Friday, November 29, 2013

Catching Up and lots of Pattern Testing


As per usual, I've been sewing up a storm but not blogging!  So I thought I would catch you all up on my latest projects.  I've been doing a lot of pattern tests lately.  It's fun, gives me a goal and a deadline, apparently things I need to stay motivated, plus I'm helping out fellow sewists and designers.  So here are some highlights!

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 
Ok, that's enough for today.  I have so much more to show you but now I have to go peruse the Black Friday deals.  Most of these pattern shops are having spectacular sales today and this weekend.  Go check them out! 

Monday, November 4, 2013

Pattern Anthology's Winter Wonderland Collection

 


You guys, I don't know how this happened, but I got to test not 1 or 2 or 3, but 4 of Pattern Anthology's Winter Wonderland Collection.  First up is the Holly Pants, designed by Andrea of Go To Patterns.  These pants were originally made for B in a size 4.  They were a little too loose and long on her, so I tried them on S, and whadda ya know, they fit her perfectly.  I think this had something to do with the fabric that I chose--a really soft brushed cotton with silver thread running throughout.  Although not a stretch fabric, there is a lot of give in the looser weave.  I love the pleats and tapered legs, the belt loops and flat front and elasticized back waist.  So stylish and comfy at the same time.    

Next up is the Sweet Bonnie Top from Shwin Designs.  In the process of testing this top, I actually made two, one in interlock knit and the other in rayon challis.  B is wearing the knit version.



Honestly, I just can't resist a peter pan collar.  The back has an exposed zipper that gives this top a modern flair.


Here's the woven version that I made for S.  She didn't like the top at first, because, gasp, there was no pink or purple in sight.  It took about a day, but she came around eventually.  



And one of my favorite items that I've ever made, this is the Amarylis Dress by Blank Slate Patterns.  I just happened to have this black and white gingham taffeta in my stash.  The construction of this dress is absolute genius.   And bonus,  it's totally reversible!  If there is such a thing as perfection, this pattern is it for me.



I love the back equally as much as the front.


Ok, back to Shwin Designs.  When Shauna asked for volunteers to sew up the size 8 for the Johnny B Good Hoodie, I had to give it a try.  It's such a cool shirt, and surprisingly easy.  The hood, the cuffs, the shoulder placket, I just love all the details.

I made this for my nephew.  He's such a cool dude in his hoodie.




Well that's it!  You can find the Winter Wonderland Collection here.  There are 8 patterns altogether; the complete collection comes out to be $5 per pattern, a really great deal for all the mix and match options you get.  Since the tops have both long and short sleeve options, and the Holly Trousers also can be worn as shorts, these patterns really will carry you through all the seasons.

Phew, it was so much fun sewing up these patterns.  Thanks to the designers for such an awesome collection and for letting me be a small part of the process.