What I Wore on Christmas - V1835

 

I have just a few more 2024 projects that I'll post before moving on to my 2025 sewing.  This lounge outfit was actually the last project I made in 2024.  

This was my Christmas outfit.  I was glad to host Christmas day.  I enjoy having my family over, and we had a festive time.  

There isn't much to review with this outfit; because I made it before in 2022.  Here is the link to that review.   

There are just a few small changes that I made for this version:  

• I ruched the lower left side and the lower sleeve.  
• If you plan to do the cold shoulder, you'll need to adjust the length of the left sleeve by a few inches.  
• I lengthen the sleeve and pant leg.

No other changes.  

My fabric was purchased at JoAnn's Fabrics.  I pre-washed and dry it.  It came from the dryer soft and ready to cut into.  Sewing was a breeze.  I really like how quickly this  pattern sews up. 

This is a very comfortable set to wear around the house.  Lately, I'm enjoying the "cute" lounge clothes.  There may be a few more of these sets added to my comfy wardrobe. Lol

Happy Sewing!

C

Robe and Pajama Set - The Perfect Family Christmas Gift

Christmas wouldn't be Christmas without handmade pj's.  Every year I make pajama pants for members of my family.  This year was no different.  The first set of five flannel pj's were made, boxed and wrapped before I realized I didn't take any pictures.   Oh well, I made them using the same pattern used last year.  The difference was the fabric prints.  Like always, they were well received by all.  It's becoming an annual tradition to make them for my closest love ones.  A very easy gift to make and they are loved by all.

This year I decided to do something a little different.  Instead of the lone pj pants, I made three sets: one that included a robe, top and pants and the other two a top, pants and head wrap.  For each set I used a combination of various patterns.  

The first, is the Pattern Union Molly T-shirt, Simplicity S2476 robe, and Simplicity S2290 pants.  The combination of the three is the perfect gift.

This is the first time I've posted a review of the  Molly Tee.  I had made it once before, but didn't blog and share any photos of my t-shirt.  It is a basic t-shirt pattern with the shoulder seam 1.5 inches forward so it's visible from the front.  The pattern comes in multiple cup sizes and with three different sleeve lengths. I made the short sleeve version with the appropriate cup size for my sister.  It comes in sizes 6 to 26.

Simplicity M2290 The pants super easy.  One piece pant pattern with an elasticized waist that sews up in a flash.  I made this one dozens of times. The pattern comes in sizes XS to XL.

McCall M2476 This is an oldie, but it is still in print.  I purchased my copy in 2003.  The robe is a typical bath robe with patch pocket, front band and belt.  It comes in sizes small to xx-large.

All three coordinates look like the photo/drawing on the pattern.  The instructions were typical and easy to follow.  Nothing confusing.

My likes:

• Molly T-shirt. I love the multiple cup sizes and the wide range of sizes available. The shoulder seam and the sleeve lengths are great too.  
• Pants. What's not to like about them.  They are the perfect quick and easy pj pants. You can make dozens of them in a variety of lengths and colors.
• Robe.  I like that it is a basic robe that can be made up in a variety of fabrics.  And that it is easy to make.  

All three coordinates were made in one evening.  This set was actually made Christmas Eve.  These patterns are great for beginners.

No dislikes.

All fabrics were purchased from Fabric Mart Fabrics.  I actually purchased them for myself about three years ago.  I decided to make it a gift instead of buying more fabric.

The robe is Mint Polyester/Lycra Jacquard Double Knit 60" wide.  It is springy and has a pebble texture.  The pajamas is Green/Sky Blue/White Cotton/Lycra Palm Leave Clusters Print Jersey with a smooth hand.  Both fabrics were great to work with.

I made no changes to the robe.  I literally made it straight out of the envelope.  For the Molly t-shirt, I made a swayback adjustment with a center back seam. For the pants I just added length to them and made a cuff at the bottom.

To date I've made the Molly T-shirt four times.  It's a winner and a TNT for sure. ;-)  The pants already a TNT.  And the robe I'd make it again too.    All three coordinates are highly recommended for all level sewists.  

I'm glad I decided a make a complete pajama and robe set.  My sister was very happy too.  She couldn't wait to wear them and to make a request for more pj sets for like right now.  Lol  This set is a winner all the way around.  A quick and easy sew for me and an extremely happy recipient. 

Parting Shot:  This is Bella.  My sister's new pup and the newest member of the Burwell chan.  Bella was about 2.5 months at the time of this picture.

Unexpected Gifts

Sometimes it takes me awhile to incorporate my Christmas gifts into my other belongings.  Last week was the second phase of this process.  I'd put all my small bagged treasures in one area of my room to look at and to admire after everything had settle back to normal.

I received three little golden bags, each containing a handcrafted beaded insect.  These treasurers were made by one of my daughter's good friends, Melissa. Her gifts were totally unexpected.

You see Melissa is currently unemployed and has struggled with finding a job.  You would think that this smart cookie, who graduated from the University of Illinois at Chicago would have no trouble finding a job.  Unfortunately, that is not the case.

But the lack of money did not stop Melissa from spreading the Christmas cheer.  With seed beads, she delightfully weaved many gifts to give at Christmas time.  I'm one of those lucky recipients.  And I had to share this act of kindness.  So many times, people are sad during the holidays because they are unable to give gifts.  Melissa and others, do found creative ways to make their own.  These gifts are the most priceless.  Simply because they took the time and effort with little resource to found a way to give something special.  I thought it necessary to share this act of kindness. 

I decided to make mine little bugs wearable art.  I'll add some felt and a brooch pin to the underside and proudly wear them on my jacket lapel or on the shoulder.

Anyway, like I said, I just wanted to share this act of kindness by Melissa.

Have a great day!
C 

Chanel - A Fresh Take on Finger-less Gloves - Inspiration

 

 
 

Chanel is one of my favorite designers. I just love looking at the beautiful details of the garments and accessories that are post of the Vogue Magazine website. The designs are a great source of inspiration and always leave me wondering what will pattern companies draw from them. In many instances, they have already published a very simple version of some incredibly beautiful design element or garment that graces the runway.

 

 In this case, I noticed the finger-less gloves on almost every models' hands in the Chanel Fall/Winter 2016 runway. As I scrolled through each picture, I grow more and more fond of the finger-less glove. Some had bracelets on top, other were ruched. All were quite beautiful and helped make the outfit complete.

Simplicity recently published 8273, which covers the a portion of the thumb. While Simplicity 3942, published several seasons ago has the thumb exposed. Both patterns can help make some beautiful versions of the finger-less glove. These is an easy sewing project that offers all sorts of opportunities to make unique gloves. Great for Christmas gifts.

 Happy Sewing!

 C

Christmas Holiday Sewing - Pt V Mad About Plaid

This is the review of my Holiday sewing. This is an easy one. Two Simplicity patterns 2758 and 2310, one outfit. DD and I decided to do a few zany pictures for this review.

Pattern Description: Vest (2310) Misses' tunic, tie belt and vest. Skirt (2758) Misses' pleated skirt in two lengths, half circle skirt and shirt.

Pattern Sizing: 6- 20. I used 10/12

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? The vest did. I omitted the pockets and length the skirt.

Were the instructions easy to follow? Yes, No problems.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? Both patterns selected by DD. For me - The vest is a little too boxy.

Fabric Used: Wool blend from Hancock.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:
- No changes to the vest.






- Omitted the pockets on skirt
- Length the skirt
- Added lining to the skirt

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? Yes and yes.

Conclusion: Both patterns were quite easy to sew. A beginner could sew them with no problems.




Okay, That's it for the Holiday sewing!

Parting Shot: On Tuesday, I almost finished a Simplicity Jacket 2452A. But I didn't have enough buttons.

Christmas Holiday Sewing - Part IV Burda 7708

Pictured incomplete - I needed to add one more button.

This is the hardest of all the Christmas sewing reviews. I made so many changes, not to mention several "do-overs" as I sewed this coat.

Let me first, speak on how this project came to be. In early March, my sister asked me to make her a coat. We shopped at Fishman's for the coating, beautiful stuff I might add. She had to special order it as they didn't have it on the store.

My DS chose Burda 7708. This pattern is rated easy, but with the many changes it became a bit of a challenge. Due to style changes and weight of the fabric.

Pattern Description: Burda did not provide a lot on the description. It's labelled as loose fitting, ample. Additionally, it is an unlined jacket with collar and hood variations, patch pockets, and darts.

Pattern Sizing: 18-32; I used 18/20.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

No, I made multiple changes using view A. The first was to extend it to coat length.

Were the instructions easy to follow?

Before I started, I did read over the instructions and didn't find anything difficult about them.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?

This pattern was selected by my sister. It surfice to say she like the design of the jacket and wanted it made into a coat. For me, after seeing Annette's version, I'm thinking about making view C for myself.

No dislikes.


Fabric Used: A very nice wool coating from Fishman's Fabric.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: Oh Boy, Here comes the difficult part. There were so many changes. I'm hoping I can explain them all. Let me start with the easiest one:

- Added about seven inches to the length.
- View A called for a few bands (strips of fabric over certain parts of the coat) shoulder and center back.
- Eliminated the "wrong side facing at the center front, pocket, and hood.
- Lined the pockets
- Instead of one button and two snaps. I added 4 more buttons and elminated the snaps.
- Eliminated the top stitches

- This is where it gets interesting; The following changes and alterations were "figure out" as I sew. As a result, I had to rip out and try again before getting it right. The first was the lining of the hood. The fabric was so thick and difficult to sew. Especially multiple layers. For the hood, I eventually attached the lining by sewing it rights sides together around the center front, leaving the neck edge free. Then trimmed the coat seam allowance, pressed it, turned right sides out, pressed hem (1"). Finally machine hem to the inside of the hood to create a polished finish without the bulk of multiple layers of coat fabric.

- Adding lining - Cutting the sleeves, hood, and back was easy. I just cut them the same as the coat. The front was another story. Because I wasn't going to follow the design of View A, I used the front pattern for view C. It includes a facing. To start, I cut the front lining about two inches beyond the end of the facing. Next, I sewed double fold seam binding along the facing of the coat. Then pressed the binding to the underside leaving the center fold visible. Next, I carefully place the lining beneath the facing making sure it was even along the neck edge and the sides of the coat. Then I pinned the facing to it. Finally sewing the facing to the lining (stopping about 1 1/2 inches from the bottom for proper hemming.). From this point I was able to sew the rest of the lining with no problem. It's not my recommendation to practice this "method"; and I plan research and teach myself the "standard method". Whatever that is. But this seemed to work.




Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?

I think I will make View C for myself.

Conclusion:

Although this is a fairly simple coat to make, this was an interesting project for me. I learned a few things; I need to learn a few more. ;-)I hope my sisters enjoys the coat. I think it turned out pretty nice.

Parting Shot: I also made two tops for my DS using Simplicity 4076. Here's one of them.

Christmas Holiday Sewing - Part III Simplicity 2603 & 4076

The ever so popular drapey cardigan is what I selected to gift my sister Mona. This is one of 2009 favorite patterns. It's been reviewed multiple times on Patternreview.com. And I know why..., it's so attractive and very easy to sew. I have another (chocolate brown) ready to sew for me.

Simplicity 2603

Pattern Description: Misses knit top and cardigan wrap.

Pattern Sizing: XXS to XL. I used XLarge.

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

Were the instructions easy to follow? Simple as 1, 2, 3. It took less than two hours to make.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? Everything. No dislike. Lately, I'm very pleased with my projects.

Fabric Used: Hatchi Rayon Blend Jersey from Fabric.com

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: None.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? Yes, tomorrow.

Conclusion: This is a great cardigan. I'm also going to try the top. If you haven't try it and this is a style you like, please give this pattern a try.

Christmas Holiday Sewing - Part II Simplicity 9326

The mock turtleneck is much like the mock turtleneck of BWOF 9/10, #121. So I followed the design of the turtleneck to create a clean finish to the 2000 Simplicity version. This pattern fits DD well that made this one easy to make for my sister as well.

Simplicity 9326

Pattern Description: Misses' Jacket or Coat, Pants, Skirt and Knit Top. Fitted pullover knit top A has funnel neck and three-quarter length sleeves. Semi-fitted jacket B or coat C has pointed collar, long sleeves and front Velcro closure. Semi-fitted pants D and skirt E worn 1 inch below waistline have side zipper and side slits. Suitable for Overlock/serger.

Pattern Sizing: 4 - 18. I used 10 - 12.


Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Pretty much. I added length to sleeves and top. Then I finished the funnel (mock turtleneck) same as Summerset.

Were the instructions easy to follow? Yes. No problems there. I was able to finish one top under an hour.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? "We" like it. Nothing to dislike.


Fabric Used: I ordered several colors of the Hatchi stretch rayon blend jersey from Fabric.com.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: Lengthen or shorten sleeves. Lengthen top. Changed the design of the funnel to resemble the BWOF top.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? Yep. This is a great way to build the winter wardrobe. You can wear these nice top with jeans as well as suits.

Conclusion: Both DD and my sister love the tops. And I'm sure they will get a lot of use out of them.

Christmas Holiday Sewing - Part I Butterick 3521

This will be the first review of several sewing projects completing during the month of December. Most of them were given as Christmas gifts to my sisters and my DD. It took me forever to decide what to sew for each sister. It is not often that I sew for them. So I wanted with gifts to be a little more than ordinary.

This first review is of a little outfit for my baby sister, Tricey. Here goes.

Butterick 3521

Pattern Description: Misses' Top - Pullover top has neckline variations. A: semi-fitted, long sleeves with slit/elastic hem. A, B, narrow hem B: Bias, halter neck with drape, tie ends. C: collar, collar band, stitched hem, purchased button.

Pattern Sizing: 6 - 22. I used size 12.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Exactly.

Were the instructions easy to follow? The instructions were very simple and easy to follow.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? Everything about this view is likable. It's fast and easy, two pieces; a stylish classic; and figure flattering. Nothing to dislike.

Fabric Used: I used a stretch velvet from Hancock. I love the hand of it and the deep rich color.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: No design changes. But I added a few inches to the length of the top and sleeves. My baby sister is taller than I am.

I had about 3/4 yard left so a made a matching skirt. No pattern used. It's finished with elastic at the top a small hem at the bottom. Simple.




Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? Yes, I will probably sew view A again. This is the third time I've sewn it. So you know I really like it. I'm also considering making view B.

Conclusion: This is a quick, but stylish top that can be made up in a variety of knit fabrics.

Merry Christmas!

Oh, Hallowed, Hallowed Christmas

Oh, blessed, blessed Christmas,
The stars were shining bright,
But there was one outstanding
Upon that holy night.
Its radiant beams were shining
Upon a lowly manger bed
Wherein there lay the Christ Child,
A pillow of hay for His head.

Oh, glorious, glorious Christmas,
The night of Jesus' birth;
Oh, hallowed, hallowed Christmas
When God came down to earth.
Forever we'll adore Thee...
Christ, the one tru light,
Resting in the promise
Of that most holy night.

by Loise Pinkerton Fritz

Merry Christmas to all. Especially those who read my blog. Thank you and God bless.
Cennetta

It's Beginning to Look alot Like Christmas...,

Warning heavy picture content

On one of the coldest, snowiest days of the year, my family got together for our annual kick off festivities for the Christmas season. The theme of this gathering was "Making Christmas Wreath".

Years ago Martha Stewart did an episode on decorating for Christmas. At that time, I thought it was such a cool idea to make your own decorations. It makes the holiday season extra special. My sister, Rochelle, was the host (not pictured) of this super fun event. We had lots of food, old school music, laughs and loads of fun. Party time: 3:00pm, December 12th.

When we arrived, the air was filled with delicious smells, Mmmm, Mmmm, good home cooked food (I bought a bucket of chicken and sparkling grape juice). In the kitchen, the table was set with all types of goodies to make wreaths. The house was filled with laughter, good cheer, and Lionel Richie and the Commodores in the back ground. What fun.



Everyone, except the young men of the family made wreaths. The overly, energetic young men preferred rough housing in the family room in between eating double portions of all the food.



Christopher Ryan the birthday young man (14)



Wreath Making -

Domino putting it together

Finished



Rochelle's wreath finished

Tricey - The Candy Wreath



Lolo - Kind of Traditional



Me - Fluffing the wreath while thinking about placement of decorations

Finished - Traditional -- Less is More

Testing, testing, 1,2,3 ...,

Finally, some practice videos (Wreath Making) for future sewing tutorials. Enjoy!
C