up some transitional clothing.

Learn about the Fabulous Fall contest and Link Up party here. (coming soon)

Our Guidelines:

The sew-a-long is for adult and kid garment sewing. With the exception of the Summer Crush week where we’re allowing your summer UFOS, please only submit items you made for that week’s theme in the Link Up.

We’d really like it if you include our blog button in your posts or sidebar if you have one.

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Insert this HTML into your post:

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McCall’s 7119, Part Two

McCall’s 7119, Part Two

Hello all!!!  I’m putting the finishing touches on my birthday dress, it looks like I’ll make the deadline!  In the meantime, I wanted to share the second dress I made for maxi dress sew along.  It is basically the same version of  McCall’s 7119 that I made for myself, with some minor changes.

Oh hey Amanda!
Oh hey Amanda!

My friend Amanda lives in Maryland, so there was no opportunity for fitting before I made this. Since it’s a wrap dress, the fit is pretty forgiving, but I do wish I could fix the way it sticks out near her shoulder. For her version, I added about 6 inches to length, because she is an Amazon, that lucky girl! I also used a knit for this dress, instead of the woven that the pattern calls for. Having made this pattern before, I wasn’t too worried about any problems there, though it is probably causing the bodice issue.

Teeny waist!
Teeny waist!

To finish the hem, I just did a rolled hem with my serger. It’s a casual dress and I just like the girl touch it gives it. Plus…I fucking hate doing hems. I did try somewhat to match the stripes, but I didn’t agonize over it. Overall, I’m happy with it. Bring it with you next time you come in, Amanda, I’ll fix your bodice! Happy sewing 🙂