tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-65602467281150235302024-03-14T06:18:13.073-04:00liza jane sewsliza janehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16916364137307894200noreply@blogger.comBlogger258125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6560246728115023530.post-84102856143220566892021-01-03T20:28:00.002-05:002021-01-03T20:28:30.467-05:00Simplicity 9187<p style="text-align: center;"> I made a coat! And I am pretty pleased with it. See my smug face. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnGRhcfcgJZYD1tnSWb1miSYVwyPZXRMFneny2yrH2LgRKkO51kmkPuZsVSIoUEdtxEHcqUCnobb3OUFR2OLutx-04f08M2a3P2I3yqJ2JOeTjzrvUPD2gHwJ0b4oAJ0YO4nuGrisVFATD/s1080/Coat+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnGRhcfcgJZYD1tnSWb1miSYVwyPZXRMFneny2yrH2LgRKkO51kmkPuZsVSIoUEdtxEHcqUCnobb3OUFR2OLutx-04f08M2a3P2I3yqJ2JOeTjzrvUPD2gHwJ0b4oAJ0YO4nuGrisVFATD/w640-h640/Coat+1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">Pattern Description: <a href="https://www.simplicity.com/simplicity-storefront-catalog/patterns/brands/simplicity-sewing-pattern-s9187-misses-jacket--coats/" target="_blank">Simplicity 9187</a> is a relaxed fit jacket and coat with a shaped collar and pockets. The pockets are fun! There is the option to do a faux fur collar and cuffs with a separate pattern piece.</span></div><p style="text-align: center;">Pattern Sizing: XXS to XXL. My measurements put me in a size large but I sized down to a medium because I knew it would be very oversized. Actually, my bust measurement put me in a medium, but everything else is in the large size. The medium fit perfectly with a couple of shoulder alterations.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmDY5AEOf5F2KaruICTH00Ciko6J7i0G6Al2ew4cMVAnnbBfGjQct6mEoPFkrSB4ZpB6hDvZa8JlwJk4cJZtKcscUpQdF7y5MUXkGuxKzhTS8esisj8ghNYtpgRTyAk77D9WvC2m0ZHzSN/s1080/Coat+7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmDY5AEOf5F2KaruICTH00Ciko6J7i0G6Al2ew4cMVAnnbBfGjQct6mEoPFkrSB4ZpB6hDvZa8JlwJk4cJZtKcscUpQdF7y5MUXkGuxKzhTS8esisj8ghNYtpgRTyAk77D9WvC2m0ZHzSN/w640-h640/Coat+7.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p></p><p style="text-align: center;">Fabric Used: The fabric is really what inspired the coat. A few months ago, I ordered this alpaca knit wool fabric from fabric.com on a whim. It wasn't actually what I was shopping for and I don't really know why I ordered it. I was expecting it to be much lighter weight. When it came, I was surprised by the weight and warmth. I figured I better make a nice coat out of it. I searched around for a pattern that was simple so I didn't have to do too much plaid matching and settled on this one. Anyway, it's super warm and cozy. It's probably the warmest coat I own. It's definitely 100% wool because it smelled like a wet alpaca when I washed it! I spent forever cutting out each piece individually to try and match up my plaids perfectly. I think I did an ok job. The horizontal lines match up pretty well, but I did not pay attention to the vertical lines in some places. At least it's symmetrical. I lined it with a rayon challis because I couldn't find anything else to match. The rayon challis is a little heavier than a normal lining, but it contributes to the warmth, I think.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge1dbqWYV8_ySCMLKGgYP6QRJ-yXekVnc-qeNCdr9NpfZd4_BUup_khcMX9ifA2KLnUDIyUfdhcSg0jp5YNGNjmOzhlWd2Z7Prr_1lb8DXBG_4UO3OLatB-DulIz69iOtAazQDA9muip2W/s1080/Coat+6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge1dbqWYV8_ySCMLKGgYP6QRJ-yXekVnc-qeNCdr9NpfZd4_BUup_khcMX9ifA2KLnUDIyUfdhcSg0jp5YNGNjmOzhlWd2Z7Prr_1lb8DXBG_4UO3OLatB-DulIz69iOtAazQDA9muip2W/w640-h640/Coat+6.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Alterations/ Deviations: I went ahead and did my standard square shoulder/forward should adjustment before cutting anything out. I just added 5/8" to the back shoulder seam. Then I had to wrap my brain around where to add the 5/8" to make up for the change in the back neckline. I added it to the center back collar seam. I also added a little to the sleeve cap to make up for the extra added when cutting the fabric. I probably should have taken a picture of what I did, because it worked well and I'm very happy with where the shoulder seam sits on me. Otherwise I didn't do any other fit alterations because there is not much else to fit! I made the shorter jacket length, but I used the curved hem from the longer version because I liked it. I also bagged the lining instead of hemming the lining and coat separately. I almost think it was easier to do it that way.</div><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwa_X0TeA8RaWw23q7F7jB85Ckt8qdhVrc9XEtFUcZkNMwUanfZxIg6_iRjhysIsq84b4CO0qhFAExiRLawJGmaQ0fUf69iltvG1HqeMRyOFXfGBqjpMZpvDPNETqbmhom5CRcD-xbIPNz/s1080/Coat+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwa_X0TeA8RaWw23q7F7jB85Ckt8qdhVrc9XEtFUcZkNMwUanfZxIg6_iRjhysIsq84b4CO0qhFAExiRLawJGmaQ0fUf69iltvG1HqeMRyOFXfGBqjpMZpvDPNETqbmhom5CRcD-xbIPNz/w640-h640/Coat+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p></p><p style="text-align: center;">Likes/ Dislikes: I really love the end result. It is so warm and cozy. It is the ultimate blanket coat. I can see myself wearing this often, even though it's only cold enough here for a couple of months. I love the fabric and I love the relaxed fit. I can definitely fit a big sweater underneath. The pockets are really fun. They have an opening sewn with the seam allowances sewn in to the side seams. I thought they were a little fiddly while I was working on them but love the way they turned out. The only dislikes I have are the way the cuffs are sewn. My fabric makes that seam pretty bulky, especially with the lining sewn to it as well. The sleeves are also very wide and could maybe be slimmed down. But then again, they work with oversized fit of the coat.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDjkbOYRbEpNvVRzXbg8i84xEnywUJHXqUO_4xMGZ1l_e8FIJ9ACTW2yc0KkfHNpkvfgbvluow3qS3JhpnZyOzuYbD_9rGSCPcvQoSTas9Pdc8Z0DsKxd-F3G_Irbv6nWZERlWG1IlYVs3/s1080/Coat+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDjkbOYRbEpNvVRzXbg8i84xEnywUJHXqUO_4xMGZ1l_e8FIJ9ACTW2yc0KkfHNpkvfgbvluow3qS3JhpnZyOzuYbD_9rGSCPcvQoSTas9Pdc8Z0DsKxd-F3G_Irbv6nWZERlWG1IlYVs3/w640-h640/Coat+3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p></p><p style="text-align: center;">Conclusion: Nice pattern, love my new coat! </p>liza janehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16916364137307894200noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6560246728115023530.post-2854963257050430282020-05-02T21:26:00.000-04:002020-05-02T21:26:38.406-04:00Purple Robe and Anemones<div style="text-align: left;">
Well, hello there, old blog! It's been a while, hasn't it? I thought this latest project I worked on deserved a real bona fide blog post. So here it is. And boy, is it a long one. I wanted to keep all my info in one place, so just skim if you are not interested in the whole lengthy process.</div>
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I have been inspired by Matisse's artwork since I was a kid. I remember the painting <i>Robe Violette et Anemones</i> hanging in my elementary art classroom. For as long as I have been sewing, I have wanted to create my own version of Matisse's purple robe. The whole 'quarantine art' social media trend gave me the push to do it. In fact, a local arts festival, Artisphere, put out a contest to recreate a famous work of art at home like the 'between art and quarantine' hashtag that I think originated with the Getty Museum. Years ago, I came across an article talking about an exhibition of Matisse's paintings displayed along side of a collection of his textiles. Matisse was a textile lover (and aren't we all around here!). He grew up in a textile region of France and his studio was filled with fabric, clothing, weavings and wall hangings. Some of his textile items show up in multiple paintings, like the purple robe. There is an exhibition catalog titled, <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Matisse-His-Art-Textiles/dp/1903973465">Matisse: His Art And His Textiles </a>that is <i>amazing</i>. I ordered it when I began this project. The book is full of photos and beautiful examples of Matisse's textile collection. There is even a photo of the real purple robe. If you are a fan of Matisse's work, I highly recommend the book. </div>
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The biggest issue with making myself a purple striped robe was finding the right fabric. Over the years I have bought purple fabric a couple of times thinking I could paint the white stripes. I even thought maybe I could bleach them. I actually had a length of purple linen in my stash for a long time specifically earmarked for this. I pulled it out and tried painting the white stripes with fabric paint and it looked bad. Extremely homemade. I tried bleaching a little piece but it only bleached to pink. I figured I'd have to dye the stripes to get the look I was going for. I almost pulled out my batik supplies but I wasn't sure I'd have the time nor the means to get the wax out, so I looked in to painting with Procion dyes instead.</div>
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Believe it or not, I had everything I needed to do this except for the sodium alginate, which I ordered via amazon. Apparently it's used in cooking. This truly was done with things I had at home. I had the deep purple Procion dye and the things needed to mix with it (urea and soda ash). For the fabric, I had a leftover piece of white rayon challis that I had been using to line things. I laid it out and rough cut it to fit my pattern pieces. I used<a href="https://www.simplicity.com/simplicity-storefront-catalog/patterns/women/cozywear/burda-style-pattern-b6740-bath-robes/"> Burda 6740</a>, a pattern from my stash- which again, I think I bought a while back just to do this purple robe. I only had enough fabric for the fronts, sleeves and facings so I planned on using the printed rayon for the back and belt from the beginning. I like a bit of print mixing anyway.</div>
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When it came to mixing the dye to paint with, I used <a href="https://www.dharmatrading.com/techniques/fiber-reactive-dye-the-cold-batch-method.html">the recipe from the Dharma Trading Company </a>website to make the 'chemical water.' I mixed 3/4 cups of urea in to about 4 cups of water. I mixed it in a big glass jar. From what I understand, the urea keeps the dye from drying too fast once it's been painted on the fabric. Then I mixed in about 4 teaspoons of sodium alginate. The sodium alginate is a thickener which keeps your dye from spreading. I could have used more sodium alginate. I let that mixture sit overnight before mixing up the dye.</div>
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The next day, I separated half of chemical water and mixed up my purple dye. I used 3ish teaspoons of deep purple and 2 teaspoons of soda ash. Soda ash is necessary for the chemical reaction between the dye and fiber (hence 'fiber reactive dyes'). Once you mix in the soda ash, you have to use your dye right away. And so I painted my stripes. </div>
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I laid each piece of fabric out on a piece of a plastic drop cloth and painted long vertical purple stripes. I tried to leave enough space in between each purple stripe so the white would remain. In hindsight, I could have used a smaller brush to make smaller stripes, but that also would have taken me even longer. Doing these three pieces of fabric took about an hour and half. It was a little tedious. I did get some ripply edges because the dye would pool underneath the fabric on the plastic. It would have been better to have something absorbent underneath, but I don't mind the ripples. I wanted the stripes to look painterly like the Matisse painting.</div>
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After painting, I left the fabric to sit overnight underneath another piece of plastic (to keep it from drying all the way). I actually sandwiched all three pieces on top of one another with their respective pieces of plastic. Now, when I was painting the stripes, it was that beautiful deep purple that I was hoping for. The next day, however, it was much lighter.</div>
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I rinsed out all three pieces the next morning until the water ran clear (with gloves in my bathtub). Then I washed in the washing machine with some synthrapol. When I took the fabric out to dry, it had faded to a pretty violet-red and had a faint blue halo around all the edges of the stripes. I still thought it was pretty and planned to use it, but it didn't turn out exactly as I had envisioned.</div>
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I read around online to try and figure out what happened and came across <a href="http://www.pburch.net/dyeing/dyeblog/C128544578/E20110602124423/index.html">a great website</a> with tons of info about hand dyeing. <a href="http://www.pburch.net/dyeing/FAQ/pureMXcolors.shtml">One article</a> I found interesting was that some dyes are pure color while some are mixtures. In mixtures of color, sometimes the two colors react with the fiber at different rates, which is what I am assuming happened here. The website also specifically mentions fuschia reacting faster than blue, meaning the blue will travel longer and create that blue halo. So that's probably what happened. I do like the blue halo anyway.</div>
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After the fabric was dry, I cut out my pattern pieces and sewed. The pattern was pretty straight-forward, though there was a little bit of hand sewing the facing at the back neckline. I tried to avoid hand sewing whenever possible. I made a medium and left off the pockets, no other modifications.</div>
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I was super pleased with how it turned out. Not only did I plan to recreate the Matisse painting, <i>Robe Violette et Anemones</i>, but I also planned to use my robe for real (and I have been using it with all my time at home lately). I spent an embarrassing amount of time staging my living room to snap a photo. I hung pieces of fabric and party streamers on the wall behind my couch and made anemones with tissue paper and pipe cleaners. My daughter helped.</div>
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After I finished everything, I decided to use the leftover piece of printed rayon (the back of the robe) to make myself some pajamas. I mean, if I'm going to lounge around in my beautiful hand painted purple robe, I might as well have some swanky pj's to go along with it, right? I used every scrap of the printed rayon to make an <a href="https://shop.truebias.com/product/ogden-cami">Ogden cami</a> and elastic waist bottoms using Simplicity 1112, which is now OOP, unfortunately. </div>
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I'm late to the Ogden cami game, but I <i>love</i> it. This is the first one I've made but there will be many more. This is a size 12 graded out to a 14 under the bust. Next time I'll add an inch or two of length and I'd like to experiment with making a wider strap. The pants pattern I've used too many times to count (see <a href="http://lizajanesews.blogspot.com/2016/07/faux-jumpsuit.html">my faux jumpsuit</a> from a couple of years ago). I cut a 16 but added a smidge more to the hip area (weight gain, yay). I used every bit of fabric I had, so there is no pattern matching anywhere and the length hit just below my knee. I wanted more length, so I found a teeny, tiny scrap of a cotton and steel rayon (leftover from <a href="http://lizajanesews.blogspot.com/2016/06/rompin-around.html">a romper</a> I made for my daughter) and added to the hems. I love the end result. And all from the stash! Woo hoo. </div>
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If you made it to the end here, you are a <i>champion</i>. 😆 All in all, it was a fun and really rewarding project where I got to combine my love for art and sewing together. And bonus, I get to look pretty fancy while I sit around my house and sip my tea during this time (but not with my mask on). Stay safe and healthy, friends!</div>
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liza janehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16916364137307894200noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6560246728115023530.post-74799809494232597692018-08-10T00:22:00.001-04:002018-08-10T00:22:57.639-04:00Some Tops for Jane<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjIn0e6J7wooiOhcgmwC-OMp91lcGoKD2KRlz3PTVTNUPmK0GNsBcAV7HZgWzd9cfheMhEOuXh4H8A2t3HcUQQ7L92uTSnIKPu-yIcxs8GCEya6La7cEIDn5zD_fZbkP5xiXED4oQX7eRO/s1600/JaneTops3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="569" data-original-width="850" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjIn0e6J7wooiOhcgmwC-OMp91lcGoKD2KRlz3PTVTNUPmK0GNsBcAV7HZgWzd9cfheMhEOuXh4H8A2t3HcUQQ7L92uTSnIKPu-yIcxs8GCEya6La7cEIDn5zD_fZbkP5xiXED4oQX7eRO/s1600/JaneTops3.jpg" /></a></div>
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My girl is about to start kindergarten! I can't believe it. She is so ready. And fortunately for me, she's coming to my school. We are so excited to go to school together every day. I might even have her in my art class, as long as she doesn't get the traveling art teacher. Will she call me mom? Who knows. The other kids slip up and call me mom all the time anyway, which always makes me giggle. I decided to make her a few new tops for school. I like to save larger scraps of fabric from my projects thinking I can make something for Jane. It's about time I actually got around to it. The two floral pattern tees are actually recycled from two of my old tees. And the black and white fabric is a piece I saved specifically to make her something. Now that I've made these cute tops and have worked out the fit, I need to see what other knit scraps I've saved and make her some more. Kids clothes are much faster to sew than adult size things. And she's very appreciative at this age.</div>
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Pattern Description: I used <a href="https://mccallpattern.mccall.com/m6947">McCalls 6947</a>, which is unfortunately out of print now. I've had it in my pattern stash for a while. I actually used it last year to make her a dress (the patch pocket variation), so I knew what the fit was like. It's a pattern with lots of options for dresses, tops, and even leggings, which I have not made.</div>
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Pattern Sizing: The pattern is sized 2-5. I used a size 5. I made a size 5 last year, too, and it was big then. I figured the five would be a better fit now. Jane is a pretty standard size 5 in rtw except she is long. Long though the body. These three tops are still running a teensy bit big in width, but that's a good thing as she'll grow in to them. I added a bit of length to the bodice from the get-go, maybe a half inch.</div>
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Fabric Used: The two floral fabrics are recycled from two of my tees. Of course I didn't take any 'before' photos. Do you remember when Uniqlo had the Liberty collection? I bought three tees then and only ever liked one enough to wear it. The fit was off on all three. The fabric, however, was beautiful. So I saved the two tees with the intention of using the fabric for something. Jane got a glimpse of the one with the rainbow colors in it and was all about it. Anything rainbow these days. Both fabrics are a cotton/viscose blend. The black and white fabric is a remnant from a rayon knit I bought at Joann's. I'm pretty sure it was one of their Nicole Miller fabrics. I wish they'd bring back the Nicole Miller stuff. It was decent quality compared to the stuff I've seen there lately.</div>
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Alterations/Deviations: I used the bodice and sleeve pieces from view A but the gathered portion is different on all three. I used the pattern piece as a general guide but the fact that these were all made from smaller pieces of fabric dictated the length and width. I made the rainbow floral one first. I used the bottom of the top (it was a swingy tank top) for the gathered portion after I cut the bodice and sleeve. I really wanted the sleeves on this one so I sacrificed a lot of length. It ended up very cute, but short. I added the navy lace trim to give it a bit more length and I think it's my favorite part. Though she won't be able to wear it much longer before it's a belly shirt. The pink floral top came from a tee (front was floral and back was that solid oatmeal color). No sleeves so I could get all the length. I went a little longer on the length so it's more of a tunic. Both of those don't have all the width due to fabric constraints, so not as much gathering. The black and white version is the actual length and width of the pattern. I did a regular tee shirt neck band on all three instead of a binding.</div>
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Likes/Dislikes: I really like all of them and so does Jane. Of course the rainbow one is her favorite, although she really likes the pink floral one, too. No dislikes. The black and white top is a super stretchy fabric, so I bet she can wear it for a couple of years. All in all, it's a nice, useful pattern. I actually am sewing her another variation right now from some recycled fabric and have a dress planned if I have time before school starts She's starting to make requests. Good thing she's fun to sew for!</div>
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liza janehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16916364137307894200noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6560246728115023530.post-61279319499869077372018-07-31T16:51:00.003-04:002018-07-31T22:30:36.045-04:00Fringe Dress X 3<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Pattern Description: <a href="https://chalkandnotch.com/shop/fringe/">The Fringe Dress</a> from Chalk and Notch Patterns. I don't normally purchase pdf's, but I decided this one was worth it. And it was. I made my first version (the black floral one) two days before Easter in a mad dash because I had nothing that fit my lumpy postpartum body. It's a perfect nursing dress with the front button closure. I liked my black floral one so much that I immediately cut out the orange and blue zig zag version. I only recently made the blue and white stripe goldfish version with some changes, and I don't love it. It's currently on the chopping block. It might become a top.<br />
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Pattern Sizing: Pattern comes in sizes 0-18. I made a 10, which lined up with my bust measurement but not my waist measurement at the moment I gave myself a little more seam allowance at the bottom of the bodice just in case, but I don't think I needed it since the bottom of the bodice hits very high on me. And as an aside, I'm definitely in the midst of the normal postpartum body struggles since I had a baby five months ago. I'm at that point where I really don't know what size I am and nothing fits. And being a second baby, I feel like the weight is just hanging on for dear life. I'm still nursing, though, and I've decided to be kind to myself until I'm done nursing. I'm sucking in like a champ in these photos. Ha!<br />
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Fabric Used: The black floral version and the blue and white stripe goldfish print are both rayon poplin from fabric.com. It's one of my favorite fabrics to work with. The orange and blue zig zag print is a rayon I bought from Hancock right before they closed down.<br />
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Alterations/Deviations: I lengthened the black floral version to a maxi after reading <a href="https://chalkandnotch.com/fringe-maxi-tutorial/">the tutorial</a> on the Chalk and Notch site. No other changes. The bodice hit me just under my bust line, so on my second version I added about 5/8" to the bodice. After looking at pictures, I can't decide if I like the longer bodice or not, but I do get a slight maternity vibe from the black floral dress. For the last version, I roughly went up a size by adding to seam allowances when I cut the fabric. Not the proper way to do it, I know, and I just eye-balled it. I thought I wanted a more relaxed fit. I also added some more width to the the hem line by pivoting from the back and center front. So the skirt has a bit more flare. All three versions I did the button front because I'm nursing a baby. I did the elbow sleeve and sleeve tabs on the orange and blue version, which is a nice design feature. I put the ties on the first two but left them off the goldfish version.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtP_g6HhyphenhyphenD8rN7E1jcyOTJsiyXgcEzoiPHfjyVzr6GJG5Q39ObsL3cWsC6XTxZzXuvmKeY3nq0vrZHOshQNldIjR6e6i3l48BG4E8v3iMXi5snxhiHuJp82vHXPJQ28Hb-bZ_dsgiTqEPY/s1600/FringeDress4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="850" data-original-width="850" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtP_g6HhyphenhyphenD8rN7E1jcyOTJsiyXgcEzoiPHfjyVzr6GJG5Q39ObsL3cWsC6XTxZzXuvmKeY3nq0vrZHOshQNldIjR6e6i3l48BG4E8v3iMXi5snxhiHuJp82vHXPJQ28Hb-bZ_dsgiTqEPY/s1600/FringeDress4.jpg" /></a></div>
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Likes/Dislikes: The pattern is great. The design is really easy to wear and like I said before, it's a great dress for nursing moms. The fit is really spot on according to my measurements, though having the higher waistline helps. I wore my first two versions weekly when I went back to work at the end of the school year and they made me feel good and like I actually had myself together, even though I sure didn't! I love the black maxi version the best. In fact, I'm thinking about making another maxi version before school starts back again in a couple of weeks. I like the orange and blue version a lot, too. I spent forever on pattern placement. I actually had the back piece cut horizontally like the front but discovered I had a slight tilt when I started sewing it together. I had just enough fabric to go back and cut the back bodice the other direction instead. I knew having one side that didn't match up would drive me nuts. I'm not in love with the blue and white stripe goldfish version. Even thought the fabric is supposedly the same substrate as the black floral, it's much thinner and lighter weight. It's slightly see-through, too, so I'll have to wear a slip to wear it to work. I'm also not a fan of the more relaxed fit, although that could have something to do with the fact that I added to the size just by winging it. I think it's going to get chopped shorter and become a top. I also have some pulling at that first button that I need to try and fix.<br />
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Conclusion: Great wearable dress! Skims over my lumpy, post partum mid-section and cinches in the smallest part of my waist. As much as I hate taping together pdf's, this one was worth it!<br />
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Side note: Baby! I haven't been on here much (ummm, last October) but for a very good reason. I can't go without mentioning the new little brother in town, baby B. He was born February 15th and is just the perfect missing piece to our family. I have really been soaking up this time with him, especially since I wasn't sure we'd ever get to have that missing member of our family. I'm not sure how many people are out there still reading my blog after all this time, but if you recall, <a href="http://lizajanesews.blogspot.com/2013/12/so.html">my husband has chronic myeloid leukemia</a>. He was diagnosed shortly after our daughter was born five years ago. With the crazy medication he takes, we weren't sure we'd be able to add to our family. But long story short, we did :). And he's here. And we are just so lucky!<br />
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I don't post much here anymore (obviously) and I skim through my blog roll only occasionally when I get a chance. I do, however, spend more time on Instagram. In fact, I find that most of my blog reading comes from following a link from Instagram these days. I like that I can click through to get the whole story since Instagram is really just a quick snippet. So if you are on Instagram and I don't follow you yet, give me a shout. My account is <a href="https://instagram.com/lizajanesews/">lizajanesews</a>.<br />
<br />liza janehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16916364137307894200noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6560246728115023530.post-31025553290472071572017-10-28T21:32:00.000-04:002017-10-28T22:47:43.069-04:00Rainbow Leopard<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpDft7CT117tvHJ4SFg0tqUjAYGYVY7aCghQsgBxnhw-WcFJ3k8_PbatekrHlejq-0EQyBo2Q4PL1sPpppFbIFdaZcHALx12kfit_N8qJTyBP5LjxOP65Rg1QldO_Y-EnRf9FYTGWxI1NY/s1600/RainbowLeopard1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="850" data-original-width="850" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpDft7CT117tvHJ4SFg0tqUjAYGYVY7aCghQsgBxnhw-WcFJ3k8_PbatekrHlejq-0EQyBo2Q4PL1sPpppFbIFdaZcHALx12kfit_N8qJTyBP5LjxOP65Rg1QldO_Y-EnRf9FYTGWxI1NY/s1600/RainbowLeopard1.jpg" /></a></div>
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It's almost Halloween! You know what that means- time for another homemade Halloween costume. There aren't too many traditions I've made a conscious effort to start with my child, but a handmade Halloween costume is one of them. I plan to make her one every year that she'll let me. And hopefully one day she'll take over and make her own. Next year I'll have two costumes to make...</div>
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This year, Jane was a lot more opinionated about what she wanted to be for Halloween. Although the idea to be her rainbow leopard Beanie Boo came about kind of organically. I started asking her what she wanted to be about two months ago. First it was a duck. Then a tiger. Then a fox, which she settled on for a while. I'm thankful she asked for animal costumes because they are fun to make. I figured a fox would be a cute costume. So I started talking about buying orange fabric for her fox costume. <i>Well</i>. That was when the floodgate of ideas of opened up. She didn't want to be an orange fox. She wanted to be a pink fox, then a purple fox, and so on and so forth (the animal changed multiple times, too) until she settled on a rainbow fox (with spots and stripes and sparkles). While talking about the rainbow fur with spots and stripes and sparkles, we had a revelation that she was really talking about her rainbow leopard Beanie Boo, Dotty. And that was that. I searched online for "rainbow animal print fabric with spots and stripes" and found this awesome fleece blanket on Amazon. I told her that once I ordered the blanket, that was it. She wasn't allowed to change her mind or give any more suggestions, which luckily she didn't.</div>
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Anyway, I used Simplicity 1731, a pattern for an adult, child and DOG jumpsuit. Just in case you wanted to make the whole family matching onesies. I honestly want to make myself a fleece onesie that will accommodate my pregnant belly this winter. I am serious. The pattern is great. I measured the length against a set of footie pajamas that Jane wears all the time. The length was exactly the same (I used the child's size XS/4-5) as her pajamas but there was a ton more width. After getting the fleece blanket in the mail, I decided not to narrow any of the width down due to the blanket being so incredibly fluffy. The rainbow fleece isn't a typical fleece, it's more like faux fur. It has a super deep fluffy pile on both sides of the fabric. It was a pain to cut, a pain to sew and a huge pain to clean up later on. It shed something fierce while cutting and sewing. There was rainbow fluff everywhere. It would fly up in the air and then settle all over everything like rainbow snow. I found it all over the house. It was all over one of our cats at one point. I am pretty sure I inhaled some of it. I sewed everything with a zig zag stitch and serged seam allowances to reduce some of the bulk. I really had to pull the fabric through my machine due to the pile being so fluffy.</div>
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Here she is showing me how fast leopards are and how they sleep in the grass :D</div>
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I made a couple of small changes while sewing. I rounded off the back of the hood. And, of course, added the ears, tail and white belly. The double layer of fleece at the belly was way too thick to install a zipper, so I had to sew it along the seam line and trim off the allowance of the white fleece. The white fleece is leftover from <a href="http://lizajanesews.blogspot.com/2014/10/meow.html">her kitty costume from three years ago</a>! I also sewed on cuffs at the ankles and wrists instead of using elastic. I used some scraps of black bamboo knit. I did shorten the sleeves a teeny bit but the legs are the length per the pattern. The tail is stuffed with a little bit of poly-fil. And we found almost the exact same shiny pink fabric for the front of the ears.</div>
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She loves it! And I love it. She's like a big, snuggly stuffed animal when she's wearing it. She's been wearing it around the house and actually wore it out to a restaurant to meet her grandparents the other day. And thank goodness it will be cold on Halloween this year because this thing is warm. We took these photos on an almost 80 degree day and she was sweaty afterward. She could wear this thing in the snow.</div>
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Happy Halloween, friends!</div>
liza janehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16916364137307894200noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6560246728115023530.post-41948849485509243272017-09-10T11:36:00.002-04:002017-09-10T11:36:32.390-04:00Shirt Dress For A Bump<div style="text-align: center;">
Here are a few more things I made for the growing belly this summer. All of these were for back to work. I've worn the shirt dresses a bunch of times already, but haven't worn the separate pieces at all. The best part about all of these pieces is that they don't look like maternity clothes (I think?) and I definitely plan to wear them after baby is here. The shirt dresses in particular will come in handy when I have to go back to work after giving birth. Don't ask me why I seem so prepared for all of this baby business! I'm really not. At least I'm not prepared in any other aspect of life. But I guess my wardrobe is prepared. Ha! I did get all summer to think about what to sew and then had the time to do it, so that helped.</div>
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Pattern Description: The pattern is one I've made before, <a href="https://mccallpattern.mccall.com/m7314">McCalls 7314</a>. In fact, <a href="http://lizajanesews.blogspot.com/2017/01/two-shirt-dresses.html">when I blogged about this particular dress</a> before, I actually noted that it would be a great maternity pattern. And it is! It's a typical shirtwaist dress but with a raised, curved waist seam. It's perfect for a growing bump. And I will absolutely be wearing my very first version when the weather gets a little cooler (it's below). I left the elastic out of the back waist in that version but I like how it looks with tights and boots. The sleeves are from a different pattern.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiClNbSkv98i4bKCVa83HPwFzDoIjSe8XxyTZMeWqx0Kr9Q22-xidKe8qA-qkfpA5Y8TTPTYeTmWQwcxFmo05VucNc3zGjbyYwOIs9DeBfzhWnVgJVCZR6YB9rDuRQa1fqK5dNR-smAJfez/s1600/M7314.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="521" data-original-width="620" height="335" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiClNbSkv98i4bKCVa83HPwFzDoIjSe8XxyTZMeWqx0Kr9Q22-xidKe8qA-qkfpA5Y8TTPTYeTmWQwcxFmo05VucNc3zGjbyYwOIs9DeBfzhWnVgJVCZR6YB9rDuRQa1fqK5dNR-smAJfez/s400/M7314.gif" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoJ4aQxDRnqpW2ddZziGWt3_4N36MSsaLtIZWYefRq02BwnluMIw7nLDYEaoOuqc3Wu63cWIvrU_2U7L0UshoL-G1ZLZyni0D9s3sJ9OSogl9Vu9FuofkM2-6ZQ0AVi4m1ONCD-KQ26e_u/s1600/BumpShirtDress8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="850" data-original-width="850" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoJ4aQxDRnqpW2ddZziGWt3_4N36MSsaLtIZWYefRq02BwnluMIw7nLDYEaoOuqc3Wu63cWIvrU_2U7L0UshoL-G1ZLZyni0D9s3sJ9OSogl9Vu9FuofkM2-6ZQ0AVi4m1ONCD-KQ26e_u/s1600/BumpShirtDress8.jpg" /></a></div>
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Pattern Sizing: 6-22. I made a 14. </div>
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Fabric Used: I made the navy, shibori print dress first. It's a rayon poplin that I bought from fabric.com a while back. I've seen many other folks with the same fabric and for good reason. It's really nice stuff. I think rayon poplin might be my favorite dress fabric. It's got great drape but is way sturdier than rayon challis and totally opaque. I made the black and white gingham version next. It is a rayon challis I've had for a while, too. The top version is a plain white rayon challis that I bought yards of when Hancock closed down. And the pants are made from the leftover rayon poplin from my very first version of the dress above. I'm trying to sew through some of my stash as my fabric closet is going to be new baby's closet. I've got to downsize! I'll make some quick notes about the pants at the bottom of this post. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDF49apmUVCGC8Ma9N0KabANgkasfdbDtbYNH-oo7nFV_9jo3UFcIdROyP0xkNnqeEXVaiEM7QcCY3sIzHiQ-OY4QgU2qaov-gesWWbNkSyHS7pSqmF0XW1Y28q_2CQAkAMZ2uXyHsSzEr/s1600/BumpShirtdress3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="850" data-original-width="850" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDF49apmUVCGC8Ma9N0KabANgkasfdbDtbYNH-oo7nFV_9jo3UFcIdROyP0xkNnqeEXVaiEM7QcCY3sIzHiQ-OY4QgU2qaov-gesWWbNkSyHS7pSqmF0XW1Y28q_2CQAkAMZ2uXyHsSzEr/s1600/BumpShirtdress3.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLIJrKRkbsmjnPewksiJgU7TN0VkNp1J8QJMY42y_3-D8tm0vhLC_8i8lZwMC43wiRamj5h1mG3anhpaSqKVrTV9ZD36b8OIEssbXClnI01n2a6_n9zSYtq0kQ9wqJbrOjsMj1heU9pewK/s1600/BumpShirtDress2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="850" data-original-width="850" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLIJrKRkbsmjnPewksiJgU7TN0VkNp1J8QJMY42y_3-D8tm0vhLC_8i8lZwMC43wiRamj5h1mG3anhpaSqKVrTV9ZD36b8OIEssbXClnI01n2a6_n9zSYtq0kQ9wqJbrOjsMj1heU9pewK/s1600/BumpShirtDress2.jpg" /></a></div>
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Alterations/ Deviations: The navy shibori print dress has almost no alterations except my standard square shoulder adjustment. I played around with the shoulder fit more on the gingham version (and the armscye), but honestly, I think the shoulders look better on the navy version. I also played around with button placement on the gingham version but I like it better per the pattern. The gingham dress is longer, too. About three inches, I think. I spent forever matching up the checks on the gingham when I cut out pattern pieces. The bodice looks decent but there is a little slant to the skirt. Oh well. It was not fun to cut out. I made the blouse last. It's okay. I put the elastic in the back waist of both dresses but did not like it in the top version. So I left it loose and billowy. The top version seems to fit so much larger for some reason. Maybe fabric choice- cheap fabric, looser weave.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf80jso2x3fuRA60NWjzqyNIf0H-BF4ANIAYN6m-D7DLwXXk52Fm1k6hBD1vMuIR8gn3giGH-eDS4vIBuRUch8rvlT5_FtjMMHaWG613Zwa8gIJ2_5wDq0o1CYh65H-dXRsKsd7GougRh0/s1600/BumpShirtdress1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="850" data-original-width="850" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf80jso2x3fuRA60NWjzqyNIf0H-BF4ANIAYN6m-D7DLwXXk52Fm1k6hBD1vMuIR8gn3giGH-eDS4vIBuRUch8rvlT5_FtjMMHaWG613Zwa8gIJ2_5wDq0o1CYh65H-dXRsKsd7GougRh0/s1600/BumpShirtdress1.jpg" /></a></div>
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Likes/ Dislikes: I love both dress versions. The curved waist seam is just perfect for a belly. I plan to wear both dresses after baby, too. I'm hoping the buttons will make it nursing friendly. Like I said before, the blouse and pants haven't been worn at all. I think I like both pieces separately, but not together. It's too much fabric to wear at once. I'll wear the blouse with a skinnier bottom but I'll probably just save the pants for later. You can't tell in these photos, but the blouse has fun buttons. They are clear with glitter.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz51ddLGCahxiHSYeXk9Q5i7iqVbinGC6DWhVA_aEfOemQ0nmWRkxEyp9TnKx4uNYqbdt3cgmAObEhFtNw2m7vAdXCTJgzqFDiZoz-Gmys2jPeN0D0Q6_UqD9GBomhxcJM3V_lguAX2nbE/s1600/BumpShirtdress6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="850" data-original-width="850" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz51ddLGCahxiHSYeXk9Q5i7iqVbinGC6DWhVA_aEfOemQ0nmWRkxEyp9TnKx4uNYqbdt3cgmAObEhFtNw2m7vAdXCTJgzqFDiZoz-Gmys2jPeN0D0Q6_UqD9GBomhxcJM3V_lguAX2nbE/s1600/BumpShirtdress6.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI7-C-MqT6x7wORMNH1CGr9J1PKpRgVvWJNEJalnlUB_NKJ5377WvKTydqnzxfXoSe40-I6n7eV5Yfg_mzMR7cNBaT1X1OQkQoCZN8r7CLOiaRgt2BiEhxOFyZTmHyDT19Lc2soJWAJl6Y/s1600/BumpShirtdress7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="850" data-original-width="850" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI7-C-MqT6x7wORMNH1CGr9J1PKpRgVvWJNEJalnlUB_NKJ5377WvKTydqnzxfXoSe40-I6n7eV5Yfg_mzMR7cNBaT1X1OQkQoCZN8r7CLOiaRgt2BiEhxOFyZTmHyDT19Lc2soJWAJl6Y/s1600/BumpShirtdress7.jpg" /></a></div>
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And just some quick notes about the pants: They are <a href="https://butterick.mccall.com/b5893">Butterick 5893</a>. I made view A, the straight leg version with side seam pockets. I cropped mine. I also shortened the rise a little bit. They have an elastic waist. They feel nice to wear in rayon poplin again, but I'm not sure what sort of top to wear them with. I'll have to figure it out.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKpDo_FZ_QgFXpIfbullaYiLkLky_Jqhyphenhyphenxc0rql6Ik_rrTnytkMr3-t_SbMW-WsKMzHe0xaXN4s_eicCOuZTh6j2QxRhRy_czioibvPFz0tk3pQoK0o450e1jml_V_1z3S0lRRExPTgABg/s1600/BumpShirtdress4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="850" data-original-width="850" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKpDo_FZ_QgFXpIfbullaYiLkLky_Jqhyphenhyphenxc0rql6Ik_rrTnytkMr3-t_SbMW-WsKMzHe0xaXN4s_eicCOuZTh6j2QxRhRy_czioibvPFz0tk3pQoK0o450e1jml_V_1z3S0lRRExPTgABg/s1600/BumpShirtdress4.jpg" /></a></div>
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Conclusion: Great shirt waist dress pattern. Perfect for summer and also happens to be perfect for early maternity wear! I took these photos the same time I took the photos for my last post. So this is just a 15 week little baby bump. It's getting bigger now. I think it's time to look at actual maternity patterns and for colder weather, too.</div>
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liza janehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16916364137307894200noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6560246728115023530.post-60115739471798620332017-09-02T13:23:00.002-04:002017-09-02T13:23:31.272-04:00Well, Hello!<div style="text-align: center;">
Well, hello there! I didn't mean to be absent from this space for such a long time. But it seems my posts are fewer and far in between as time goes on. However, I have good reason for being silent for some time...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCbO5-F1vu-lj6p4HJpVs4B1r5hR1L9OJhRg_8JpoywAsB6y16r9YrrH5Rpevi1cGcQc4YHJ5ceXl0sRaJlb4cuoqwp2AWiBlCjmPiQvWeIWxzFAsybBqwB4SVHWSuZLYugh4-hUSP0jjv/s1600/WrapAll.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="508" data-original-width="850" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCbO5-F1vu-lj6p4HJpVs4B1r5hR1L9OJhRg_8JpoywAsB6y16r9YrrH5Rpevi1cGcQc4YHJ5ceXl0sRaJlb4cuoqwp2AWiBlCjmPiQvWeIWxzFAsybBqwB4SVHWSuZLYugh4-hUSP0jjv/s1600/WrapAll.jpg" /></a></div>
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Baby! Yes, baby number 2 is on it's way. I found out I was pregnant the second day of summer vacation (I'm a teacher) and have spent the whole summer taking it very easy. It was fabulous. I thought my timing with my daughter was great before. I had her in April and got to stay out the rest of the school year. But I think this timing is even better as I got to spend my entire first trimester at home. I'm back at work now but it's going well. Baby is due early February. I will have to go back to work the last month of school or so (womp, womp - American maternity leave). But then I'll get all of next summer, too. I've felt like my baby bump is enormous this time around, but looking at these photos I realize it's not. Ha! It's just a little bump. I took these photos a couple of weeks ago so I think I was around 15 weeks at that time. I am a little bigger now! We still don't know it it's a boy or girl yet, but we'll find out in a few weeks. Jane says she wants a little brother, believe it or not.</div>
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Since I was home all summer thinking about my school year and new arrival, I spent lots of time sewing for a bump. I was actually making the orange dress in my photos when I found out I was preggo. And I thought it would be a great dress for skimming over a little bump, with a few alterations. So I made four versions! I figured this would be a great dress/top for a growing bump but also would be nice for after pregnancy. To the review...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxjhHxUU2sUEANyKWv3quT7MlAwOEKonLX997usSjJyFAKuuYMTomfiC4DRZFDaBKpMZabLUZN0oc60ZgK3tAUzEPmHun3UHjEhniXpyjBTayfThZ3ICq21n6dt-baww-C5Ej7ihUL7h_U/s1600/simplicity-knit-jumpsuit-pattern-8333-front-back-view.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="502" data-original-width="502" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxjhHxUU2sUEANyKWv3quT7MlAwOEKonLX997usSjJyFAKuuYMTomfiC4DRZFDaBKpMZabLUZN0oc60ZgK3tAUzEPmHun3UHjEhniXpyjBTayfThZ3ICq21n6dt-baww-C5Ej7ihUL7h_U/s400/simplicity-knit-jumpsuit-pattern-8333-front-back-view.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Pattern Description: The pattern is <a href="http://www.simplicity.com/simplicity-pattern-8333-misses-knit-jumpsuit-and-dress/S8333.html#sz=30&start=42">Simplicity 8333</a>, a jumpsuit/dress pattern with a crossover bodice for knit fabrics. I thought it looked like an easy pattern for summer when I first decided to make it.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijdP8Q9JA3JKUjMwdiHSlKDbII2ETgcJVBkwAjfazoY6h0Do3oCmhmnNuhJaylWqCEk99gCg-HWs0Nuos8-TXH3PYPjRhls0Q0dHmrZ-pARehKxcYzmzZ3_jRG3Ex7D_EL90iJLHiv9Wck/s1600/WrapOrange2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="850" data-original-width="850" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijdP8Q9JA3JKUjMwdiHSlKDbII2ETgcJVBkwAjfazoY6h0Do3oCmhmnNuhJaylWqCEk99gCg-HWs0Nuos8-TXH3PYPjRhls0Q0dHmrZ-pARehKxcYzmzZ3_jRG3Ex7D_EL90iJLHiv9Wck/s1600/WrapOrange2.jpg" /></a></div>
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Sizing: 4-20. I made a 12. I am typically a 14 but I usually size down when I make a knit pattern.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtA_FLTDpY6rx9SRwJJhnrpSDGY4w8XxR03iqyf0WG43Gu5GAB91gy6inahvFGbWiLFnnNVbHGEJaYUUnkrb4l4BkDMd0W6KfrjfL7Nhr_crswCSQ5CWaqdRyu98vliHTFPA3vJjM2VQBe/s1600/WrapBlack2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="850" data-original-width="850" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtA_FLTDpY6rx9SRwJJhnrpSDGY4w8XxR03iqyf0WG43Gu5GAB91gy6inahvFGbWiLFnnNVbHGEJaYUUnkrb4l4BkDMd0W6KfrjfL7Nhr_crswCSQ5CWaqdRyu98vliHTFPA3vJjM2VQBe/s1600/WrapBlack2.jpg" /></a></div>
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Fabric Used: All knits, of course, but different knits behaved differently. My favorites are the orange dress and the red/pink longer dress. Those knits are a rayon blend and had strong recovery. The black and white tie-dye top is a bamboo knit from fabric.com. I works well for a top but would be too drape-y for a dress. The green version is my least favorite. It's a rayon jersey (Dakota jersey from fabric.com) and is too thin and wrinkly. I think maybe it's a cotton/rayon blend? Can't remember. Anyway, I like well enough but I think it looks sloppier than the others.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsWI1PZ9VcfhPvB3sg5M2-2l1ARxGj7YVL9ct4RlrCg0VF56-alWZnDX6fsxQikO5nwlgMPDlytjRJXLvfoHNhLPatpc-fkxlJRk6nhzeRhwDaJgsy8XoNfapBiszRmm28dW-9Z9FJbyI4/s1600/WrapGreen2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="850" data-original-width="850" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsWI1PZ9VcfhPvB3sg5M2-2l1ARxGj7YVL9ct4RlrCg0VF56-alWZnDX6fsxQikO5nwlgMPDlytjRJXLvfoHNhLPatpc-fkxlJRk6nhzeRhwDaJgsy8XoNfapBiszRmm28dW-9Z9FJbyI4/s1600/WrapGreen2.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf-f6LNKVKMOi2ycsmpSe9hvLwXRseVRlK_uplN4HdTa5tOubtiTdJxhHJh3l_PklWfMvLw7ZT-NqLhB2Bw4SlnAfwjpUVi3Z8SmpEAq-Vy9ny4Jx5XYQIb0SbWY5UyGzmNP-kaS3t_knU/s1600/WrapGreen1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="850" data-original-width="850" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf-f6LNKVKMOi2ycsmpSe9hvLwXRseVRlK_uplN4HdTa5tOubtiTdJxhHJh3l_PklWfMvLw7ZT-NqLhB2Bw4SlnAfwjpUVi3Z8SmpEAq-Vy9ny4Jx5XYQIb0SbWY5UyGzmNP-kaS3t_knU/s1600/WrapGreen1.jpg" /></a></div>
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Likes/Dislikes: I love the bodice with the cut on sleeve. It's the main reason I made these. The skirt is modified from the get-go. When I cut the pattern, I noticed that the skirt pattern piece was just a perfectly straight rectangle which does not work for someone with saddle-baggy hips like myself. So I used the top of the rectangle as a guide and made it in to a-line shape to accommodate my hip measurement. They all have pockets except for the top version. I know people don't like pockets in jersey, but I love pockets no matter what. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyMyuGr8JWbgJXR3WLxB9UfwBLoK4l6NsjBflVw-KL6c67yydbM1mWhSX9vy5vn18aOify7XKl-4TJMV2bV2GdwVWf_zU4r2P2IR0ioBRwGb9bxD-uax674BHWzdX0QCguzkcr4IlMgsvk/s1600/WrapOrange1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="850" data-original-width="850" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyMyuGr8JWbgJXR3WLxB9UfwBLoK4l6NsjBflVw-KL6c67yydbM1mWhSX9vy5vn18aOify7XKl-4TJMV2bV2GdwVWf_zU4r2P2IR0ioBRwGb9bxD-uax674BHWzdX0QCguzkcr4IlMgsvk/s1600/WrapOrange1.jpg" /></a></div>
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Alterations/Deviations: In addition to the skirt modification I mentioned above, I also added elastic in to the neckline of all versions. When I sewed on the neck binding, I threaded a long piece of 1/4" elastic through the binding like a casing. I pulled the elastic slightly and sewed at the shoulder seams so the back neckline is nice and taut. I just pulled the elastic ever so slightly at the front bodice to keep a little tension on the front neckline before sewing the bodice to the skirt. It worked well on all versions except the green one (because the knit is so droopy). I'm so pleased with the elastic in the neckline because that neckline is not going anywhere! I also sewed one snap at the front where the bodice pieces crossover to hold in place. My plan is to also wear these dresses after pregnancy while I'm nursing. The elastic should keep everything from stretching out and I can undo the snap easily. I cut all the back bodice pieces on the fold, too, except for the red/pink version due to amount of fabric. </div>
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All the dresses have hem and sleeve length differences, too. The orange dress is the shorter sleeve in the pattern and the skirt length is per the pattern plus one inch. So it's a pretty short skirt as is, fyi. The green dress I cut the longer sleeve and added several inches to the hem thinking I would wear this one to work. I made the top version next. And then the pink/red version is about ankle length because that was every bit of fabric I had. That fabric is one I bought when Hancock was closing down. I miss Hancock!</div>
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Conclusion: Nice, easy knit dress pattern. Perfect for a growing bump, but I stress <i>growing</i>. The elastic waist does hit the top of my belly and I know once my mid-section gets a little bigger I won't want to wear any of these as is. Maybe with a raised and curved waist it would work for an entire pregnancy.</div>
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liza janehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16916364137307894200noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6560246728115023530.post-30557070524492058762017-06-06T23:36:00.000-04:002017-06-06T23:36:10.976-04:00More Sleeves!<div style="text-align: center;">
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These are some serious sleeves, <a href="http://lizajanesews.blogspot.com/2017/03/sleeves.html">again</a>! I guess it really is 'the year of the sleeve.' Or am I behind a year? I usually am. Anyway, I made this dress back in April for Easter. I actually took photos then, too, but have not even thought about blogging until now. Why now, do you ask? Schools out! Glorious free time! Woo hoo! Today was my last workday for the next nine weeks. I love summer!! </div>
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Pattern Description: <a href="https://mccallpattern.mccall.com/m7385">McCalls 7385</a>. I made view C but with the awesome circular flutter sleeves. I've had this pattern for a while. I have seen a few sleeveless versions but not any with the big sleeves. I now see why the giant sleeves are only on the shirt view, though. A whole lotta fabric went in to this dress. Five yards. Yes, five! I lined the sleeves and bodice. And while I like the end result just fine, I do feel like I'm being swallowed up by all that fabric. </div>
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Pattern Sizing: 6-22. I made a 14 but I do believe I nipped it in a bit. It's been while since I made it, so it's hard to remember everything I did.</div>
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Fabric Used: A rayon challis, I believe this is from Gertie's line of fabrics at Joann's. I really, really tried to shop my stash but didn't have anything spring-y for Easter. So I went to Joann's just to browse and this electric blue floral print jumped out at me. It's not a style I would typically go for but I think it works with the dress. And I felt nice and bright and springlike when I wore it. I am a little concerned about the longevity of the fabric. I had a lot of trouble with warping and stretching out while I was sewing. I guess that means the weave is looser. It's nice and swishy, though. On the downside, you really can't see any of my seam lines in this busy print.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg__qwP0AW7650mVzZ7i9x3QPK02ZUhE2snxDNLyGOWjEK0_HfXr80JsCqUzAy7fX2Mwwjlq1Fdaf-ZyUowgu20BvWP9kEpQyrY-mxAF91Pew0xFlMQ5uuOU3NSVFHEFriLdn_XGnOjOC4B/s1600/BlueDress5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="592" data-original-width="850" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg__qwP0AW7650mVzZ7i9x3QPK02ZUhE2snxDNLyGOWjEK0_HfXr80JsCqUzAy7fX2Mwwjlq1Fdaf-ZyUowgu20BvWP9kEpQyrY-mxAF91Pew0xFlMQ5uuOU3NSVFHEFriLdn_XGnOjOC4B/s1600/BlueDress5.jpg" /></a></div>
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Likes/Dislikes: I like the lines of this pattern. The gathering on the side is nice and I like that it doesn't continue across the center front. I like the raised waist. It hits me at my smallest measurement. I also like the split neck. I do have a little bit of pulling at the split towards my shoulders. Typical issue for me. I think I squared the shoulders some, but can't remember. I usually do. The split neck should be lined in the pattern instruction but it's not. It stays open and you would see the wrong side of the fabric all the time. Luckily I read a couple of reviews of the pattern, <a href="http://sewingfantaticdiary.blogspot.com/2016/08/mccalls-7385-flowy-maxi-dress.html">including Carolyn's</a>, so I planned ahead and lined the whole bodice- front, back and side pieces. The original instructions have you line just the side front and back to get a clean edge on the armholes. </div>
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Alterations/Deviations: Like I said above, I lined the whole bodice. I used all the same pattern pieces, cutting the center front at the waistline. I also self-lined the sleeves. I put one sleeve on as a single layer but didn't like seeing the wrong side of the fabric. So I cut two sets of sleeves and stitched together at the hem before sewing them to the armscye. Those sleeve pieces are fabric eaters! Saved me from having to hem that giant circle, though. I added interfacing to some areas on the bodice after the fact as I was sewing. The pattern doesn't call for any interfacing, but I think you need some if you are using a floppy fabric like rayon challis. I interfaced the front edges of the split (shell and lining) and around the neckline. Like I said before, I was having some trouble with warping and this was my solution. I added side seam pockets, too. I love shoving my hands in my pockets. The finished dress was also pretty short. You probably can't tell, but I used my last little scrap of fabric to add a hem band to the bottom of the skirt. For length, but also to add a little bit of weight to the skirt. With all the lining on the bodice and sleeves, the dress is pretty top heavy. I probably should have lined the whole dress in a lining fabric, minus the front neck split.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGxCxUyHMD2hWlioMU2fu1mo8HpU1AWWeUj1ZzE8rd4MvNB4HAik6TUcQ2kqnHzccDQlNewM27KqnOM83T7xnBMp22515SdtSNfkoxhnfhw3IeecGoFP34oTJJQFL_tG0ERTpkgWVyZ6AQ/s1600/BlueDress3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="850" data-original-width="850" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGxCxUyHMD2hWlioMU2fu1mo8HpU1AWWeUj1ZzE8rd4MvNB4HAik6TUcQ2kqnHzccDQlNewM27KqnOM83T7xnBMp22515SdtSNfkoxhnfhw3IeecGoFP34oTJJQFL_tG0ERTpkgWVyZ6AQ/s1600/BlueDress3.jpg" /></a></div>
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Conclusion: I enjoyed wearing my new dress. I like the cut of the dress even if it gets overshadowed by those massive sleeves. I'd love to make the maxi version this summer though sleeveless for sure. The front slit on the maxi view is calling my name. If I make those big sleeves again, I'll stick with just a top version.</div>
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<br />liza janehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16916364137307894200noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6560246728115023530.post-25897838458113547432017-04-25T22:41:00.000-04:002017-04-25T22:41:18.000-04:00A Dress, Some Curtains and a Birthday Eggstravangza<div style="text-align: center;">
The title says it all! I've done quite a bit for the girl here lately, so here it is all in one post. First up is the dress.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdQz4YDwh6Z8flL5UGZv2MOx_p3qwlT2Wbew7_CntBnMQ5V7Ayl9kvAzW-BF8uVuPGeTO8uutnF12K4bZGy4G1Vk6iD9cfFPOXm8y5n6dZbf8xb3MpwNPC3TRgj1dY26CLkxoMbwMiMVAJ/s1600/FlamingoDress4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdQz4YDwh6Z8flL5UGZv2MOx_p3qwlT2Wbew7_CntBnMQ5V7Ayl9kvAzW-BF8uVuPGeTO8uutnF12K4bZGy4G1Vk6iD9cfFPOXm8y5n6dZbf8xb3MpwNPC3TRgj1dY26CLkxoMbwMiMVAJ/s1600/FlamingoDress4.jpg" /></a></div>
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Jane had picture day at school a month or so ago. I decided to make her a dress for the occasion. I'm so glad I sew. The pattern is <a href="http://www.simplicity.com/burda-style-pattern-b9362-child-dress-blouse-and-skirt/X09362BURDA.html">Burda envelope pattern 9362</a>. I've made a few Burda kids patterns now and I'm always pleased with the fit. It seems pretty accurate. I made a size 4, which is what Jane wears in rtw. The shoulder fit and overall width is just right. I made the dress, sans ruffle, but with the flutter sleeves. I love those little flutter sleeves.</div>
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I used a swiss dot printed with flamingos (flamingoes?) that I found at Joann's. I had the pink seersucker in the stash from years ago. This dress is pretty simple but I went a little fancy with the finishing. I lined the whole thing with white rayon challis I had. The swiss dot definitely needed a lining. I wanted to do a two layer skirt with the pink seersucker but was worried it would be too stiff for the gathering at the waist- hence the two piece skirt lining below. </div>
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It's a very cute little pattern. I plan on making the top version soon with some leftover rayon. Jane seems pleased with it, too, though she refused to take any serious photos. These are some of her modeling poses below. She'll get lots of use out of this dress over the summer.</div>
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Next up is a set of curtains I sewed for Jane's room. She has officially switched over to a big girl room :( I tried to keep her in that toddler bed as long as I could. But she's in her big girl bed and loving it. I made her curtains and some bedding before she was born (<a href="http://lizajanesews.blogspot.com/2013/01/some-progress.html">see here</a> and <a href="http://lizajanesews.blogspot.com/2013/02/a-mobile-for-baby.html">here</a>). The curtain fabric faded like crazy in the sun (we originally didn't have blinds up) so I figured it was time for some new ones. Also, see birthday party eggstravaganza below-- we went a little nuts doing some home improvement stuff because we knew we'd have lots of guest over for her birthday party. I waffled over different color schemes for her room but ultimately we went with rainbow. I mean, who doesn't love rainbows? Jane loves her rainbow curtains and now I don't have to worry about anything matching, so it's a win-win. I found this fabric on fabric.com and it's just perfect. Hopefully it doesn't fade too bad.</div>
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The curtains are just a simple tab top. We actually are planning on raising that curtain rod a couple of inches but haven't gotten around to it yet. I didn't order quite enough fabric for the length we needed so I used a leftover piece of fabric from her baby bedding as a hem facing, which is my favorite part. I know curtains are a boring sewing project but I like seeing other peoples home decor sewing, so there you go.</div>
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I couldn't figure out a good time of day to take a photo so it's little dark. But for posterity, above is Jane's room somewhat clean right before her birthday party. Hasn't looked like this since!</div>
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Jane's fourth birthday party was great fun. She is obsessed with these crazy surprise egg videos on YouTube. I'm not sure what the pull is, but she would watch them over and over again if I let her. So we decided to have an EGGstravangza birthday party, complete with egg crafts, egg themed food and an egg hunt of course. It also happened to be the weekend before Easter.</div>
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Somebody should have restricted me from Pinterest beforehand. Pinterest gets full credit for the peep centerpiece and bunny cups. So much work! It's funny how a 'little get-together' can turn in to something so crazy. I'm glad I snapped a pic of the spread before it was eaten up. Jane helped with a lot of the prep. She did some of the faces on the bunny cups (my favorite!) and helped set up the craft table and made examples. It was fun having a helper. We made an egg scratch board and little bunnies using plastic eggs and pipe cleaners.</div>
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I promise there were other kids there but didn't want to post pics without permission, so you just get Jane. We also made those bunny bags for the egg hunt. She had a ball.</div>
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This girl. I can't believe she's four! Everyone told me it goes by fast but I had no idea. She is just so much fun, uncooperative camera faces and all.</div>
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liza janehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16916364137307894200noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6560246728115023530.post-45777862810986167612017-03-22T22:46:00.000-04:002017-03-22T22:46:47.643-04:00Sleeves!<div style="text-align: center;">
I wore this to work the other day for the first time. Um, let's just say that these sleeves are not made for art teacherin'. I just about dipped them in to paint/glue/glaze on several occasions. Then I almost cut them in the paper cutter. I finally had to tie them up over my elbow with a rubber band to teach the rest of the day. However, these sleeves are made for swanning around and looking groovy! I love them. I just maybe need to think about what I'm going to teach that day before I wear this to work again. Anyway, to the review...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoUgVDAImv6WSZ3uPvvOPXknlOmB332RHjljKO_Oxb9cOGYphvLJDQw0JZ61fvkyIrNi-OtN1bHcXkhED_j4-rFn0gYniq1DT8tO80Js0tXjNaCNtySvKDfAWOnV-ZFQ4BYLkBvPxS9D8v/s1600/Sleeves1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoUgVDAImv6WSZ3uPvvOPXknlOmB332RHjljKO_Oxb9cOGYphvLJDQw0JZ61fvkyIrNi-OtN1bHcXkhED_j4-rFn0gYniq1DT8tO80Js0tXjNaCNtySvKDfAWOnV-ZFQ4BYLkBvPxS9D8v/s1600/Sleeves1.jpg" /></a></div>
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Pattern Description: <a href="https://mccallpattern.mccall.com/m7545">McCalls 7545</a>. Misses split neck top with flared sleeves. There are three different views; a short sleeve version without the flared sleeve, a version with a long flared sleeve with sleeve bands, and a version made for border prints with a gathering. It's a very groovy looking pattern. I made view B with the sleeve bands because I was drawn to the view with the two contrasting fabrics.</div>
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Pattern Sizing: 6-22. I made a 14. I waffled between making a 12 or 14 but ultimately went with the larger size because I was worried about the shoulders being too tight.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNg36AaocPZT_xA-x-WPcquTIKJjJK-Qhl6NRl0Lzet2kMHu9fA9UOCulnLaE5kZKCwhWrbBO62vgtKD5ExwcDzVeVJcaPOqbW1PkgTfKq2RFboepNEm3O4o-JGS-mFxITynQd-Wt1KXHR/s1600/Sleeves4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNg36AaocPZT_xA-x-WPcquTIKJjJK-Qhl6NRl0Lzet2kMHu9fA9UOCulnLaE5kZKCwhWrbBO62vgtKD5ExwcDzVeVJcaPOqbW1PkgTfKq2RFboepNEm3O4o-JGS-mFxITynQd-Wt1KXHR/s1600/Sleeves4.jpg" /></a></div>
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Fabric Used: I used two different rayon challis prints I found at Joann's. I really didn't want the two fabrics to match at all. I wanted them to sort of clash, but not in a bad way. I spent FOREVER cutting this out. Single layer, painstakingly making sure each side matched up. I think the time spent paid off although there are few places that aren't perfect. I couldn't decide how to use the crazy border print so I cut two different center fronts and back yokes to help me decide. The one I decided not to use on the outside, I used inside for the facings.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl-x0S6nXacfQWDWfpCPdHh2jcNTx6JIjvsYA-ERAQ_isjTLTRQhebfqN3mtb5JjYvZG4tqvzx2dBp178g6jINIfa09h1GgZu0YyFTWwXnZvqsEpcLBpxcrxhD-0JfA5RICoRfCDjJqG6D/s1600/Sleeves7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl-x0S6nXacfQWDWfpCPdHh2jcNTx6JIjvsYA-ERAQ_isjTLTRQhebfqN3mtb5JjYvZG4tqvzx2dBp178g6jINIfa09h1GgZu0YyFTWwXnZvqsEpcLBpxcrxhD-0JfA5RICoRfCDjJqG6D/s1600/Sleeves7.jpg" /></a></div>
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Likes/Dislikes: I love the sleeves, obviously. And I love the two fabrics together. However, there are some fit quirks that I don't love (see below). I also did not love how deep the split neck was. I ended up tacking it up higher. I had a fit issue with the width of the neck line as well. Tacking the split closed higher made that issue much less noticeable. My cording is just ok. I couldn't find exactly what I wanted so I braided some thinner crochet yarn I had to make a thicker cord. We'll see how that washes. I ended up cutting the ties much shorter since I'm not tying the split neck closed anyway. They are purely decorative. The insides are just as pretty as the outside, although I didn't do all the slip stitching by hand. Ain't nobody got time for that. I just serged the edge of the facings and top stitched from the outside.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaL4160IvwVksPEe9a4UXJZVqAV3x06VzXTlfdUrAaS99r5fE4FSzRiqgH5mU3Exw47gVEtJa86suLzv7nZIki2ukqSs0vev4b8DC9RebjrAOXwqz07z92stif079f3qCLFn1shxtR8TZl/s1600/Sleeves6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaL4160IvwVksPEe9a4UXJZVqAV3x06VzXTlfdUrAaS99r5fE4FSzRiqgH5mU3Exw47gVEtJa86suLzv7nZIki2ukqSs0vev4b8DC9RebjrAOXwqz07z92stif079f3qCLFn1shxtR8TZl/s1600/Sleeves6.jpg" /></a></div>
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Alterations/Deviations: I did not make a single alteration to this particular top. Not a one. I spent so much time cutting out the fabric that I didn't want to mess with any alterations from the beginning. I figured the drape-y fabric and the relaxed fit would be forgiving. And it is for the most part. I definitely need to square up the shoulders. There is this weird fit issue through the shoulders and front where the top part if much too wide. The ends of the shoulders sort of pull off the ends of my shoulder, if that makes sense. If I pick up the inner corners of the shoulders and pinch off the excess, that goes away. The armhole is also very high. If I make this again, I will definitely do a substantial square shoulder adjustment without raising the armhole to match. I also will take out some width from the center front (and maybe even center back). I bet my neck split wouldn't be too deep with those fit changes either. So, once again, I have shoulder fit issues. I am about ready to maybe try and draft my own block to see if I can solve my shoulder fit issues once and for all.</div>
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Conclusion: I really love the finished top, shoulder fit issues and all. I am interested in making this again, but it is a little lower on my list. I'm actually kind of interested in the short sleeve version. </div>
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liza janehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16916364137307894200noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6560246728115023530.post-67600309599210790972017-02-04T23:42:00.000-05:002017-02-04T23:42:59.714-05:00A Bunch of Knits<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgenJourn8Ea1LU8Rif5dnNvmmzjSNYzss1T0EN4YekIo37Q0MMAV_KH-1WCIWxXwASulnWE6sjlqZ_ZgWqloBTLcIr1SEW5tfj6-fUPH8xyUlPTJdl8VcI5qTEmWoWnsuY8ZdP4CYBxres/s1600/BunchKnits10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgenJourn8Ea1LU8Rif5dnNvmmzjSNYzss1T0EN4YekIo37Q0MMAV_KH-1WCIWxXwASulnWE6sjlqZ_ZgWqloBTLcIr1SEW5tfj6-fUPH8xyUlPTJdl8VcI5qTEmWoWnsuY8ZdP4CYBxres/s1600/BunchKnits10.jpg" /></a></div>
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I didn't realize at the time that all the things I made in the last month and a half coordinate so well. I can't say I planned that, though. I guess I know what I like when it comes to choosing fabric! I've made a bunch of easy knit things since Christmas. I seem to go through phases in my sewing where I just want to beef up my wardrobe fast. And that's what I did. Easy, knit tops are almost like instant gratification when it comes to sewing projects. Anyway, I decided just to put all these quick sews in one blog post and write a brief pattern review of each. Hopefully it's not too massive of a blog post to read.</div>
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First up is this funky tunic. I used a Nicole Miller knit I bought from Joann's last winter. I got a gift card for Christmas last year to Joann's so I ordered online instead of buying in store. I had no idea the feather print on this fabric was so big when I ordered it. It wasn't going to work for what I originally planned, so it sat in my stash. I didn't really love the color scheme either when I saw it in real life. There is a lot of green and yellow. But now that I've made this top, I'm really liking it. This is just another iteration of <a href="http://www.simplicity.com/simplicity-pattern-1071-misses-and-plus-size-knit-sportswear/1071.html">Simplicity 1071</a>, which <a href="http://lizajanesews.blogspot.com/2015/11/boring-sewing.html">I have made too many times to count now</a>. It's a super easy, boxy top with a great neckline. I highly, highly recommend the pattern if you are looking for a top like this. On this version, I added a cowl (from another pattern I can't remember right now) and lengthened it about ten inches. I also did extra deep side slits. I've worn it over jeans like this and over leggings. The back is slightly longer than the front.</div>
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Next are two <a href="http://www.stylearc.com.au/stylearc/index.php?page=shop.product_details&product_id=608&flypage=flypage.tpl&pop=0&option=com_virtuemart&Itemid=47">StyleArc Sunny top</a>s. I love this pattern. The top has a cocoon shape, wider through the middle, and nice slim sleeves. I made the grey version first from a sweater knit I found at Joann's. Wish I had more of this fabric. It's nice snuggly stuff. I went back for more but it was all gone. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDEu0egsu1S4MlRcEHT_L5V7VDu3MXEbL6YMgdEidS_vyr3g2gP6gMTfaswkL3E2JzunmOI6ouYJurzc_F9IvbffHhqFsClTyXvgO5PCVshCiTjfGIQrJaNwN02LnCnWbpTa0lQ0PIyrKE/s1600/BunchKnits1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDEu0egsu1S4MlRcEHT_L5V7VDu3MXEbL6YMgdEidS_vyr3g2gP6gMTfaswkL3E2JzunmOI6ouYJurzc_F9IvbffHhqFsClTyXvgO5PCVshCiTjfGIQrJaNwN02LnCnWbpTa0lQ0PIyrKE/s1600/BunchKnits1.jpg" /></a></div>
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I've only sewn two StyleArc patterns so far, but I've liked them both. The instructions are minimal but that's okay for a top like this. I screwed up the neck band on the grey version. I really should have pulled it tighter. There was no way to unpick with the plush sweater knit, though. So I left it as is. It bothers me in these photos but doesn't bother me at all when I wear it. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS7WL8rdtgN6k7fg8nx4YGKOwMHTcyFEmo6Be5LW75sKdemmMKJeJ8eHCKbwEveyIaZWs9GSRR_LVhEo-pJJ9H-0GGKxH4xNCy4ic1Fpfb6e7VnoCgGz4BkjvgtahFX0arw8hF3WZbXc4p/s1600/BunchKnits3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS7WL8rdtgN6k7fg8nx4YGKOwMHTcyFEmo6Be5LW75sKdemmMKJeJ8eHCKbwEveyIaZWs9GSRR_LVhEo-pJJ9H-0GGKxH4xNCy4ic1Fpfb6e7VnoCgGz4BkjvgtahFX0arw8hF3WZbXc4p/s1600/BunchKnits3.jpg" /></a></div>
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On the second printed version, I did a better job on the neck band. I also cut the neckline about 3/8" deeper. I like the way the neckline sits on the second version better. Version number two is another Nicole Miller knit from Joann's. Man, I've bought a lot of fabric from Joann's lately. It's all I've got where I live. Both are great tops and I have worn them both constantly since I made them. On both versions, I switched the print direction on the bottom half of the top- just because.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivpBJTxnkGPJcKkcoSh7EgMwzPzJfRpElmeZja4txhICB0taQTat7vus_Uc9Xg5k9s67gYHagu0o5ATBBV51dOv4YyWD7Zmo7iv404FEKXjKT1R9qtqqbx-hEITY5rGgPdT8Ilt5lq4u_0/s1600/BunchKnits2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivpBJTxnkGPJcKkcoSh7EgMwzPzJfRpElmeZja4txhICB0taQTat7vus_Uc9Xg5k9s67gYHagu0o5ATBBV51dOv4YyWD7Zmo7iv404FEKXjKT1R9qtqqbx-hEITY5rGgPdT8Ilt5lq4u_0/s1600/BunchKnits2.jpg" /></a></div>
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Next I made this long swingy vest thingy from a drape-y cardigan pattern, <a href="https://mccallpattern.mccall.com/m6844">McCalls 6844</a>. I used a drab green bamboo knit from fabric.com. I love those bamboo knits- so soft and such great drape. I know this particular McCalls pattern has been a very popular. I picked this pattern up at a recent pattern sale strictly with the intention of making a vest like this. I wanted something long and swishy I could wear over long sleeve tops and dresses. I had something specific in mind when I made this but I'm not sure I hit the mark just right. I added about ten (?) inches or so to view A, split between two of lenthen/shorten lines on the pattern. The pattern variations all include sleeves but I figured it would be an easy alteration to just bind the armholes and make it a vest. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCm2WgzDsV-V2PVCGHd7DbQ-wooT_YQON80xQnCuhQpMhQY4IHJw3Ytvw98Wa3DGeRFipc_Ty_CdO1j3QT0mkyxYuRzMLvRY5X70xQZjsviBcbFGzAHQf8zadO9qaeDEFJQ-CrcCVaMXeW/s1600/BunchKnits4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCm2WgzDsV-V2PVCGHd7DbQ-wooT_YQON80xQnCuhQpMhQY4IHJw3Ytvw98Wa3DGeRFipc_Ty_CdO1j3QT0mkyxYuRzMLvRY5X70xQZjsviBcbFGzAHQf8zadO9qaeDEFJQ-CrcCVaMXeW/s1600/BunchKnits4.jpg" /></a></div>
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Well, it didn't exactly work out that way. My armholes are much deeper than the original pattern. I did a binding first and hated the way it drooped and stuck out. Instead of unpicking, I just cut off the binding and sewed bands instead. I figured a deep armhole wouldn't matter on a vest anyway. All in all, it's just ok. I like it but I haven't worn it out in public yet. I'm actually thinking I might wear this more when it's warmer over sleeveless things. We'll see. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipWTZjnFiYV2v-Jsq1klBn-ehzmT4Ts7U5DnwMspCqIRVGNHwwGi2qsPOpGJHGYe-Sw7t5C9fvmkrvsdboLM6Ku6qetT3z8SVV3P-S2IwpIsCxHwEI_FuU17yynmnZVdRGcqa6reiJWI5_/s1600/BunchKnits5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipWTZjnFiYV2v-Jsq1klBn-ehzmT4Ts7U5DnwMspCqIRVGNHwwGi2qsPOpGJHGYe-Sw7t5C9fvmkrvsdboLM6Ku6qetT3z8SVV3P-S2IwpIsCxHwEI_FuU17yynmnZVdRGcqa6reiJWI5_/s1600/BunchKnits5.jpg" /></a></div>
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And last but not least, a swingy trapeze dress. I used<a href="http://www.simplicity.com/new-look-pattern-6469-misses-easy-knit-dress-with-length-and-sleeve-variations/N6469.html#sz=30&start=34"> New Look 6469</a>. The pattern has a raglan sleeve, a high neckline and tons of tent-y swish. I wasn't sure I was going to like a dress like this but figured I'd try it on a whim. I bought the pattern and the fabric at the same time (Joann's again, ha!).</div>
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Why I chose a stripe, I have no idea. I really tried to match up those stripes at the raglan seams. If you notice, the stripe right at the bottom of the armhole matches (where the notch was), but that's it. I should have matched a stripe higher up. Both sides look similarly mismatched, so I left it. And I didn't have any more fabric anyway. I actually had to piece the neck band. My side seams match beautifully, however. I sewed a size S, which was crazy. I was feeling adventurous with my weight loss. It fits because it's so swing-y, but it's definitely tight through the shoulder. The knit I used is pretty tough and beefy, though, so it works. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9UUF9-HxbvEDQt-OH3KKaAp8bkvY7L71lWZaUBQE3bPHnY0tMUPGZluJiiKINV4OunA0dvzCQaX7-2pRCzH7HR-YyYyOwDi9PSN-X0uUt3zj0F8fMMbs5315PsKzam1W1_NifE12r9r9d/s1600/BunchKnits7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9UUF9-HxbvEDQt-OH3KKaAp8bkvY7L71lWZaUBQE3bPHnY0tMUPGZluJiiKINV4OunA0dvzCQaX7-2pRCzH7HR-YyYyOwDi9PSN-X0uUt3zj0F8fMMbs5315PsKzam1W1_NifE12r9r9d/s1600/BunchKnits7.jpg" /></a></div>
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There are darts at the top of shoulder. I know those darts don't fit my shoulders but you can't tell because of the way the knit stretches. Are those darts supposed to go to the end of your shoulders? Just curious. I cut the neckline just a tiny bit deeper so I didn't have to do a button and loop closure at the back of the neck- per the pattern. That also eliminated the need for a center back seam so I cut the back on the fold. I made the sleeves as long as I could with the fabric I had.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbNX7vhemUCBlKnvyKc1Q259hHnqcnuWrBope53YKg9t49lppIcQNfjSnWjpcerxldtT1_3TDel70eDy8qH1b-zoXyI5dEcMusLxYToeA59_es_tX7YubIQYZbpjBULgql7vscZz6RijNJ/s1600/BunchKNits8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbNX7vhemUCBlKnvyKc1Q259hHnqcnuWrBope53YKg9t49lppIcQNfjSnWjpcerxldtT1_3TDel70eDy8qH1b-zoXyI5dEcMusLxYToeA59_es_tX7YubIQYZbpjBULgql7vscZz6RijNJ/s1600/BunchKNits8.jpg" /></a></div>
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I'm very pleased with how this dress turned out. I've worn it tons already. I had no idea I'd like this silhouette so much. I've already made another dress from this pattern.</div>
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Alright, you made it to the end! That was quite a bit of stuff in one post. I think I'm burning out on blogging a little bit. I've been sewing a lot lately but I haven't been able to bring myself to blog like I used to. I'm hoping it's just a phase. I really enjoy sewing blogs and the community that goes along with it. Plus I think it's so useful to see your work in pictures and write about it. I feel like it makes me a better sewist. Time to reflect and critique. Anyway, I'm blathering. Until next time!</div>
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liza janehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16916364137307894200noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6560246728115023530.post-66819520897880463232017-01-15T23:42:00.001-05:002017-01-15T23:42:30.700-05:00Two Shirt Dresses<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCxGx1zlDU47ft-_LwAdsfoF7PUwUNyO5cKd8f7Egkh-K22TqVZ3fC7EBB8AuURdNfu1-mRudjOG4vtYOdvY5a2Chfn1RMwukj0fgVlHXW_rzlSL4xOx__rBuva168MShoL7KOVYFN36wB/s1600/2Shirtdresses5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCxGx1zlDU47ft-_LwAdsfoF7PUwUNyO5cKd8f7Egkh-K22TqVZ3fC7EBB8AuURdNfu1-mRudjOG4vtYOdvY5a2Chfn1RMwukj0fgVlHXW_rzlSL4xOx__rBuva168MShoL7KOVYFN36wB/s1600/2Shirtdresses5.jpg" /></a></div>
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Both of these shirt dresses were made a long time ago. Approximately six months or so ago in the summer. These were the last two big projects I was working on before I got really sick with all my gall bladder nonsense in August. I finished the multi-colored one back in July and hung it up in the closet. It's never been worn. The black and white shirt dress was finally finished a couple of weeks ago after sewing on and ripping off three different sets of sleeves/sleeve bindings. I would have given up on it except I really loved the fabric. And I did a pretty darn good job on that collar, if I do say so myself ;) I also had already sewn a really nice, deep 3 inch hem.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYVniWwVfYFxbGQh43OPcqTBAzYhwOh_whohMN95XPKR7gac0vY4yB5XWnErnz_sLqrUmaC6_qC9V2Q-rS776TM5tdrtgYNzIPWD2IilEphuItHZbMndUeN5q8Ai7hlN-NoJF9v7PjagY_/s1600/2Shirtdresses1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYVniWwVfYFxbGQh43OPcqTBAzYhwOh_whohMN95XPKR7gac0vY4yB5XWnErnz_sLqrUmaC6_qC9V2Q-rS776TM5tdrtgYNzIPWD2IilEphuItHZbMndUeN5q8Ai7hlN-NoJF9v7PjagY_/s1600/2Shirtdresses1.jpg" /></a></div>
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The black and white shirt dress is <a href="https://mccallpattern.mccall.com/m7314">McCalls 7314.</a> It is a pretty standard shirtwaist dress except it has a curved, raised waist seam. The pattern calls for elastic in the back of the waist seam. I did initially add the elastic but it made the dress look extremely maternity like. In fact, this dress would be a really awesome maternity dress pattern. I tried adding the elastic around the whole waist seam as well, but didn't like that either. So I left the elastic off and was kind of digging the loose, Japanese sort of vibe I was getting.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpVJxXWOaAs5datKvf-HfqnqTiKi58KQEio7ExbyvKnXdecUdY-TzbTHmuSowEuN13KTvgCdULpCGp5n9jHNWytrHpFMJVXgv1HfoONI2q2kXiLAkioZ80IShjHxsQBmmcjBik71juYuB8/s1600/M7314.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="335" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpVJxXWOaAs5datKvf-HfqnqTiKi58KQEio7ExbyvKnXdecUdY-TzbTHmuSowEuN13KTvgCdULpCGp5n9jHNWytrHpFMJVXgv1HfoONI2q2kXiLAkioZ80IShjHxsQBmmcjBik71juYuB8/s400/M7314.gif" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDbqao_J21bJpeZp2Utb0q3utR5TUCBFAM5bi_wZ1aAJhPYPCcDpePvynhg33C2aNf3xR7aJ1rX_R719KThcf8XudqC2mCP4XNTTAUgkJV4qTKzXiWEeCcBxE2L9o1897biHV5UqiWFIBY/s1600/2Shirtdresses4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDbqao_J21bJpeZp2Utb0q3utR5TUCBFAM5bi_wZ1aAJhPYPCcDpePvynhg33C2aNf3xR7aJ1rX_R719KThcf8XudqC2mCP4XNTTAUgkJV4qTKzXiWEeCcBxE2L9o1897biHV5UqiWFIBY/s1600/2Shirtdresses4.jpg" /></a></div>
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I originally made this dress sleeveless. But after finishing it, I couldn't get the idea of a long sleeved shirt dress to wear with tights and boots out of my head. So I ripped out the sleeve bindings and added the long sleeves from the pattern. I did not like them. If I remember correctly, I then shortened the sleeves to be 3/4 length but didn't widen the cuff. So I ended up with a really tight and uncomfortable shorter sleeve. Then it sat on my dress form for a few months. A few weeks ago, I ripped out the second set of sleeves and added the big, blouse-y sleeves from <a href="https://mccallpattern.mccall.com/m7242">McCalls 7242</a>. I had just worn <a href="http://lizajanesews.blogspot.com/2016/05/finally-finished-object.html">my maxi shirt dress</a> (which I am loving now, by the way) and thought the sleeves would be perfect. I didn't do any measuring or anything to make sure it would work. It was just a last ditch effort to try and save the dress. So the armscye fit on this dress is pretty crappy. Not only is the armscye all stretched out from ripping things out, but that sleeve head was not made to fit in to that armscye. I made it work (hopefully?), but just barely. Luckily the dress has so much ease that I didn't need a close fitting armscye anyway. I also have lost a little under twenty pounds from when I originally made this dress. It was already loose to begin with but is maybe even a little more so now. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiStu_GY3-CsNzfeJF_mroMMtqdKN-mRKuJNg_da0yRRL_rsBdD8AyfJiHSoVO3gvGiL1Ygckx4dd-2g3FF52TDK3dJVzdcKRroxiajsL8sUQS08BbRDmlWJJrg9LIv7NiU_D3q6sV10tUs/s1600/2Shirtdresses2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiStu_GY3-CsNzfeJF_mroMMtqdKN-mRKuJNg_da0yRRL_rsBdD8AyfJiHSoVO3gvGiL1Ygckx4dd-2g3FF52TDK3dJVzdcKRroxiajsL8sUQS08BbRDmlWJJrg9LIv7NiU_D3q6sV10tUs/s1600/2Shirtdresses2.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2KGM02E0gqglPEs2vxVHfmtkCVDCM6ujWvpwMjwC8By0l6220lLa6QCGF0Rn0lhtw9iwLRb65PxDQ7pJjV_YAVRS0v8l0GnltSoVr_wivBfCzSZHws_U3YHE-vtl2uVG6cPzOU99MmzpZ/s1600/2Shirtdresses3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2KGM02E0gqglPEs2vxVHfmtkCVDCM6ujWvpwMjwC8By0l6220lLa6QCGF0Rn0lhtw9iwLRb65PxDQ7pJjV_YAVRS0v8l0GnltSoVr_wivBfCzSZHws_U3YHE-vtl2uVG6cPzOU99MmzpZ/s1600/2Shirtdresses3.jpg" /></a></div>
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I don't love the end result, but I do like it. I feel like it's a good teacher dress. The fabric is fantastic. It's a rayon poplin I bought from fabric.com. It has the drape of rayon challis but has a tighter weave, so it seems more durable and is less see-through. The crazy multi-colored fabric in my second shirt dress is also rayon poplin. I bought several yards of some different prints at the same time.</div>
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The second shirt dress I made back in July is <a href="https://mccallpattern.mccall.com/m7387">McCalls 7387</a>. I really liked this dress when I first made it but after putting it on for pictures now, I'm not so sure. It's a funky pattern, which I like. It is a very boxy shirt dress with a big pleat in the back and no waist shaping at all. It has a covered button placket as well. I spent an extremely long time cutting this out to match up stripes. I also print mixed with some of the black and white spots from the other shirt dress on the placket and sleeve cuffs. I'm pretty chuffed with my pattern placement. The fit is off, though.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPUEZe4Nyy8NMflacRP0UNpGWBa3SZ2lblSxpUk9w-AEX4QetgUB_emshzD0pDmcPW2bQMW8cfYn3cRV4w82-0QWkUdsf8xTiOVwyTFPIzGxXGNMzkWhkjRtHwc30tsmzNhcKa1nAtxpeA/s1600/2Shirtdresses6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPUEZe4Nyy8NMflacRP0UNpGWBa3SZ2lblSxpUk9w-AEX4QetgUB_emshzD0pDmcPW2bQMW8cfYn3cRV4w82-0QWkUdsf8xTiOVwyTFPIzGxXGNMzkWhkjRtHwc30tsmzNhcKa1nAtxpeA/s1600/2Shirtdresses6.jpg" /></a></div>
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I did square the shoulder ahead of time. And I'm not quite sure I did it right on a shoulder/sleeve like this. I need to read up on it, I guess. I still have some pulling from shoulder to the first button, which is what I'm trying to show in this awkward photo below. Also, the covered button placket-- ugh. I'm glad I did it because it was a good learning experience. But it was a pain. I've never done one before. Not only that, but I couldn't make a button hole high enough on the placket because of where the covered part of the placket begins. I had to scoot the first button hole down and it's too low. I actually have it safety pinned in these photos and I'm planning to add a snap there. I wouldn't do the covered button placket again. I don't care enough about the look of it and my skills are lacking.</div>
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I like the overall shape of the dress and I love the unusual back pleat. But, the back pleat is heavy and pulls on the back of the yoke. The hem line is also dipped lower in the back, I'm guessing because of the pleat. I don't mind it, but it's probably not how it's supposed to look. I'm seriously thinking about chopping off four or five inches from the hem and turning this in to tunic to wear over leggings or skinny jeans. I think it has too many fit issues for me to ever wear it comfortably as a dress. We'll see, though. Maybe I'll let it sit in the magic closet for a little while.</div>
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Phew! Glad I blogged these two dresses. Now onwards and upwards...</div>
<br />liza janehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16916364137307894200noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6560246728115023530.post-17115509893540123202016-11-02T22:02:00.000-04:002016-11-02T22:02:00.114-04:00A Ninja Turtle And A Bum Gallbladder<div style="text-align: center;">
Well hello there! Long time no see, er... you know what I mean. I'm alive. For the most part. I didn't mean to disappear for so long because I very much enjoy interacting in this space. But life has been interesting lately. I actually have been sick. My gallbladder! Having a bum gallbladder has been pretty life altering. I got really sick at the end of July and then missed the entire first month of school while being sick and having all sorts of inconclusive tests done. Don't you love it when doctors tell you there is nothing wrong with you when there very obviously is? Twenty-two pound weight loss later, I made an appointment with a surgeon and had my gallbladder out. I have been recovering ever since (doing much better now). It was no fun. I also have completely changed my diet. I'm eating very carefully and avoiding all sorts of things at the moment. Which means I have learned to cook. And I am cooking all the time. <i>All the time</i>. It doesn't leave much time for sewing, this making-dinner-from-scratch thing. I miss it. Anyway, I'm figuring out how to balance it all. I recently sat down at my sewing machine after a three month long hiatus and I made this:</div>
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Who is this girl? This is Jane. She's definitely not Baby Jane anymore. She has somehow morphed in to this tall, long-legged little girl who love ninja turtles. She is such a nut. She wanted to be a ninja turtle for Halloween. The orange ninja turtle, to be specific. I could have bought a costume this year but I'm so glad I didn't. This is my Halloween tradition. I wish I could explain how I made this little vest/hoodie thing but I made it up as I went along. I used fleece again. I think I've used fleece for <a href="http://lizajanesews.blogspot.com/search/label/handmade%20Halloween">all of her Halloween costumes so far</a>. Its so easy to sew a costume with. Hides mistakes well. I used the same <a href="https://mccallpattern.mccall.com/m6782?page_id=487">McCalls hoodie pattern</a> that I used last year for her <a href="http://lizajanesews.blogspot.com/2015/10/rooooooaaarr.html">dinosaur costume</a>. I had already cut the pattern but had another pattern piece where I could see the size differences. I cut the longest length (a size 5, I think) and added a little bit of width to the body (which previously was a size 2). I didn't change the shoulders at all since her dinosaur hoodie still seems to fit her. I could have used a bit more width in the body but I think that's because of the shell on the back.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgje6dQD03E6o2YWgWQTCkC62N-gATqCJu-46_4a7GQ7QOgceSmCxNy4RTU9VkjrGLCvN4J2F_4ikqrUDKsjMhqbd47DtJD7eNf-lF-2w6EeOnxvD00KL3ecdUKvKIy5Qwb6YjUVt1lHNPg/s1600/Mikey6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgje6dQD03E6o2YWgWQTCkC62N-gATqCJu-46_4a7GQ7QOgceSmCxNy4RTU9VkjrGLCvN4J2F_4ikqrUDKsjMhqbd47DtJD7eNf-lF-2w6EeOnxvD00KL3ecdUKvKIy5Qwb6YjUVt1lHNPg/s1600/Mikey6.jpg" /></a></div>
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The order of construction is what I made up as I went along. The shell mainly. I cut two oval-ish shapes for the shell, stitching hexagon-ish shapes on the top piece. I sewed darts at each 'corner' of the top shell piece to give it more shape. I sewed the bottom oval to the back hoodie piece first. I stitched it on as a big oval in the middle. Then, I sewed the front pieces of the hoodie to the back. Then I sewed the top of the turtle shell to the bottom shell, pinning the hoodie inside. I left a hole and flipped the whole thing inside out through the hole. I probably didn't explain that very well but like I said, I was making it up as I went along. There was a belt in there somewhere, too. I was pumped it all worked, especially since I was so rusty on the sewing machine. There is some seriously shoddy sewing on this costume, so don't look too closely. I lined the whole thing with some thin knit in my stash and added the drawstring to the hoodie.</div>
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The shell is stuffed with polyfill. It kind reminds me of a backpack. I should have made it a backpack! Ah well. Jane was insistent on having me make the orange mask, but then refused to wear it on Halloween. She wore the hoodie and carried the pizza slice. The pizza was a last minute idea/addition. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS4XtFXntDaVPuX_DgKq7PxGbKfsbTPi-1T-3F8s5TEKuXriLCtM_-j3P6nFOVR64UivEtAHkHqYqgpUAvuZoDMLTH7-0XDyP8v6ZVTCoU9MVEigSvc8i1h73Mql-bD9dG-yPXi60smstW/s1600/Mikey3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS4XtFXntDaVPuX_DgKq7PxGbKfsbTPi-1T-3F8s5TEKuXriLCtM_-j3P6nFOVR64UivEtAHkHqYqgpUAvuZoDMLTH7-0XDyP8v6ZVTCoU9MVEigSvc8i1h73Mql-bD9dG-yPXi60smstW/s1600/Mikey3.jpg" /></a></div>
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She has some great girly ninja poses, doesn't she? She is so funny. I can't tell you how entertaining it is to have a three year old. I'm pretty sure she loved her costume and we had a blast trick or treating the the other night.</div>
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Hope everyone is doing well! Life seems to be returning to normal but I'm probably going to be absent from this space for a while longer. At least until I get the hang of this cooking thing. Ugh, meal planning... </div>
liza janehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16916364137307894200noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6560246728115023530.post-12790987930566693272016-07-02T11:58:00.000-04:002016-07-02T11:58:33.522-04:00Faux Jumpsuit<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0K8jxATkAM6tY33fXGArpbspO_jI5vYgnTlTdOEEmZiYb2E4xzc-nAMBbfLqMp88NcByDz45wx4TuK3BnAiF7KOwUKcTNlj53lhPZ5LphwrNd_wMZz6RBJdEQg9xq_fBW58_2DKyGR064/s1600/Jumpsuit5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0K8jxATkAM6tY33fXGArpbspO_jI5vYgnTlTdOEEmZiYb2E4xzc-nAMBbfLqMp88NcByDz45wx4TuK3BnAiF7KOwUKcTNlj53lhPZ5LphwrNd_wMZz6RBJdEQg9xq_fBW58_2DKyGR064/s1600/Jumpsuit5.jpg" /></a></div>
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Jumpsuit! Who would have thought I would make a jumpsuit? Not me. I have to admit that I wasn't sold on the trend last summer. But I've seen so many awesome jumpsuits out there in sewing blog land now that I've been convinced. However, the bathroom issue was a big hurdle for me. I think I would be ok with the whole having to undress to use the restroom every once in a while. But that would definitely stop me from wearing it on a regular basis. I wanted something wearable for the summer. Enter the faux jumpsuit! This jumpsuit is actually two pieces- a top and wide leg pants. </div>
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I've had <a href="http://www.simplicity.com/simplicity-pattern-1112-misses-top-pants-or-shorts-and-skirt/1112.html">Simplicity 1112 </a>in my stash for a while. I liked the wide leg pants as part of a jumpsuit. They are basically like big pajama pants. And I like the tie belt. I think the belt makes it look more jumpsuit like. I made the pants first. I planned on making the top from the pattern as well but when I looked at it again, I changed my mind. Strapless bra. Nothing will stop me from wearing something faster than having to put on a strapless bra. I wanted a simple v-neck tank I could tuck in with some bra coverage. I searched through all my billions of patterns and came up with nada. I wasn't interested in purchasing anything new so I traced a favorite rtw top for a pattern. I was really uncertain if it would work but it was simple enough for me to try. There is a front seam and the neckline and armholes are finished with a knit facing. Nothing special but I was very pleased with how it works as a jumpsuit. The original top I traced was a woven top so there are some issues because of that. </div>
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Here is a quick pattern review of the pants.</div>
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Pattern Description: Sportswear pattern that includes pull on pants, shorts, high-low skirt all with elastic waist. Also includes a strappy top.</div>
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Pattern Sizing: Sizes 4-20. I made the pants in a size 16.</div>
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Fabric Used: I think the success of this faux jumpsuit really lies in the fabric. I used a really fabulous rayon jersey. I love the blue and black print and the weight was just perfect. It has great drape but it's not too thin. Nice stuff. It was an impulse buy from fabric.com. I did my best to keep the pattern placement balanced. Not necessarily matched but just balanced. I think I did a pretty good job on the pants but I screwed it up on the front seam of my top. It's not that noticeable, though.</div>
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Likes/Dislikes: The pants are fine. They are your basic wide leg pants with an elastic waist. Wide leg pants are pretty forgiving to sew. They are nice and long, too. I did add some length when I cut them them out but I didn't need to. I took it back off when I hemmed them. But beware of the rise! See below.</div>
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Alterations/Deviations: I held up the pattern tissue to check the length before I cut out my fabric and noticed the crazy high rise. I took a two inch tuck from the rise to shorten them. And I am long waisted! I am sure the rise is long because they are wide legs pants and the crotch seam is supposed to sit lower. But I didn't need all that length. I do think I could use just a touch more room in the seat, but that may have something to do with shortening the rise. </div>
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Conclusion: Easy little pants pattern. I made a shorts version for my faux romper (below) and I've made another shorts version for lounging around that I'm not blogging about.</div>
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I'm very happy with the faux jumpsuit. And the best part is that I can also wear the top and pants separately.</div>
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After the success of my faux jumpsuit, I decided to make a faux romper (shorts) for our upcoming beach trip. I made the same Simplicity 1112 pants pattern and v-neck top rub off. But blergh. I did not like the look of the v-neck top tucked in to the shorts. I think it would look better if the shorts were shorter but I'm not going any shorter than this. This is the shorts hem line per the pattern minus about one inch. I know it's longer for shorts but it's a length I'm comfortable with. I do like the look of the two pieces untucked. It's perfect for going to the beach and the pool. And honestly, it's great for presentable pajamas, too. </div>
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After I made the faux romper, I had enough fabric left for another top. So I decided to try the <a href="http://www.heyjunehandmade.com/product/9054/">Hey June Patterns Santa Fe top </a>that I've seen so many awesome versions of. This is just the first of many, I am sure. I must really like it because I actually bought and put together a pdf pattern. I hate pdf's with a passion, but I will put one together if it's something I really want to make.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkJQRkaKXvh1jkSz5o68jcuMiqRxYksNbB0oR_eX_Lpkwbm4dH3w7BsFVOCbIPIjOJZg7b1AfqPsFeHxS_3mcKTykb1TawIllqGRmQm0WbEX1pLgCAOMf4sQZ8awAdZYDRATVUuknrruWU/s1600/Jumpsuit8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkJQRkaKXvh1jkSz5o68jcuMiqRxYksNbB0oR_eX_Lpkwbm4dH3w7BsFVOCbIPIjOJZg7b1AfqPsFeHxS_3mcKTykb1TawIllqGRmQm0WbEX1pLgCAOMf4sQZ8awAdZYDRATVUuknrruWU/s1600/Jumpsuit8.jpg" /></a></div>
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Pattern Description: The Santa Fe top is a loose, flowy tank or dolman sleeve top. There are some interesting seam lines on some of the variations that resemble raglan sleeves. I was drawn to the relaxed shape of the dolman sleeve top and the sleeve cuffs. There are lots of options with the pattern that makes it worth the price (this comes from someone who pretty much just buys Big 4 patterns on sale).</div>
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Pattern Sizing: XS-2XL. Lot of sizes, too. I made a medium.</div>
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Fabric Used: This fabric is pretty fabulous, too. It's a shibori dyed bamboo jersey. It's so soft and drape-y. Perfect for lounge wear.</div>
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Likes/Dislikes: No dislikes on this version. I made the pattern as is except for the neckband.</div>
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Alterations/Deviations: I did a neckband instead of binding per the instructions. Mainly because I am terrible at top stitching my binding. Making a band is much faster and I don't have to stress over wobbly top stitching.</div>
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Conclusion: Nice little tee pattern. I've already made another dolman tee (with the insets) that I love. I've also made the tank but am not loving the silhouette as much as the tee with sleeves. I plan on making another, though!</div>
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liza janehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16916364137307894200noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6560246728115023530.post-85225713130973572212016-06-12T10:43:00.001-04:002016-06-12T10:43:08.295-04:00Rompin' Around<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp6OH1llG1mxB9QBOS0YDL93bvQovU23Z02_2_1jzCMenTDzwIHuowvezE7rer-XS5YgE1PgKB1EMesguGcvlFdAU0ZT0T9YCFVYgBgsYbXmpp2LkrrzxD9iUtAj8HKL1GwlpWjonuA5hk/s1600/Romper1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp6OH1llG1mxB9QBOS0YDL93bvQovU23Z02_2_1jzCMenTDzwIHuowvezE7rer-XS5YgE1PgKB1EMesguGcvlFdAU0ZT0T9YCFVYgBgsYbXmpp2LkrrzxD9iUtAj8HKL1GwlpWjonuA5hk/s1600/Romper1.jpg" /></a></div>
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I'm going to apologize in advance for the picture overload. This might be the cutest thing I've ever made. Except, of course, for the cute thing I made that's wearing it! There was a little bit of bribery involved in taking these photos, but for the most part she cooperated. She's got personality, this girl, that's for sure.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVa4xvm_LWw0u0VTfoAAjlqGsampOnGpDyZQS7Zah_Ll7bXcMHWJYxj4P0vcoaJiAuXtHgCFOTZnMep-qPm0lgk3X-zjIxOFgVvWv9np26NlsEEJ4RnDsv1EkqXc_23g8MgJuiBPSsqB6f/s1600/Romper7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVa4xvm_LWw0u0VTfoAAjlqGsampOnGpDyZQS7Zah_Ll7bXcMHWJYxj4P0vcoaJiAuXtHgCFOTZnMep-qPm0lgk3X-zjIxOFgVvWv9np26NlsEEJ4RnDsv1EkqXc_23g8MgJuiBPSsqB6f/s1600/Romper7.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdRWhp5sjabsVe9CMGOfTyAgs_gilnZbAnGRfHaBxVA6HHIStTmZF_9M9p_byZKMOvg8PE0z-xJrM7Saw5ZllqT0PSsxdHEqc2573_jSozm7yGBrhaT0l8kqJ2tbFtqIMgtxE86esCbMDC/s1600/m7376.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="262" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdRWhp5sjabsVe9CMGOfTyAgs_gilnZbAnGRfHaBxVA6HHIStTmZF_9M9p_byZKMOvg8PE0z-xJrM7Saw5ZllqT0PSsxdHEqc2573_jSozm7yGBrhaT0l8kqJ2tbFtqIMgtxE86esCbMDC/s400/m7376.gif" width="400" /></a></div>
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Pattern Description: <a href="https://mccallpattern.mccall.com/m7376">McCalls 7376.</a> Girls' blouson romper and jumpsuit pattern. There are strap and length variations and some cutesy little trim details. I made view C with the single ruffle and elasticized, below-the-knee legs. Is this not the sweetest little pattern? I was buying other McCalls patterns at the latest pattern sale and saw this one from their early summer release. It moved to the top of the queue and I made it right away. It's just so adorable.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKnqnzruDkmdX7SjdIq2wMgw1B4PADjNWXUmyCh4leYwj9wWp4a6W-iCCqyrokgeA4wgUeePlOynpUTHIyGwuFg1EjQV3dXzU43HWtljbkozAlkdFc65VSLEVnBEQvYfib_ApRhddKRgBR/s1600/Romper6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKnqnzruDkmdX7SjdIq2wMgw1B4PADjNWXUmyCh4leYwj9wWp4a6W-iCCqyrokgeA4wgUeePlOynpUTHIyGwuFg1EjQV3dXzU43HWtljbkozAlkdFc65VSLEVnBEQvYfib_ApRhddKRgBR/s1600/Romper6.jpg" /></a></div>
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Pattern Sizing: Children's sizes 2-8. I made a size 4. Jane is three years old but she wears a 4T in rtw. She's tall for her age, too.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPIGmZNyF_z3O2D2KkVcWQDXxyBTRThO4Sw32CQtheFAqMoDhSLviGtRjs-drQEKvhn-rfKRZlJmEvjD4HxGxuqHQ4kCAPqmjLiODBPVC29gyHNUDhrHD6G_P3YHdr1p9F8kDGet8mUYTv/s1600/Romper2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPIGmZNyF_z3O2D2KkVcWQDXxyBTRThO4Sw32CQtheFAqMoDhSLviGtRjs-drQEKvhn-rfKRZlJmEvjD4HxGxuqHQ4kCAPqmjLiODBPVC29gyHNUDhrHD6G_P3YHdr1p9F8kDGet8mUYTv/s1600/Romper2.jpg" /></a></div>
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Fabric Used: Rayon poplin. When I made <a href="http://lizajanesews.blogspot.com/2016/05/finally-finished-object.html">my recent maxi dress,</a> I also bought a yard and half of this same Cotton and Steel rayon poplin in this color way. When I ordered it, I though the navy would be the same and I could use this one with the teal diamonds for contrast. The navy is not the same, however. This particular blue is much more of a denim blue. I also figured I would have some of the original rayon left over and I could always make another garment with the two. Well, I used every scrap to make that maxi dress and then stuck this small piece in stash. It was perfect for this romper. So Jane's romper is made of some pretty swanky fabric.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_iWovaHiKf_fe0_T3WBxiKvMfCFTU7MBl5e1kWl9xsQjOABqUX_9Ab5puI1PWAlpXqdBc-ySzeUTu89etrx5JTq8TriDMkak5JoqExiPrIGcdpXhWsfj_0XecQfY7J1DGBhbX3TbSb0uB/s1600/Romper5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_iWovaHiKf_fe0_T3WBxiKvMfCFTU7MBl5e1kWl9xsQjOABqUX_9Ab5puI1PWAlpXqdBc-ySzeUTu89etrx5JTq8TriDMkak5JoqExiPrIGcdpXhWsfj_0XecQfY7J1DGBhbX3TbSb0uB/s1600/Romper5.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2BSUMeRDugWOOqeV_CaPhDI0bt-Kqwo4pcVEwZOusDqJrZSLDEedK0hNVAPdXfL3CcjnC9r_VLWJXgMkL2s3uwzdNAJoC-EyPp-6UlpwOAtzfxbYDxneT0QEuRoz68egxWSdFQ9sMGaj7/s1600/Romper3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2BSUMeRDugWOOqeV_CaPhDI0bt-Kqwo4pcVEwZOusDqJrZSLDEedK0hNVAPdXfL3CcjnC9r_VLWJXgMkL2s3uwzdNAJoC-EyPp-6UlpwOAtzfxbYDxneT0QEuRoz68egxWSdFQ9sMGaj7/s1600/Romper3.jpg" /></a></div>
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I do wish the camera had focused on her instead of the background. I was lazy and took all these on an automatic setting. But this photo. I love it.</div>
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Alterations/Deviations: While being a super cute pattern, it was very fiddly to sew. There was lots of trying on to measure elastic and placing straps. The elastic guide for the casing at the chest was way, way too long. I pulled that piece of elastic pretty tight to hold up the romper. The waist casing didn't have an elastic guide. I left that piece of elastic pretty loose for comfort. The elastic in the leg casings are loose, too, which is why you see them riding up above her knee in photos. It's cute either way. I also had to give her some more room in the crotch after the fact. It fit when I was done, but when she moved around it definitely rode up and looked a little uncomfortable. I unpicked the waist seam and sewed the crotch seam about 3/8" lower. And I then I sewed the waist seam back on with a smaller seam allowance (using a smaller width of elastic) to give even more room- probably another 3/8" inch. So I gave her more room in the crotch by lowering everything almost 3/4" inch. Just something to pay attention to if you are sewing this pattern. But she is tall.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhErKjpTtwy2awvC7AqzyJ6Myfo1u93TPbGTb1JVKc-nYu_dJ_DnyZJ-q858DSeF-FkKiXEEFBfIKdJIHOdeXeos6JZfb3uuF6J7pCXzyFcY0QVLIaPaOJ0pdu9SgGAeMgFNqr9Qkp3sm5b/s1600/Romper4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhErKjpTtwy2awvC7AqzyJ6Myfo1u93TPbGTb1JVKc-nYu_dJ_DnyZJ-q858DSeF-FkKiXEEFBfIKdJIHOdeXeos6JZfb3uuF6J7pCXzyFcY0QVLIaPaOJ0pdu9SgGAeMgFNqr9Qkp3sm5b/s1600/Romper4.jpg" /></a></div>
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Likes/Dislikes: I mean, again- how stinkin' cute is finished product. I can't help but love it. But I do have to complain a little about the instructions. They were confusing. All the instructions for the different views are written together. I had to use a highlighter to mark which parts were for my view. I did follow the instructions closely since I wasn't sure about the order of construction. And it all worked out. Except in the end, there was never a proper explanation of how to attach the front straps for view C. The instructions and illustrations didn't take in to account the ruffle. I worked it out but I can see that this would be frustrating for someone who was new to sewing, since this is a "Learn to Sew" pattern. I flipped the ruffle up and sewed along the<i> top </i>of casing to attach the front of the straps in case you are wondering. I also need to tighten up that one strap a little. It keeps slipping off her shoulder. If I made this again, I'd just use the straps that tie. They would be much easier to sew in and would also be adjustable after the fact.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPWCSg7nBxzYmzbYeoyVdLzF_uBpW7eZPLdc1mv-MjSRzf2tq5QiqsIJ3U3Rm2JQnRyl9X90nvZ64zLhjNd0M6wWe01zRvd-w8NDuAGvGbQ1wB03nefa8J_1hK-fmSEiwcHKvoLF9a5M9E/s1600/Romper9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPWCSg7nBxzYmzbYeoyVdLzF_uBpW7eZPLdc1mv-MjSRzf2tq5QiqsIJ3U3Rm2JQnRyl9X90nvZ64zLhjNd0M6wWe01zRvd-w8NDuAGvGbQ1wB03nefa8J_1hK-fmSEiwcHKvoLF9a5M9E/s1600/Romper9.jpg" /></a></div>
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This is when I told her to "strike a pose." Lol.</div>
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Conclusion: I love the end result. Jane loves it, too. She wore it straight off the sewing machine. She says it's comfy. I know we'll get lots of use from it this summer.</div>
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<br />liza janehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16916364137307894200noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6560246728115023530.post-26253351824519804042016-06-03T19:16:00.001-04:002016-06-03T19:16:58.676-04:00Four *New Tops<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2Zeb5iIdWZH7qyqZmkAyhORGIDq7xW4HwSBTIp-Sl8Iah-7dkcT_0orzx38LrAcj85do_T2BCbXTXdgn4d5COK_QRHvvAghkv9y0uM69k1-jKidOykNH7WryyXl7S2bvnD02vgBZiSGQC/s1600/FourTops1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2Zeb5iIdWZH7qyqZmkAyhORGIDq7xW4HwSBTIp-Sl8Iah-7dkcT_0orzx38LrAcj85do_T2BCbXTXdgn4d5COK_QRHvvAghkv9y0uM69k1-jKidOykNH7WryyXl7S2bvnD02vgBZiSGQC/s1600/FourTops1.jpg" /></a></div>
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*Only two of them are actually new makes. The other two are previously sewn tops with a few changes. I'm collecting them all in one blog post simply because they are the last four things to come off my sewing machine and I took pictures of them the other day. I actually worked on all of them at the same time and then finished them all in one weekend. Nothing makes you feel more accomplished than finishing four things in one weekend!</div>
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Anyway, the first top is my <a href="http://lizajanesews.blogspot.com/2016/04/more-shirts.html">grey floral Burdastyle shirt that I recently blogged about here</a>. I went back to the fabric store and bought another yard of this rayon to do 3/4 length sleeves like my other version. And I like it so much better. I was able to wear it once on a cool day a week or so ago, but this top will go in the closet until fall. Too hot for longer sleeves already. I painstakingly unpicked the armhole seams- stitched twice and then serged! I'm always so thorough on seams I need to undo. Looks better with longer sleeves, doesn't it? I think it does. I get a more billowy, bohemian vibe instead of a granny chic vibe with the shorter sleeves.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiR7FM7aFZl3ARuoWjRNvWCxS6iWQ5qDdWYaE0cIfePMA7OCuGEDwS9cVa0GBnabYfuEiD6fushpL9_ylNjLYhGIIHcqrMLY4ZAFcZQ1L4Z8vgUM8R0udYi7mCaalR2svt84mAH5ctidV0/s1600/FourTops2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiR7FM7aFZl3ARuoWjRNvWCxS6iWQ5qDdWYaE0cIfePMA7OCuGEDwS9cVa0GBnabYfuEiD6fushpL9_ylNjLYhGIIHcqrMLY4ZAFcZQ1L4Z8vgUM8R0udYi7mCaalR2svt84mAH5ctidV0/s1600/FourTops2.jpg" /></a></div>
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My next alteration was to this rayon challis and linen <a href="http://lizajanesews.blogspot.com/2015/06/mccalls-7095-x-3.html">McCalls 7095 top I made last summer. </a> I never wore it. Not once. The elastic waist was too bulky. I think there was just too much volume gathered in to the elastic waist. So I unpicked the channel the elastic was sewn in to- again, painstakingly, because it was several rows of stitching. And then I chopped it shorter and hemmed it. Unfortunately, I hemmed it too short the first time around. So I then unpicked the hem and sewed a strip of fabric on the bottom to make it longer. Can you tell I'm missing a stripe in there? It was definitely a dedicated remake. But I am so glad I persevered and fixed it because I have worn this top multiple times already. It will be a staple this summer.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0You9WX8_1gXsKjA9q-9ADucb_3vMHjl1pu8IiMYHQMjzAPpXEg-MWF7Wb3l9cF5goXx9-N6mA69dMLwipF1BGhEThyyyhJ_aSIxNmTxdoJDQzQuHMOVUmEhOp02zylXGExn8HC0ktYUE/s1600/FourTops3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0You9WX8_1gXsKjA9q-9ADucb_3vMHjl1pu8IiMYHQMjzAPpXEg-MWF7Wb3l9cF5goXx9-N6mA69dMLwipF1BGhEThyyyhJ_aSIxNmTxdoJDQzQuHMOVUmEhOp02zylXGExn8HC0ktYUE/s1600/FourTops3.jpg" /></a></div>
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The next top is a new make. I made this as a wearable muslin. I bought McCalls 7361 without any real intention of making it right away, but then I noticed the striped version on the pattern envelope. I had this super cheap rayon challis in stash that I figured would be perfect. It was not fun to cut, however. I starched the hell out of it to keep the stripe as straight as possible. I think I did an ok job. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7teJyJKuBfJT2jPeHTSmnaCI_aEij_YjBe-KyKjmJ3ty4k137QzKoAztUyZIo0Vk5aTvaGtJdHs7CAGrIH2aywAGXFdr69tSrqADlrTeCAP_Q4hLcLQjqLDzjm_pHqFfA7BT2_y9Qpxp9/s1600/M7361.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7teJyJKuBfJT2jPeHTSmnaCI_aEij_YjBe-KyKjmJ3ty4k137QzKoAztUyZIo0Vk5aTvaGtJdHs7CAGrIH2aywAGXFdr69tSrqADlrTeCAP_Q4hLcLQjqLDzjm_pHqFfA7BT2_y9Qpxp9/s400/M7361.gif" width="285" /></a></div>
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Pattern Description: <a href="https://mccallpattern.mccall.com/m7361">McCalls 7361</a>, a loose fitting, pullover top with neck and hemline variations. There is some very interesting seaming in this pattern. I made view D, the striped version, but with the v-neck. The sleeves are cut on the bias. </div>
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Pattern Sizing: 6-22. I cut a 12 to try and reduce some of the width even though I normally cut a 14.</div>
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Fabric Used: Rayon challis.</div>
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Alterations/Deviations: The finished top was so, so short. In an attempt to save it, I added a strip of fabric to hem. I actually kind of like the added band around the hem. We'll just pretend it was a design feature. So pay attention to the length if you are making this. I also had to straighten the shoulder seam after the fact. I should just do a square shoulder adjustment all the time now, no questions asked. I straightened the shoulder seam from shoulder point to neckline. I probably took a 3/4" wedge out. Not the proper way to do it but it helped. I'll do a proper square shoulder adjustment next time around.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5SZWlt0HsWBVIwEtSnJGRMV6glDvMaImRHIX_nQmWq9DSHr6aH4ZlvfPFhdAgcFhpRn8YrG9rri6CxNd5QvIrUGoT1YNwu08tQSNHXQ1-riOoWlzAuLBGeN0wnSNHXtOzBFwEmjpBYS-p/s1600/FourTops5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5SZWlt0HsWBVIwEtSnJGRMV6glDvMaImRHIX_nQmWq9DSHr6aH4ZlvfPFhdAgcFhpRn8YrG9rri6CxNd5QvIrUGoT1YNwu08tQSNHXQ1-riOoWlzAuLBGeN0wnSNHXtOzBFwEmjpBYS-p/s1600/FourTops5.jpg" /></a></div>
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Likes/Dislikes: I like the shape. I like all the interesting seaming with the stripe. I do not like how low the armholes are. You can see straight to my bra. I'll wear a camisole under this one but maybe I'll try and raise the armholes a bit next time. Can you do that with a cut on sleeve? I figure I'll just redraw that underarm curve up a little higher.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtXy0DGc2nWKBlSwk3wr6veZR28KXNbTkOK9VUVXHeYt15n9-YL8VmwCaCZq_rfxov8hnJmD6F7OfHoPaTe17i_dD0RkqzJoC7R2yqssnOZMyFohl9M_h0p_S6A1U4UyNMBxgBkGfOAaFr/s1600/FourTops4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtXy0DGc2nWKBlSwk3wr6veZR28KXNbTkOK9VUVXHeYt15n9-YL8VmwCaCZq_rfxov8hnJmD6F7OfHoPaTe17i_dD0RkqzJoC7R2yqssnOZMyFohl9M_h0p_S6A1U4UyNMBxgBkGfOAaFr/s1600/FourTops4.jpg" /></a></div>
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Conclusion: It's funky little top pattern. I would like to make it again with all the changes I listed above. I'm even kind of interested in the pleated side panels.</div>
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The last top was super quick and is probably my favorite of the bunch.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4HUGpMJp8bSmgOFJiN9haRauB6Pj4_JcvFdV31pZxCiJzj03XQfBz0ayOISqpU1YUvAdtEXGU9nzxvsL7jTo4ao9_QQuWYftGZKufuDj_ECCL_ujiyGbam3WmDxv6D7LhcF6atiHr9Uyl/s1600/K3891.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4HUGpMJp8bSmgOFJiN9haRauB6Pj4_JcvFdV31pZxCiJzj03XQfBz0ayOISqpU1YUvAdtEXGU9nzxvsL7jTo4ao9_QQuWYftGZKufuDj_ECCL_ujiyGbam3WmDxv6D7LhcF6atiHr9Uyl/s400/K3891.gif" width="302" /></a></div>
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Pattern Description: <a href="https://kwiksew.mccall.com/k3891">Kwik Sew 3891,</a> batwing top with curved hemline and raglan sleeves. I think this pattern has been around for a long time. This is the first Kwik Sew pattern I've ever sewn. I bought a few at Hancock the other day on deep discount. I made view A but with the scoop neckline.</div>
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Pattern Sizing: XS-XL. I made a S with the length of a M. I'd say generous sizing in this pattern. Not that sizing is super important. As long as the neckline sits where you want it to, you're good to go with this style of top.</div>
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Fabric Used: A Nicole Miller rayon jersey from Joann's. I bought a few yards a while back but this is the first I've sewn up. It's nice stuff. Nice medium-ish weight but still pretty drape-y. I think it was perfect for this top. I have worn this top many, many, many times since making it. And I have to report that the print has faded. I'm on about the 12th wash or so and it's just now fading. It didn't fade at first so I was pretty excited about the quality.</div>
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Alterations/Deviations: None, other than using a longer length. I also did my own neckband length. I always cut a neckband strip and then figure out the length as I'm sewing it on. I don't trust the length given in patterns because I think it always varies depending upon your fabric.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7SRGHBYlJxGYIB3GKJcO5y0qui_eUtL4IHxSleEBOA5GZUiz3HTESw4wyH_L1cpJnLCgvIhmqnfoo1owTBKSwMxAEk1LyzejaAFbXy13hw-BWrSCIC4wFDC7lDQW535AA52QJgfDCcLjc/s1600/FourTOps6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7SRGHBYlJxGYIB3GKJcO5y0qui_eUtL4IHxSleEBOA5GZUiz3HTESw4wyH_L1cpJnLCgvIhmqnfoo1owTBKSwMxAEk1LyzejaAFbXy13hw-BWrSCIC4wFDC7lDQW535AA52QJgfDCcLjc/s1600/FourTOps6.jpg" /></a></div>
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Likes/Dislikes: Love everything about this top. I love the way the raglan seams are sewn together to make the sleeves. I like the wide scoop neckline. The length is good. It's so easy to wear. I will take more care with my hem next time. I probably should have used some fusible to stabilize first.</div>
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Conclusion: I will definitely make this again. I have worn this one so much already that people might wonder if it's all I own. It's a great, super quick sew.</div>
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liza janehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16916364137307894200noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6560246728115023530.post-51199912743647016442016-05-23T21:55:00.000-04:002016-05-23T21:55:13.271-04:00Two Skirts<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtN2Oh6odu-306-n-VUlXkkpekprYyEzVNWg8wsaQZo3K8KlQMoRW7srvrNfmEPmJvwEB4XpLUCBYPTWZbZAmSZpp7mlA5D2UgM9VezuUVs0qzdkqObQie6X78ezq8-2A2YfPKU3Xgytnb/s1600/70skirt7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtN2Oh6odu-306-n-VUlXkkpekprYyEzVNWg8wsaQZo3K8KlQMoRW7srvrNfmEPmJvwEB4XpLUCBYPTWZbZAmSZpp7mlA5D2UgM9VezuUVs0qzdkqObQie6X78ezq8-2A2YfPKU3Xgytnb/s1600/70skirt7.jpg" /></a></div>
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I made a couple of skirts. One I am very happy with but the other is just ok. Nothing exciting to talk about here in my intro, so on to the review. I'm brain dead at the moment. We are in the last week and half of school and the kids have gone bonkers.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX-NzLU0ycQ5f3Kck-oDZNWj7sGzXxiIVKe4rb1jATwddj78hT5Dcs9aMonP0SNqSLt3HYBCXCrjHOdK1iNkMVnBXruLLTr7FGm3C6iHEGFZEiOAhqjbblERsWHcfsejKGHzmNVwO-Eeab/s1600/8019.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX-NzLU0ycQ5f3Kck-oDZNWj7sGzXxiIVKe4rb1jATwddj78hT5Dcs9aMonP0SNqSLt3HYBCXCrjHOdK1iNkMVnBXruLLTr7FGm3C6iHEGFZEiOAhqjbblERsWHcfsejKGHzmNVwO-Eeab/s400/8019.jpg" width="277" /></a></div>
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Pattern Description: <a href="http://www.simplicity.com/misses-vintage-1970s-skirts/8019.html#sz=30&start=33">Simplicity 8019</a>, a vintage 70's reprint. The pattern is a front gored, buttoned skirt in four different lengths. My first version is the turquoise linen skirt. My second, which I am much happier with, is the printed rayon midi length skirt.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdm56javTMylKWvSH2cI6skCc181acsD3IPgPEKANUsSrFoIWqhm_EQC4Y5Ape1NZ3YTeEgL2Bg-XGpBxXeWG401LRGD71apo5D9Ivx-8PhRPLTzv7f4XJkYJFk87Jar_fhVbsrB3qRKew/s1600/70skirt5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdm56javTMylKWvSH2cI6skCc181acsD3IPgPEKANUsSrFoIWqhm_EQC4Y5Ape1NZ3YTeEgL2Bg-XGpBxXeWG401LRGD71apo5D9Ivx-8PhRPLTzv7f4XJkYJFk87Jar_fhVbsrB3qRKew/s1600/70skirt5.jpg" /></a></div>
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Pattern Sizing: The pattern offers sizes 6-24. I made kind of a mix of sizes 16-18. I cut the pattern as a size 16 but when I held up the waistband piece, I realized that a size 16 waistband was not going to fit me where I wanted the skirt to sit. This must be designed to sit right on the natural waist. I wanted my skirt to sit lower, so I cut an 18 waistband and then sewed slightly smaller seam allowances at the top of of my skirt pieces so the waistband would fit. I'm not sure that was the best decision as the skirt would probably be a lot more flattering if it sat at my natural waist. I think it messes with the proportion a little bit. I think this is why I don't love the turquoise version. </div>
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Fabric Used: Turquoise linen/rayon blend for skirt one. Ditsy rayon challis print for skirt two. I think this skirt pattern lends itself to all types of fabric.</div>
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Alterations/Deviations: Other than the waistband issue I mentioned above, I made no other changes to the turquoise skirt. The length is the shortest length offered. Not as short as it looks on the envelope, but remember my skirt sits lower on my waist. When I made the rayon skirt, I was worried the waistband would be too flimsy (even interfaced). So I added elastic to the back waistband which I am patting myself on the back for. It keeps the skirt sitting where I want it to and takes care of some fit issues I have with the first version. If I make this again, I will definitely do the same thing again. I just sewed the waistband on and inserted elastic in the back half, stitching it at the side seams. I only pulled the elastic slightly. Just enough to give the back waistband a little bit of tension. It's smooth when it's on. The rayon version originally began as a maxi but I think I'm kind of over maxi skirts here lately. I kept shortening it (three times!) until I ended up with a length I liked. Well, I guess I like it. There is something frumpy about it in photos but I think it looks better in real life. It's flips and swishes around when I walk and it's fun to sit and cross your legs in with the button band split at the bottom. It's only a couple of inches longer than the turquoise skirt. It sits just below my knees.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixetqhwPPJF_1q1mbTNrlZnRs8F10oBgy1JwkhFPDC0JEVg2zpiULrBFNnhYv_SgGcGsgmdHgopxexR_olE4CDl_WjbDq9DxB5f5ujIvSCVwlHxxhmQlKFLWrNPVBq05dTERVgBjQQrizm/s1600/70skirt8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixetqhwPPJF_1q1mbTNrlZnRs8F10oBgy1JwkhFPDC0JEVg2zpiULrBFNnhYv_SgGcGsgmdHgopxexR_olE4CDl_WjbDq9DxB5f5ujIvSCVwlHxxhmQlKFLWrNPVBq05dTERVgBjQQrizm/s1600/70skirt8.jpg" /></a></div>
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Likes/Dislikes: I like the flared shape and button front. I do have some fit issues with the linen version. I think those wrinkles in the back have something to do with sewing the seams with smaller seam allowances. Or I need a sway back adjustment. I also do not like how the front of my linen skirt wrinkles. It's pretty unflattering and makes the button band stick out. I know I have a little belly there but I think the button band sticking out accentuates it even more (see below!). I don't feel that way in the rayon version. Anyway, I'm letting the turquoise skirt sit in the closet for a while to see if I grow to love it later. The rayon one has already been worn multiple times.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigwxD654mJMD7d287pbY5oQhrb9xnjUSNVuA8Ukq4G9HEaJBYPF64dTXUXZFA5A6fPhv5Y_UHD7awp55Lf5g-ND3K9rD12UzCVAxOaoO3OGu3_AjB5Wog1wuipcRK1cyr4D0apFnLFRiC1/s1600/70skirt6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigwxD654mJMD7d287pbY5oQhrb9xnjUSNVuA8Ukq4G9HEaJBYPF64dTXUXZFA5A6fPhv5Y_UHD7awp55Lf5g-ND3K9rD12UzCVAxOaoO3OGu3_AjB5Wog1wuipcRK1cyr4D0apFnLFRiC1/s1600/70skirt6.jpg" /></a></div>
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Conclusion: Nice little skirt pattern. I would like to make it again in a longer midi length (mid calf). I actually have some black tencel fabric that would be perfect. And who couldn't use a good black skirt. I'll add it to the queue!</div>
liza janehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16916364137307894200noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6560246728115023530.post-90766491717930147462016-05-10T23:09:00.000-04:002016-05-11T16:57:39.739-04:00Finally Finished Object<div style="text-align: center;">
Well, here it is. Not my longest running ufo (that would be <a href="http://lizajanesews.blogspot.com/2014/05/i-want-to-cry.html">my partial Nicola dress </a>that still hangs in my sewing room) but close. I started this dress at the end of November last year and just finally called it finished this past weekend. I'm still not sold on the maxi length but I'm leaving it for now. I figure I'll put this dress away now that summer is almost here and then see what I think about it when it cools down again. It's already too hot for long sleeves anyway.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwVXjjrf26zSjlbL4MDni_47ogITihhtAHVTLVrcm-dUkrjDrw5qaahP55DKbCkRfkcnOmLtahyphenhyphenFGnNn0uY9WpjEl4aJBr7AHisrqyqOFJMhFXaPxdwXFGHbrV4w4GQLt7FIRLb8-HEuhf/s1600/MaxiShirtDress1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwVXjjrf26zSjlbL4MDni_47ogITihhtAHVTLVrcm-dUkrjDrw5qaahP55DKbCkRfkcnOmLtahyphenhyphenFGnNn0uY9WpjEl4aJBr7AHisrqyqOFJMhFXaPxdwXFGHbrV4w4GQLt7FIRLb8-HEuhf/s1600/MaxiShirtDress1.jpg" /></a></div>
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Pattern Description: <a href="https://mccallpattern.mccall.com/m7242">McCalls 7242</a>. Misses button down shirt dress with elastic waist and a mandarin collar. There are length and sleeve variations. I was drawn to the 70's vibe of the maxi with the long blouse-y sleeves.</div>
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Pattern Sizing: 6-22. I cut a straight size 14 out of laziness. Actually, I did a lot of things out of laziness on this dress and I can tell. I think I definitely needed a 16 in the waist and hip. And maybe even the shoulder. But the fit is decent. This is not a pattern with an obscene amount of ease like you find sometimes in Big 4 patterns. The skirt is pretty slim, which is nice.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyiAFSlq_HM-_KrQpbJj92CTu8cOGq11YBGq-4f6NWQolS3mfUaHEgpWYFMs_W2f-9sD5dEzY_QLg4zHo326gFNi2JiYJ0B1cHbcEXdOYBT7G8y4LBcFkZIhSKyW1kuqzz5XP7a0EH_9ES/s1600/MaxiShirtDress2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyiAFSlq_HM-_KrQpbJj92CTu8cOGq11YBGq-4f6NWQolS3mfUaHEgpWYFMs_W2f-9sD5dEzY_QLg4zHo326gFNi2JiYJ0B1cHbcEXdOYBT7G8y4LBcFkZIhSKyW1kuqzz5XP7a0EH_9ES/s1600/MaxiShirtDress2.jpg" /></a></div>
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Fabric Used: I used a fabulous Cotton and Steel rayon poplin. It is seriously nice stuff. But it is on the more expensive side of the fabric I buy. I had to buy five(!) yards of it to make this dress. I really did need all that yardage, too. So this actually ended up being kind of a pricey dress. I think that's why I'm a little bummed that it didn't turn out as fantastic as I was hoping it would be. The rayon poplin doesn't have the same soft drape that rayon challis has. It's drape-y but it's also crisp, if that makes sense. I think rayon challis might have been a better choice.</div>
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I bought the pattern when it first came out but didn't make it right away because of the yardage required. Then I saw <a href="https://notesfromamadhousewife.wordpress.com/2015/10/07/a-very-floral-mccalls-7242/">this version by Lisa g.</a> and <a href="https://sewbusylizzy.com/2015/10/07/mccalls7242/">this one by Sew Busy Lizzy.</a> I was sold. I browsed around online and bought the Cotton and Steel rayon because I was making this for a special event- my school wide art show at the beginning of December. When the fabric arrived, I had exactly one week to sew up my dress. I finished everything but the collar and the finishing and lost all steam. Sewing under a deadline is never a good idea for me. I didn't finish it in time for my art show and so it sat on my dress form for several months. I'm not sure why I didn't pick it right back up after the show. Anyway, months later I forced myself to finish it. I sewed that damn collar five times (re-cutting it one time) before I got those curved front edges to match. Then I screwed up the button holes and had to fix a few by hand (they don't look good up close). And I also couldn't decide on a hem length. I almost chopped it to knee length but I decided to leave it as a maxi for now. It seems like a lot of fabric with the length and the long sleeves but I'll see how I feel later.</div>
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Alterations/Deviations: After reading Lisa's post, I narrowed the front facing and top stitched it down. I also shortened the sleeves two inches at the shorten/lengthen line. I liked the big blouse-y sleeves but I wanted to be able to wear this to work and not dip my sleeves in paint. I think shortening them was a smart idea. They are still pretty big but don't billow over my hands or anything. Other than that, no other changes. The length of the maxi is per the pattern. I could use another inch or two. I can only wear this with the flattest of shoes. Nothing with a heel or it looks too short. If you are on the taller side, you may want to add some length.</div>
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Likes/Dislikes: I have some fit issues but I do like the way the collar sits. However, if there is a photo that illustrates my need for a square shoulder adjustment, it's this one below. That diagonal pulling goes all the way to my shoulders. I can feel it. I think a square shoulder adjustment (adding to the shoulder seam) would solve that. And a size up would probably help, too. I like the way the elastic waist casing is sewn as well. It's done with a larger seam allowance. You have to read the instructions carefully.</div>
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Conclusion: I'd love to try this again, sleeveless for summer. In fact, I may just do that. I have a soft rayon challis in stash that would be perfect. If I make this again, I will definitely do a square shoulder and raise the armscye to match. I would also go up a size in the waist and hip and add length. I think despite my needing a few changes that this is a pretty good pattern. I'm glad I finally finished it!</div>
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<br />liza janehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16916364137307894200noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6560246728115023530.post-46351171160806415322016-04-13T22:38:00.001-04:002016-04-13T22:44:03.457-04:00More Shirts!<div style="text-align: center;">
I made more shirts! Can you believe it? I made two, although one is a success and one not so much. After <a href="http://lizajanesews.blogspot.com/2016/03/shirt-making-shoulder-fitting-blergh.html">my shirt making adventure recently,</a> I was pretty sure I would take a good long break from sewing collared shirts. But I received so much good advice from everyone in the comment section that I decided to have another go.</div>
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Pattern Description: Honestly, I don't have any great take away from this shirt sewing experience because this shirt style is so different. This is not a traditional shirt pattern, as you can see. It's a BurdaStyle pattern-- <a href="http://www.burdastyle.com/pattern_store/patterns/gathered-peplum-blouse-032015">Gathered Peplum Blouse 03/2015 #109</a>. It's a very roomy and wide blouse with a gathered bottom. I'm not sure I would call it a peplum but I don't really know what to call it. I actually bought this pattern from the BurdaStyle website last year around this time of year. I printed it, taped it together, traced it and added seam allowances and then lost all steam to actually make it. I find pdf's to be a lot of trouble. Anyway, after reading a couple of comments on my post about shirt making that recommended I try a shirt pattern that had a back yoke and pleat detail, I remembered this pattern all ready to go in my sewing room.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitJXuIElIr1QbHC1_AHdMc-MRBEFWOt1p5KlIlkIVEJPoBXCT14Hsohg7Rw081SbxksZXvIkW4XTMJrqeUm2pMhZOnB5ww7suLERMfwHx8tvzK_L_u9YP9Ieg8fRtivXfNJImovutwkowG/s1600/109-032015-M_large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="151" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitJXuIElIr1QbHC1_AHdMc-MRBEFWOt1p5KlIlkIVEJPoBXCT14Hsohg7Rw081SbxksZXvIkW4XTMJrqeUm2pMhZOnB5ww7suLERMfwHx8tvzK_L_u9YP9Ieg8fRtivXfNJImovutwkowG/s400/109-032015-M_large.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Pattern Sizing: I cut a 40 and it is really wide. The style is supposed to be roomy and boxy but I could have gone down to a 38 easily. Also, the shoulders are super wide. Maybe they are supposed to be slightly dropped. I'm not sure. I had a few comments on my shirt making post that have me paying attention to where the shoulder/armscye seam hits. This shirt tells me nothing about that, though! I left the shoulder seam as is, however. When I make a more traditional shirt again, I will definitely look at the width of the shoulders.</div>
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Fabric Used: Both versions are rayon challis. For the black version, I used two different rayons I found at Joann's. Not sure if they were meant to go together or not, but the tan color is a perfect match between the two. I had fun deciding which parts of the shirt would be made from which fabric. The black shirt is a definite favorite. I love the way it turned out. I didn't worry too much about matching those diamonds but I did try and keep them straight when I cut out the pieces. I did an ok job. It veers off a little in places. The grey and white floral short sleeve shirt is a super cheap rayon challis I found at Hancock. I'm not as in love with it as the black version. The grey and white print combined with the style of the shirt reminds me of the Golden Girls for some reason. Like 80's retirement home chic. It's a little frumpy.</div>
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Alterations/ Deviations: I made changes to the sleeves on both versions. When cutting out the black version, I turned the one piece sleeve in to a two piece because I didn't want to try my first ever tower placket in rayon challis. I did cut long sleeves, but later decided to shorten them to 3/4 length. I finished the hem of the sleeves with a skinny band instead of a wide cuff. I did keep a placket opening and did a buttonhole on the cuff to close it. On the short sleeve version, the sleeves are really the reason I don't really like it so much. I wanted to do a sleeveless version originally. But when I sewed it up without sleeves, I couldn't figure out how to finish the armholes. The shoulder seams are too dropped for binding and I couldn't wrap my brain around adding a sleeve band or something similar. I didn't think it through. So I cut sleeves from the pattern using the last little bit of fabric I had left. This is all the length I could do. Meh. I also added an inch to the length of the shirt which I think contributes to the frump factor. And I only did four buttons instead of five ( I spaced them myself on both). There really needs to be a button in the middle where the gathered seam sits. Oh, and I left off the pockets in both versions- front flap pockets and in-seam pockets.</div>
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Likes/Dislikes: I really love the first version I made with the 3/4 length sleeves. I love the print mix and the swingy, gathered bottom. It really is the perfect blouse to wear to work. It's easy to wear but funky and semi-professional looking. The grey version needs longer sleeves, I think. I am tempted to go back to Hancock and check for more of that fabric to redo the sleeves. The short sleeves make it look dated for some reason. If I ever make this pattern again, I will narrow the shoulder width a bit and maybe downsize the collar. But other than that, I like it. I am much happier with this shirt making experience than the last. And yes, even though I'm not sure I did that back pleat correctly, I am liking the feel and fit of the back yoke versus no yoke. I don't notice <a href="http://lizajanesews.blogspot.com/2016/03/shirt-making-shoulder-fitting-blergh.html">the creeping back neckline that I lamented about before</a> but that could also be a result of using a drape-y fabric.</div>
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Conclusion: Fun shirt pattern. I will definitely look at shirt patterns with a back yoke from now on. And maybe one day I'll try my hand at a tower placket. I love the black version and it is already being worn frequently. The grey version will get some wear as is, but I'd love to revisit those sleeves. </div>
<br />liza janehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16916364137307894200noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6560246728115023530.post-15409546628155276692016-03-31T10:32:00.002-04:002016-03-31T10:32:05.495-04:00Burda Kimono Dress<div style="text-align: center;">
I made this dress shortly after I finished <a href="http://lizajanesews.blogspot.com/2016/03/shirt-making-shoulder-fitting-blergh.html">my last shirt in the previous post</a>. I needed a palate cleanser and this dress pattern looked easy. And it was! Super easy. It's basically a sack with a drawstring. I'm pretty pleased with how it turned out although I'm not 100% about the long kimono sleeves. I might shorten them. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLSwtDc8x2Yq639PUQaGOxxxrsbOImavt1_zkT_5TPH294fyjLZuEJHj-m4nuALms_zYQXlVlBqB6QCpwNPpoxdwyt9J4zZLnDcBBNkj07S4li2tHlhXmof8HFC0OJsMz58w0h2qJezNX9/s1600/BurdaKimonoDress1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLSwtDc8x2Yq639PUQaGOxxxrsbOImavt1_zkT_5TPH294fyjLZuEJHj-m4nuALms_zYQXlVlBqB6QCpwNPpoxdwyt9J4zZLnDcBBNkj07S4li2tHlhXmof8HFC0OJsMz58w0h2qJezNX9/s1600/BurdaKimonoDress1.jpg" /></a></div>
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Pattern Description: <a href="http://www.burdastyle.co.uk/b6732-dresses">Burda 6732.</a> A sack dress with a drawstring casing around the waist and deep patch pockets. One version has long kimono sleeves and a v-neck and the other has a jewel neckline and sleeve bands.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNlTluC_sf2zVAvXElkev_IpKVvRx_9Zb3tM_EStKMI6DkhyLbQEZnQUl1dHIYFLP_8MO5jHpnG_zy1-H4ByBVbmdUgWyR29qKnX4Ufa7PbL5WoXsw0t2sdFj7ClJFSEwXZYLyZ_1Kg6ed/s1600/Burda6732.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNlTluC_sf2zVAvXElkev_IpKVvRx_9Zb3tM_EStKMI6DkhyLbQEZnQUl1dHIYFLP_8MO5jHpnG_zy1-H4ByBVbmdUgWyR29qKnX4Ufa7PbL5WoXsw0t2sdFj7ClJFSEwXZYLyZ_1Kg6ed/s400/Burda6732.jpg" width="280" /></a></div>
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Pattern Sizing: Burda sizes 36-46. I made a 42 but I think I'd size down to a 40 next go around. At least on the top half. I didn't really have any fit issues because again, it's a sack. The side seam/under arm seam could be closer to the body. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOB6PMBbMEykyE2Rxn9HIQOVfrwll7n1uwEiDisrGlOmofJk5YxIau4P7o9E3mZF2Ei-Lb93tReoXXJd-9TngcXSPdx98SpEOVaDpGwyP5c0U8uo6j1fCycGJxbGmuHN7LAY0gHtVUNd9P/s1600/BurdaKimonoDress3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOB6PMBbMEykyE2Rxn9HIQOVfrwll7n1uwEiDisrGlOmofJk5YxIau4P7o9E3mZF2Ei-Lb93tReoXXJd-9TngcXSPdx98SpEOVaDpGwyP5c0U8uo6j1fCycGJxbGmuHN7LAY0gHtVUNd9P/s1600/BurdaKimonoDress3.jpg" /></a></div>
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Fabric Used: I used a printed linen I found at Joann's. I picked it because I thought it was the right weight for this dress- not too lightweight but not too heavy either. And the printed pattern on it keeps it from being see-through. And I really love linen.</div>
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Alterations/Deviations: None! Absolutely none. Didn't mess with the length. I didn't even mess with the back neckline after all that fitting I've done on those shirts recently. The back neckline could use some minor adjustments ( I think I'll take a small dart in the back of the neck next time before cutting out fabric) but nothing I can't live with. The v-neck is done with a facing. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_guFQLdqJX7oaY3Ci2rVMJPrqi3cu81wIN3rRCMghyCXNa9g1l34OVsiV7lz1ICPDftX4XiWAtLeW1wC-2Rf_FNOJAHPKnUcWhgI53YRKHdmMSPpFHVkyipsFQHFHj4KZP90k72wRmqyT/s1600/BurdaKimonoDress2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_guFQLdqJX7oaY3Ci2rVMJPrqi3cu81wIN3rRCMghyCXNa9g1l34OVsiV7lz1ICPDftX4XiWAtLeW1wC-2Rf_FNOJAHPKnUcWhgI53YRKHdmMSPpFHVkyipsFQHFHj4KZP90k72wRmqyT/s1600/BurdaKimonoDress2.jpg" /></a></div>
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Likes/Dislikes: I like the v-neck. I love where the drawstring hits. And I love the deep patch pockets even if I didn't sew them perfectly. You can't tell in the busy print anyway.</div>
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Conclusion: Super easy, relaxed dress with some nice design features- the drawstring, the hem and the necklines. I made this dress as a casual dress I could wear to work when it gets warmer but I think it looks pretty dressy after all. I would love to try it again in a fabric with more drape. I have a rayon poplin in my stash that I have in mind. I am not entirely sure about the length of the sleeves. Next time, I think I'll try the version with the sleeve bands but I may still shorten the sleeves on this dress. </div>
liza janehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16916364137307894200noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6560246728115023530.post-7016280885512502902016-03-17T18:25:00.002-04:002016-03-17T18:25:59.739-04:00Shirt Making. Shoulder Fitting. Blergh. <div style="text-align: center;">
That's how I feel about it. I'm even having a hard time writing about all of this. Maybe I ventured in to shirt making for too long. Although it's not the actual sewing that I'm so meh about. It's the fit. I did all sorts of alterations and adjustments and you can't tell. Or I can't tell. Or I don't know if I can tell. Ugh. Anyway, I didn't solve my shoulder fit issue like I thought I would. So yeah, blergh. Time for a break from making shirts.</div>
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I started with a Simplicity pattern that I knew deep down wasn't going to be great. But it had design features that I was digging. It had a seam through the middle of the shirt and different options for the back so you could use two contrasting fabrics. I'd love to tell you the pattern number but the Simplicity website is such a mess, I can't find it. And the pattern I actually have has some weird display number on it. The top left photo in the collage above is of two of the versions I made of this particular Simplicity pattern. I actually made a third version that I took apart to reuse the bottom half on a subsequent version. The bottom half of the shirt is an awesome batik that I have hoarded for a long time, which makes me sad. The very first version I sewed up had a shoulder fit issue that I have experienced multiple times since I started sewing (and has made me abandon projects often). So I made a proclamation that I was going to solve my fit issue for once and for all. I took a few cell phone pics so I'll show you one <i>horribly</i> unflattering photo to give you an idea of what I'm talking about. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdaM1Rx0Jw8oYiJ_B1Dpj7kPC1rNNTxuYC7v52ZSxT5zllXEXeKwUBMYtIvlNh17y22KZe9JnS3EbWCRFbSnkNIkJcIYygAmn_t_3zy_7p-TARi6uREbzPTMQ8KIjMiz0iANWUzUCQP1fv/s1600/ShirtmakingAlt3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdaM1Rx0Jw8oYiJ_B1Dpj7kPC1rNNTxuYC7v52ZSxT5zllXEXeKwUBMYtIvlNh17y22KZe9JnS3EbWCRFbSnkNIkJcIYygAmn_t_3zy_7p-TARi6uREbzPTMQ8KIjMiz0iANWUzUCQP1fv/s640/ShirtmakingAlt3.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I know you can't see much in this photo, but I was trying to get a photo of how the back neckline bunches up. The shoulders don't sit right and they don't feel right. I get wrinkles on the front in between the armsyce and neckline. And the back neckline rides up the back of my neck. That really is my main issue. The back neckline is uncomfortable. It rides up and bunches up at the base of the back of my neck. I also get horizontal wrinkles at the back of my neck, which you can see in the photo above. According to Fit For Real People, that means a square shoulder adjustment, right? I find I do much better with wider necklines and also patterns with back neckline darts. I have read up about all the things it could be but have never come to any sort of definite conclusion. Maybe forward shoulder? I did end up doing a forward shoulder adjustment later on- see below. High round back? I don't have any gaping at the back of the neck or the back armscye. I actually tend to have pulling across the back in between my shoulders and the back neckline feels snug. So are my shoulders broad? I don't know. Maybe it's a combination of several things. I really, truly don't know at this point. I think all this fitting has made me even more confused. I've also suspected I had some <a href="http://lizajanesews.blogspot.com/2011/07/brownilocks-and-three-broad-back.html">broad back issues in the past.</a> I have had some success with making a quick and dirty square shoulder adjustment where I just straighten out the shoulder seam. Which is what I did on the second two versions of the Simplicity pattern I tried (among other things). But back necklines (and sometimes front, too) never seem to sit right.</div>
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I read up on shoulder adjustments in the books Fit For Real People (Pati Palmer and Marla Alto) and another called The Perfect Fit (author listed as Creative Publishing Int'l). I used the square shoulder adjustment seen in the collage above. Later when I tried a forward shoulder adjustment, I used the method described in The Perfect Fit. There was one main discrepancy between the two books regarding a forward shoulder- one said to rotate the shoulder point on the sleeve and one said not to. So I was confused about that. I did end up rotating the shoulder point forward. Is there any reason I shouldn't have?</div>
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Eventually, I realized there were too many other fit issues with the Simplicity pattern (sleeve issues, no shaping, one piece collar and cuffs not even remotely the right size) to make a salvageable shirt. So I abandoned that pattern and looked for another. I flipped through the pattern books and ended up buying <a href="http://mccallpattern.mccall.com/m6436-products-14883.php?page_id=483">McCalls 6436</a>. This was a much better shirt pattern than the Simplicity one. But I'm still not thrilled with my end result. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWofbi3ebH-YyBilNRF4_ImXyPLk4qIc4TI0RDK1wbwD01vwfNOVQ8KU9s70-flQLkTTrODi3zdiOJiophGT5TdwqJpiEZ5DOFlub1IiLTjg-jSKQNqmrex7MkzsS8v9DOvWzDlPxv7Zq3/s1600/M6436.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="520" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWofbi3ebH-YyBilNRF4_ImXyPLk4qIc4TI0RDK1wbwD01vwfNOVQ8KU9s70-flQLkTTrODi3zdiOJiophGT5TdwqJpiEZ5DOFlub1IiLTjg-jSKQNqmrex7MkzsS8v9DOvWzDlPxv7Zq3/s640/M6436.gif" width="640" /></a></div>
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My first version was the chambray colored linen version on the top right of the collage above. I decided to sew a size up to begin with thinking I could take care of my supposed broad shoulder/broad back issues. And I did a square shoulder adjustment but I can't remember how much. It turned out way, way too big. I'd say this shirt pattern has an large amount of ease (it's supposed to be relaxed, I think). I also discovered that the sleeves were more than two inches too long. I took the cuff off of one sleeve and attempted to shorten it before abandoning this shirt. I could possibly work on the sleeve issues and make this a wearable shirt in the future. It would be wearable in a big, boyfriend shirt kind of way. I'm saving it for now but we'll see.</div>
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Next I made the white and black linen version. I used my normal size, a 14 grading to a 16 at the hip, but also made some shoulder alterations. I took notes on my last two versions so I could document what I did. I did a 3/8" square shoulder adjustment on the back shoulder seam only to also account for a forward shoulder (which I have suspected I needed). I also reduced the height of the collar and collar stand by a teeny bit and shortened the sleeves 1.5 inches. I didn't mess with the darts or side seams at all, although I think I could have. I do feel like the shoulder fit is better than I've ever had before, but something still feels off. The armscye feels too low, which is crazy considering my shoulder issues. But I will say that the forward shoulder is a move in the right direction, I believe.</div>
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The last version I sewed was the blue batik shirt. This was supposed to be the culmination of all my fitting work where I ended up with a fantastically fitting shirt (that's how it works, right?). I did a 3/8" forward shoulder adjustment but did it on the front and back shoulder seam. So I essentially did a forward shoulder but skipped the square shoulder. I also raised the armscye 3/8" and reduced the collar height a tiny bit more. The collar is teeny tiny! I made it too small. And I shortened the sleeves another 1/2"- so 2" total from the original pattern (and I have long arms!). And meh. The fit is just meh. I actually feel like I have that creeping back neckline more on this version than the white version. So maybe I do really need the square shoulder adjustment followed by the forward shoulder adjustment. The blue batik fabric I used is beautiful, but not ideal for apparel. I think its meant for quilting. It wrinkles like crazy. I ironed it right before pictures and it wrinkled just from trying to tuck it in to something. I am really pleased with the placement. I ran the stripe vertical instead of horizontal after soliciting advice on instagram. I tried to balance the dark and light parts of the fabric and I'm happy with how it turned out.</div>
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If you've made it this far in this blog post, congratulations! You are a champion. It has been hard to write so I know it's been hard to read. Just for shits and giggles, here is a photo of me in a rtw shirt that I love and wear all the time. I don't experience any issues with the back neckline riding up or the shoulder/armscye being uncomfortable. Looking at the photo, though, I don't see that the shirt fits fabulously or anything. In fact, it doesn't appear to fit that well at all. But it definitely feels better. It does have a back yoke with a pleat, so maybe that is the difference? The fabric also has more drape but it's nothing special. Just some hard wearing polyester. </div>
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I've written this post over a few days and now that I've read back through it this last time, I realized I've gone down a fitting rabbit hole. I'm probably overanalyzing. If I end up venturing in to shirt making again, I think I'll just go for a totally new pattern. But now it's time to sew something really fun. On a positive note, I will say that I had the opportunity to work on my precision sewing skills with all this shirt making. I beefed up my top stitching and collar sewing skills for sure. And I'm sure I'll wear the white linen shirt quite a bit but I'm on the fence about the blue batik shirt. Anyone else have shoulder fit issues? </div>
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<br />liza janehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16916364137307894200noreply@blogger.com38tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6560246728115023530.post-37035686244906172932016-01-18T23:24:00.000-05:002016-01-18T23:24:11.975-05:00Blast From The Past<div style="text-align: center;">
I am pretty sure I had a corduroy jumper just like this in 1994. Remember when overalls were popular? I loved mine. I had a denim pair I wore all the time and I also remember having a dress like this. Anyway, I'm digging this jumper. It was worn immediately after taking it off the sewing machine, which is always a good sign.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE754k7tJGQ8qh-CScWW6rivtfUCM4sYwj2MQJTNROeDpDT_hPq1gHNu4X2aPSu43JaFy99kilPuEDOU1woqB1tPyOT749BVO-wGhCXPp7oWOSD-G6XoxcfMw8UeGZspBZZVIZnRvmOShT/s1600/Overalls1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE754k7tJGQ8qh-CScWW6rivtfUCM4sYwj2MQJTNROeDpDT_hPq1gHNu4X2aPSu43JaFy99kilPuEDOU1woqB1tPyOT749BVO-wGhCXPp7oWOSD-G6XoxcfMw8UeGZspBZZVIZnRvmOShT/s1600/Overalls1.jpg" /></a></div>
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<i>There was some really cold wind blowing when I took these photos!</i></div>
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I cancelled my Burda magazine subscription a couple of years ago to save some funds. And honestly, I miss it. I think I'm going to have to resubscribe. I know some give Burda a hard time because they have some pretty wacky designs. But I like that. The magazine is fun to get every month and flip through. And even if you don't make anything right then and there, you always have those patterns to browse through in the future. I <i>do not</i>, however, enjoy printing and taping together pdf's. So it really takes something special for me to purchase a pattern on the Burdastyle website, print it, tape it together, add seam allowances, etc. So much work! That's how badly I wanted to make an overall dress.</div>
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Pattern Description: Jumper dress with side button closure and two skirt variations. Straps can be fastened with buttons or a variation where the straps are pulled through a grommet and tied in a knot. I'm kind of interested in trying that.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh041_1sZlqcg-cX-3yTDaQ_a4XMVM3c4vU140IHDge4biuZz18C_EWuuJapMBoCDrkuA5P8tqcTs4bKGnkGniYctc0UP9QBSz6V36-SpfscCeNlv0jj5GhWkZ_pwihNYr-YVp8GrNJQlRK/s1600/BurdaEasy+Jumper.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh041_1sZlqcg-cX-3yTDaQ_a4XMVM3c4vU140IHDge4biuZz18C_EWuuJapMBoCDrkuA5P8tqcTs4bKGnkGniYctc0UP9QBSz6V36-SpfscCeNlv0jj5GhWkZ_pwihNYr-YVp8GrNJQlRK/s1600/BurdaEasy+Jumper.jpg" /></a></div>
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Pattern Sizing: Burda size 34-44. I made a 42. I typically make a 40. My bust measurement falls in between a 38 and 40, my waist in between a 40 and 42. But my hips really are a 42. So I made a straight size 42 out of laziness. I figured I'd need the ease around my hips and I did.</div>
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Fabric Used: I used an uncut corduroy. It has some stretch to it and attracts every piece of lint in a ten yard radius. I am going to buy a lint roller just for when I wear this dress. The corduroy was easy to sew. I did use my walking foot and a press cloth when I ironed seams. It is a little stiff to wear, though. It's ok for a winter jumper but I wouldn't want anything so stiff for warmer weather version. I used some great metal buttons with anchors stamped on them for all the button closures.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2I1ImCZd2YDujeQPvzSe-Qdf_-NoDaTq2xTf9WO4JH4ZVRsKAYrpsCSoK6ofmF0YIz4fbdeUoCUO7QqGSLy0hQFOxZKvJaMOtj2tsHikqziuvHTzOEgZbDIBejEjV42p2xmhHw4UveORn/s1600/Overalls2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2I1ImCZd2YDujeQPvzSe-Qdf_-NoDaTq2xTf9WO4JH4ZVRsKAYrpsCSoK6ofmF0YIz4fbdeUoCUO7QqGSLy0hQFOxZKvJaMOtj2tsHikqziuvHTzOEgZbDIBejEjV42p2xmhHw4UveORn/s1600/Overalls2.jpg" /></a></div>
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Alterations/ Deviations: I lined the yoke and skirt with a slippery poly lining. I treated the yoke lining as an underlining and the skirt as a separate lining. I knew I wanted to wear this with tights. I also three inches of length- one inch to the yoke and two to the straight skirt. So the original pattern length is short.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs6pUKZB1aW9Ilqo8W-Bqb8cnJNEVXo-_8IPrZ_ibOkvCoouZCYe92u6-S_0H31n6r2HsU3FatcmCKz8BARPe7VJD7sRT03QVjCLlqNBdDW1QcKlTavkFtx8aB7d5VwO68P5Oe6SjoBx0s/s1600/Overalls4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs6pUKZB1aW9Ilqo8W-Bqb8cnJNEVXo-_8IPrZ_ibOkvCoouZCYe92u6-S_0H31n6r2HsU3FatcmCKz8BARPe7VJD7sRT03QVjCLlqNBdDW1QcKlTavkFtx8aB7d5VwO68P5Oe6SjoBx0s/s1600/Overalls4.jpg" /></a></div>
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Likes/Dislikes: There are some fit issues but I really like the end result. It feels very art teacher-y for some reason. Kind of apron-like, I guess. The side view is not the most flattering, but eh. I did need the size 42 around my hips but I think if I make it again I will cut down a size from the yoke up. The front bib (?) part is too wide. I will definitely narrow that down next time. I think it would make the straps sit better at the back as well. Also, you can see in the inside out shot below that the straps were a lot longer than I needed. I overexposed the photo below so you can see the seam lines better. And yes, I pressed those wrinkles in my lining so they are there forever.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7r-6uWTYbBh3WJEgCcF8DzJR3lWNOiK9RQaEx009TXVXMWhniuF_kdq7WFZ5_Mg61DsflqPZ7fTaxzXLIqA5xs6arOgGwO39uoKTlI0BMKLmnwhMOfRMKghCo9o1d7lgkjBOMjwA91l2g/s1600/Overalls6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7r-6uWTYbBh3WJEgCcF8DzJR3lWNOiK9RQaEx009TXVXMWhniuF_kdq7WFZ5_Mg61DsflqPZ7fTaxzXLIqA5xs6arOgGwO39uoKTlI0BMKLmnwhMOfRMKghCo9o1d7lgkjBOMjwA91l2g/s1600/Overalls6.jpg" /></a></div>
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Conclusion: I like it a lot. I really want to make this again in a lighter weight denim for summer. And I want to try the knotted straps through the grommets. And probably the gathered skirt. I could see myself wearing it over tee shirts and tank tops. In fact, I've already ordered some denim!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuFEJMofkDw-6cHpYa-hsFacD-AYB3SPotKuriwGpPxET_7FJWAcsEHPT2GHzTavsa6Y1TxQ3AcJUy8kRMfOY04g1neSN-oP2dUHoJkwhlE4ZrCIiAexTZIjsk4o7j0jZCFKZt1XGego50/s1600/Overalls3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuFEJMofkDw-6cHpYa-hsFacD-AYB3SPotKuriwGpPxET_7FJWAcsEHPT2GHzTavsa6Y1TxQ3AcJUy8kRMfOY04g1neSN-oP2dUHoJkwhlE4ZrCIiAexTZIjsk4o7j0jZCFKZt1XGego50/s1600/Overalls3.jpg" /></a></div>
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<br />liza janehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16916364137307894200noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6560246728115023530.post-2616482175241675142015-12-20T11:57:00.000-05:002015-12-20T12:10:45.206-05:00Being Two (And A Half)<div style="text-align: center;">
I decided to take Christmas card photos of Jane again this year. <a href="http://lizajanesews.blogspot.com/2014/12/happenings.html">Last year's</a> are still some of my favorites. So I set up a cute little vignette on the back porch and dressed Jane in her Christmas jumper I made last month. And this is what I got.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPH9fmaBKuAvZIKf4iFo4WmlYTBXzREG2exUGjXlYe0S6UjrIdbU6fhii1E5jEPmPWYTVsnuvFOMuLHuS3KTrdumPPWcABKtdwAVozn4CmdWWhZUCDWI4wTcgwSGmoklEiaLcwRecpFNA4/s1600/ChristmasJumper7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPH9fmaBKuAvZIKf4iFo4WmlYTBXzREG2exUGjXlYe0S6UjrIdbU6fhii1E5jEPmPWYTVsnuvFOMuLHuS3KTrdumPPWcABKtdwAVozn4CmdWWhZUCDWI4wTcgwSGmoklEiaLcwRecpFNA4/s1600/ChristmasJumper7.jpg" /></a></div>
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Oh, two year olds (going on threenagers). They are so wonderfully cooperative, aren't they?? I bribed with everything I had. But no such luck. If you could have been a fly on the wall while I was attempting my photo shoot.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ3RECadrLo2y-bQEJwDYZdV2iepfAWO0EvxWV6JNY9L2pT-9YOT7NmaE44B2nDTA3THTZXXD02CSCcyIBYj0c84igpKAQ393vEdMJgtcB_O1biLlst3z5GmPXzoZndGM9CO_tltGsG6AT/s1600/ChristmasJumper6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ3RECadrLo2y-bQEJwDYZdV2iepfAWO0EvxWV6JNY9L2pT-9YOT7NmaE44B2nDTA3THTZXXD02CSCcyIBYj0c84igpKAQ393vEdMJgtcB_O1biLlst3z5GmPXzoZndGM9CO_tltGsG6AT/s1600/ChristmasJumper6.jpg" /></a></div>
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<i>Most of the photos are blurry like this. Never stops moving.</i></div>
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I hope these photos make you laugh as hard as I did as I was going through them. I took 248 photos trying to get a sweet one. And I got one sweet one. <i>One. </i>So we put the sweet one on the front of our Christmas card this year and a bunch of the hilarious ones on the back. She's a trip, y'all. And now a quick pattern review of the corduroy jumper I sewed (jumper in the American sense of the word!). </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiIuljTkIS57SUFXtawqCrC9tMV6SDlOPplbtr9-tbsIqKkbhlZUm_MGADwvI7UBdVOgF_mgoMmRo-6JDCvtxAIZkVmRkKPpCmkHzQcJI5WxF_RyVVr_Kxmt6qg-0TG3tRWyWVsXpYF43f/s1600/ChristmasJumper4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiIuljTkIS57SUFXtawqCrC9tMV6SDlOPplbtr9-tbsIqKkbhlZUm_MGADwvI7UBdVOgF_mgoMmRo-6JDCvtxAIZkVmRkKPpCmkHzQcJI5WxF_RyVVr_Kxmt6qg-0TG3tRWyWVsXpYF43f/s1600/ChristmasJumper4.jpg" /></a></div>
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Pattern Description: <a href="http://www.simplicity.com/burda-style-dress/b9447.html#q=9817-burda-style&start=1">A Burda envelope pattern, 9447.</a> Three sleeveless dresses with different trim options- bows and hem bands. I made view C which has a really cute bubble shape with elastic in the hem and gathered patch pockets. Jane loves the pockets, which you can't see very well in this fabric. Every time she has worn it, she packs them full of little toys.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWzf1QuY9_ujwcGTORgrTfFKxJQRLUbej3PYvgWgOdudKgH2FlxvRcYwQdOmdlDdcQE99H7fm4XKBmSl2eL0tdSLiXT7B8RViuwK4g5BLx04GxOFwJQqWZkqhT-y8lQ-vaMwqEES2eHdNG/s1600/9447line.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWzf1QuY9_ujwcGTORgrTfFKxJQRLUbej3PYvgWgOdudKgH2FlxvRcYwQdOmdlDdcQE99H7fm4XKBmSl2eL0tdSLiXT7B8RViuwK4g5BLx04GxOFwJQqWZkqhT-y8lQ-vaMwqEES2eHdNG/s400/9447line.jpg" width="221" /></a></div>
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Pattern Sizing: US sizes 2-7. I made Jane a size 2 even though she is really wearing a 3T in rtw. I think I probably could have made her a size 3 in this pattern although the shoulder fit is perfect. It's the tiniest bit short on her but she's tall.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdfpiMF4IhGmKXV7_EUVntj7ounpTHa33AYwcUCFw-Wr5S6KAYxpVRo4aXvZkf94Cf06z36P3_O5a-e5yhzWSHWtVGozqrG_qPLMwbB46dYG1OyR1WzbkyPQUm_8-pM4Z8kERblnV8CfPN/s1600/ChristmasJumper3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdfpiMF4IhGmKXV7_EUVntj7ounpTHa33AYwcUCFw-Wr5S6KAYxpVRo4aXvZkf94Cf06z36P3_O5a-e5yhzWSHWtVGozqrG_qPLMwbB46dYG1OyR1WzbkyPQUm_8-pM4Z8kERblnV8CfPN/s1600/ChristmasJumper3.jpg" /></a></div>
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Fabric Used: A very lightweight printed corduroy from fabric.com. The fabric is adorable and I bought one yard a few months ago with the intention of making Jane something for Christmas. It was easy to sew.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhOyUJQGC-Qjg1L5KNfw2d0lPjZTXH1hBbnkc0Zcr4HzhERWjTX8gWg9ZqhD6YWrfW7zuRUEvtD5GX8e1zFvjzjdY6ElYklMyz1Dp0OpsHms12orgJt-lmU7XyGxZuPuY4GAkRbcmeh0yw/s1600/ChristmasJumper1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhOyUJQGC-Qjg1L5KNfw2d0lPjZTXH1hBbnkc0Zcr4HzhERWjTX8gWg9ZqhD6YWrfW7zuRUEvtD5GX8e1zFvjzjdY6ElYklMyz1Dp0OpsHms12orgJt-lmU7XyGxZuPuY4GAkRbcmeh0yw/s1600/ChristmasJumper1.jpg" /></a></div>
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<i>Sweet, but still blurry!</i></div>
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Alterations/Deviations: I omitted the zipper at the back and did a keyhole closure instead. Way easier than putting in a zipper. But her hair does get caught in the button. Maybe I need a different button?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNwUiiMB-AjkAYmoYfIkOPfz5j7KXTNFPQG4-mlhB_ynX0CmsbVwcAy8G9Y26LUmY_WRGL8z4yjIor99_I2VbwI_Lrh7QOCedMNsOR5Mj3bkX0qLBywFq3YUWoSeRU2GlA4V8btvN5Fgsk/s1600/ChristmasJumper2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNwUiiMB-AjkAYmoYfIkOPfz5j7KXTNFPQG4-mlhB_ynX0CmsbVwcAy8G9Y26LUmY_WRGL8z4yjIor99_I2VbwI_Lrh7QOCedMNsOR5Mj3bkX0qLBywFq3YUWoSeRU2GlA4V8btvN5Fgsk/s1600/ChristmasJumper2.jpg" /></a></div>
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Likes/Dislikes: I really love everything about it. And Jane likes it, too, but just because of those pockets. I spent some time sewing those pockets. Probably more time sewing the pockets than the rest of the dress. The elastic in the hem is what makes the dress so adorable. She has worn it quite a few times since I made it already. I sewed it all in one day right before her picture day at school.</div>
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Conclusion: Cute little dress for a preschooler. I'm filing this pattern away for summer. I can see making it again, for sure.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoWC3zDpZqGXp4tEuw7Zg3ezsZaLpZQCvqDUbthroEHDkdSQRB0prPk19uAG8tM_NepSxKp5UzQlxKQ7zYqO8sAQ3jah0xMtxY2VtaGNNpF0R7B1uvMe165Xwn61DyA1YLjK4M0dLLCHDQ/s1600/ChristmasJumper5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoWC3zDpZqGXp4tEuw7Zg3ezsZaLpZQCvqDUbthroEHDkdSQRB0prPk19uAG8tM_NepSxKp5UzQlxKQ7zYqO8sAQ3jah0xMtxY2VtaGNNpF0R7B1uvMe165Xwn61DyA1YLjK4M0dLLCHDQ/s1600/ChristmasJumper5.jpg" /></a></div>
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Merry Christmas!</div>
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liza janehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16916364137307894200noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6560246728115023530.post-76457229862297345212015-11-28T21:10:00.000-05:002015-11-28T21:10:19.514-05:00A Cape<br />
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This might be the most ridiculous thing I've made. A sweatshirt cape. This all started when I made <a href="http://lizajanesews.blogspot.com/2015/10/i-no-like-it.html">that cape for Jane</a> (that she hates). I really wanted one in my size. My original plan was just to make something super simple like Jane's. But then it morphed in to something more elaborate. So now I have a fully lined, hooded cape complete with toggles and a zipper. But still all in a sweatshirt knit! Like I said, it's kind of ridiculous but I really like it. There are some major flaws, of course. Mainly because I sort of made things up when I got to the closures. But I'm trying not to be bothered by them. And sweatshirt knit is not exactly the right sort of fabric for outerwear like this. But I think it works.</div>
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Pattern Description: <a href="http://www.simplicity.com/p-6476-misses-cape.aspx">New Look 6073</a>. Misses cape in two lengths with different closure variations. Adding toggles are actually in the pattern instructions but the zipper and zipper shield are not. I made them up at the last minute. I've never used a New Look pattern before but this one looked like it had everything I needed and was simple. It seems to be an old pattern and there are quite a few reviews online, which is always helpful.</div>
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Pattern Sizing: XS-XL. I made a small which is a size below my measurements on the size chart. I sized down after reading reviews that it runs big. The size small definitely does not feel big on me and I can't imagine that the M would be much bigger. I probably could have made a M and been fine.</div>
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Fabric Used: Sweatshirt fleece for the outer fabric and some sort of mystery knit for the lining. The mystery knit is one of those that's fused to some sort of backing. It's all polyester. I found it at Joann's. I originally wasn't going to line this so I could enjoy the fuzzy side of my sweatshirt fleece. But after sewing together the shell I decided it needed more weight. So I went out in search of lining. On a side note, in the photo above you can see I shortened <a href="http://lizajanesews.blogspot.com/2015/11/boring-sewing.html">one of my tops from my last post</a> and I think it looks so much better.</div>
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Alterations/Deviations: From the reviews (and pattern piece) I could see that the hood was <i>huge. </i>Like crazy costume-y huge. I folded out a <i>four inch</i> horizontal tuck to get rid of some of the enormousness. I kept all the width, though because I didn't want to mess with the neckline seam. I think it made the hood a much more reasonable size. Can you imagine four more inches of height on that hood? Other than that, I didn't make any other changes except for the closures. One pattern reviewer noted that the curve of the shoulder seam is pretty drastic and I agree. But I think it sits on my broad shoulders just right. Oh, and I put a drawstring in the hood like I did on Jane's cape. I thought it would help me cinch in the hood in case it was still too big.</div>
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The closures are where I sort of made it up. I wasn't originally going to add toggles. I was just going to do a zipper. But after seeing toggles in the instructions I decided I wanted both. I sewed the zipper in between the shell and lining, which was easy to do. But after sewing in the zipper I decided that I needed a zipper shield. Actually, I'm not sure if I should call it a shield since it's on top of the zipper and not underneath it. Anyway, I wanted a flap over the zipper. I added it on after the fact and that is why my toggles aren't centered. There wasn't any way to center them afterwards. So you'll notice my toggles are closer to one princess seam on one side. Ah well. If I had thought it through, I would have made one front piece wider than the other to compensate. Hopefully it's not too obvious. I ended up stitching on my toggle patches with a straight stitch and leaving the edge raw. I like the way it looks except I didn't trim my interfacing on the patches smaller and now you can see the edges of the interfacing, too. I may go in and trim it down but I think I might see how it washes first. You can still see my red marking pencil in this photo. Hope that washes out, too. I found the cord at the fabric store and had the toggles in my stash. I think my cord should be tiny bit shorter so the toggles close tighter, but it's close enough.</div>
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Likes/Dislikes: It's definitely something different. I think I'll wear it on the weekends when I don't need to use my arms much. Ha! You can see me illustrate below how useless the arm slits are. Not a lot of mobility in a cape but they are fun to wear. It's actually pretty warm, too, with the two layers of heavy knit. I didn't want to stitch the hem but I had to. The lining is stitched all the way around and there was no way to get any sort of crisp hem in sweatshirt fabric. So I top stitched around the bottom with a zig zag stitch. It's alright.</div>
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Conclusion: I can't see myself making another cape any time soon, but if I did I wouldn't hesitate to use the same pattern. It would be even nicer in a proper coating fabric.</div>
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liza janehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16916364137307894200noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6560246728115023530.post-55178246405870447512015-11-22T22:18:00.000-05:002015-11-22T22:18:43.767-05:00Boring Sewing<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I am a little embarrassed that I am even writing this blog post. Actually, not that I'm writing this blog post, but that I actually took pictures of all of these this afternoon. Prepared to be amazed! I made a bunch of slouchy tees again. This time I used <a href="http://www.simplicity.com/p-12416-miss-and-plus-size-knit-sportswear.aspx">Simplicity 1071</a> and I believe it deserves mention because it is a great and easy pattern. Which is really why I'm writing this post.<br />
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Pattern Description: The pattern is an easy to sew sportswear pattern. I made the top, obviously. I'm kind of intrigued by the vest/cardigan. The top really is just a bunch of rectangles with maybe a little shaping at the sleeve. I haven't sewn Grainline's Hemlock tee, but it looks just the same to me. I know that the Hemlock tee is free, but I have come to the realization that I absolutely loathe taping together pdf patterns. Nothing will stop me from sewing faster than having to tape a pdf together. I think that's also another reason I use a lot of Big 4 patterns. And they are cheap and readily available where I am.<br />
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Pattern Sizing: XXS- XXL. Big size range. I made a small. My bust measurement is actually in between a small and medium. Not that sizing is a big issue with this pattern.<br />
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Fabric Used: Lots of different knits! My first black and white (super long) version was done in a super cheap rayon knit. Next, I used a grey quilted sweatshirt knit that I found at Joann's, believe it or not. It actually has batting quilted in between layers so it's warm. The grey and black striped version is a cotton/spandex knit that wrinkles like crazy. The pea green version is a silky bamboo knit. And the navy stripe is a heavy ponte knit.<br />
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Alterations/Deviations: I changed the length on almost every version, adding length. The only version that is close to the original hem length of the pattern is the grey and black striped tee. I only added two inches to that one. I wanted all of these to be super long and slouchy. However, after looking at photos I realize that these are not the most flattering tees I own. That's ok. They are not supposed to be. I may shorten the black and white printed version, though. Or at least get rid of the longer back. I also added side seam splits to several versions just because it seemed appropriate. The navy striped version has extra deep side splits and I like them a lot.<br />
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Likes/Dislikes: I like the neckline on this tee. It's as close to perfect as it gets. Not to wide and not to high. It's the perfect depth. I did not use the neckband pattern piece, though. Actually, I truly have made six versions of this pattern. The first version I made was done in a textured knit and I used the neckband pattern piece. It was too short for the textured knit I used (not a lot of stretch) so I ditched it in all subsequent versions. For all my other versions, I sewed the neckband on, stretching as I sewed except for the last two inches or so. Then I measured and sewed the ends of the neckband together before sewing it on to the neckline the rest of the way. That way I didn't need to guess at length depending on what type of knit I was using. It was a little fiddly, but I prefer that to sewing on a neckband that isn't the right length. I still might try and fix my original wadder but I am not inclined to unpick stitching in that textured knit. I can't remember if sleeve bands are part of the pattern or not, but I used them on all versions. I guesstimated length on the sleeve bands, too. I leaned toward a little tighter to keep my sleeves up<br />
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Here's a photo of all the different neckbands. I used self fabric for most, but used a grey rib knit for the quilted version and a navy jersey for the ponte version. It was good practice to do all these neckbands in different knits. The rayon jersey and bamboo seemed to work the best and lay the flattest. The navy jersey with the ponte knit is all sorts of wavy. The grey and black version is not the best either since I cut on the cross grain.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3OCL1YFlVwhTZs8yzYYKD-3qrXYKFinzkD_ZQywnK7vXS-HScz2HKL8_T23TwzkECnh0uaETg12dfSs4o7KY3b1D_kWAMOQcBS9fJJZv2B99qgCAf87zG5qj2bwn7vsFIOaKx4dBgZYMp/s1600/Rectangles7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3OCL1YFlVwhTZs8yzYYKD-3qrXYKFinzkD_ZQywnK7vXS-HScz2HKL8_T23TwzkECnh0uaETg12dfSs4o7KY3b1D_kWAMOQcBS9fJJZv2B99qgCAf87zG5qj2bwn7vsFIOaKx4dBgZYMp/s1600/Rectangles7.jpg" /></a></div>
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Conclusion: Wow, I wrote a lot more than I thought I would about this simple pattern. Great, easy pattern, if slouchy tees are your thing :) I think I'm done making knit tees at this point. These definitely filled a gap in my cold weather wardrobe, so I'm pleased with them. And they have all been worn in non-stop rotation since I've made them. But it's time to make something a little more difficult, I think! Winter coat, maybe....<br />
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<br />liza janehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16916364137307894200noreply@blogger.com17