Ribbed Summer Knit - Simplicity S9757

Good day everyone,

Today's post is an outfit for my DD.  She really liked how the previous version turned out and wanted another for this summer.  So here is the second version.  The only differences are that I made view C instead of D and the fabric is a ribbed knit.

All of the review information is here. 

So that's basically it for this post.  As for the sewing experience, it was the same expect for the type of fabric. I guess I should give some descriptive information about that.  This fabric was another purchase from Hobby Lobby.  It has 35-40% stretch crosswise. It has a soft hand and is fluid, not stiff like some ribbed knits.  

Happy Sewing!

C

Getting Back To Blogging

I can't believe how quickly the time has past.  The entire summer gone just like that.  I hate that I haven't gotten better with posting my adventures on a consistent basis.  These days, many 2000 bloggers are moving towards creating videos on YouTube or TikTok.  It's another way to entertain, teach, and inspire.  I'm not there yet.  So for now I'll keep trying to post on blogger.  

It been a great summer.  I have lots of posts and sewing projects to share.  This weekend I'll probably start with a few of my simpler projects and a few tutorials.

Happy Sewing!

C

My DD in Simplicity S9757

Pattern Description:  Fitted tops have cap sleeves, high mock neckline and optional ruched sides.  Skirt with elasticized waistband and figure-hugging fit comes in midi length with side slit or mini length with ruched detail. 

Pattern Sizing:  The pattern is available is sizes XS to XXL.  I used size medium with modifications for my daughter.  I made views B and D

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?  

The instruction were a piece of cake.  Super easy.  

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?  

I like the high mock neckline cropped top.  I knew my DD would like it.  I/we also like the ruched sides of the skirt.  No dislikes.

Fabric Used:  

A modal jersey knit from JoAnn's Fabrics.  I love the soft touch and the color.  JoAnn's has a variety of colors available in this jersey.  

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:  

My adjustments were minimal.  My DD's needs basic adjustments:  a square shoulder and slight swayback adjustments.  Nothing more is needed for this pattern.   

I made one change in the construction.  Instead of using bias tape to finish the armholes, I cut bias strips 1.75" wide and the length of the armhole minus an inch easing in the difference between the "facing" and the actual armhole.

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

Yes and yes.  My DD already asked for another outfit, View A and C.

Conclusion: 

We both really like how this outfit turned out.  It was easy and she liked it a lot.

Two for One - Vogue V1452

This was two projects in one.  The first was to make a wearable muslin and the second was to end with an outfit close to a "perfect fit".  I came close to the close to a perfect fit. The second time should be a charm. Lol  The top could use a little more tweaking, but I think this was the last time I'll use the top pattern.  As for the pants, it is a basic palazzo pant that can be made over and over again to complement other tops, tunics, and dresses.  

Wearable Muslin:  Aqua Green

Final Version:  Raspberry 

Pattern Description:  Misses' top and pants:  close-fitting, pullover top has mock-bands, shoulder strap, and left front seam and slit.  Wide-legged pants (loose-fitting through hips) have elasticized waistband and side pockets. both have stitched hems.

Pattern Sizing:  This is a Sandra Betzina pattern that uses letters instead of numbers for the sizing.  For the top I used between size E and F.  I did make a swayback adjustment on the second version hoping to resolve the wrinkles across the lower back.  It helped, but didn't completely resolve the issue. I probably should have cut the back into two sections to get better results.  At any rate, it's "good" enough to wear.

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

Were the instructions easy to follow?  The instructions were easy; nothing difficult or confusion in them.  The construction of the outfit was relatively quick and easy too.  

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?  

My like:  

• Knit outfit. Lol
• Ruching on the top.
• The palazzo pants with the separate waist band.  That's a feature that I really love.

Dislikes:

• For this particular fabric and weight, I prefer no pockets.  They really get in the way of having a smooth pant.  If you were to use the pocket, it disfigures the look of the outfit and draws attention to "whatever is in your pocket."  I recommend leaving them out as I did for the second outfit.

Fabric Used:  Both fabrics came from FabricMart Fabrics.  It is a light/medium weight jersey.  Almost opaque, very fluid, has a great drape, and the recovery is okay.  

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:  I made just a few adjustments and tweaks.  For the top I used two sizes E and F where necessary.  The second version, as mentioned before, I attempted to make a swayback adjustment.  It helped a little with the wrinkles.  For the pants I eliminated the pockets and lengthen the pant legs a few inches.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?  I will probably make the pants again.  It is a simple pull-on pant that can complement other toppers.  The top, I probably will not make again.  I do recommend this pattern to others.  It is not a difficult sewing projects.  The ruching/gathering requires a little patience to do.  It's really the hardest step in the construction of the entire garment.

Conclusion:  This is an attractive little summer outfit that goes together quickly.  It's a great look for brunch or a summertime concert.

Happy Sewing!

C

Romantic Floral Dress - Birthday Dress 2022 B6320 and M8090

Hi There!
 
It's seems like forever since I last blog anything! I've been so occupied with other things.  I took a break from my usual sewing and blogging to complete a major goal, which I’ll share at a later date. 
 
Anyway, I'm happy to post a pattern review on my last birthday dress that I finished in September 2022.  A long time ago, right?  There are a few things that encouraged me to write a post.  (1) I was nominated (by two people on Facebook) to post things I've made for a certain number of days.  (2) Lately, I've been thinking a lot about sewing and blogging, and how much I've missed sharing and interacting with fellow sewists.
 
So today I want to review my birthday dress that I made for 2022.  I designed it using the bodice of Butterick B6320 and the skirt of McCall's M8090.  I really enjoy splicing two or three patterns together to come up with an entirely new design.  The bodice of B6320 is really cute, but for this dress I wanted a fuller skirt.  So I chose the tiers from M8090 to complement the bodice.
 
Pattern Description:
 

Butterick B6320 - Misses dress and jumpsuit:  Dress and straight-legged jumpsuit (semi-fitted through hips) have semi-fitted bodice and midriff, raised waist, tie ends, side pockets, armhole bands, and back zipper.  A:  self-lined sleeves B: bias sleeve band. B & C: front pleated pants. Separate pattern pieces for cup sizes.
 
McCall's M8090 - Misses' loose fitting dress has skirt tiers and sleeve variations.  B:  Lace trim.
 
I used B6320 view B bodice.  The bias binding on the sleeve is a really nice detail.  For the skirt of the dress I used the three tiers of M8090, no pockets.
 
Pattern Sizing:

Both patterns come in sizes from 6 to 22.  I used size 16 with modifications.

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

The dress bodice looks like B6320 (View B) and the skirt has the gathered tiered look of M8090.  Together the look is different from either pattern.

Were the instructions easy to follow? What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?

The instructions of both patterns are easy to follow.  Nothing difficult to understand or follow.   

Likes:

• Midriff of the bodice
• Bias binding on the sleeve
• Design of the bodice in general
• Tiered skirt
• Fullness of the skirt

Dislikes:

• As the dress is, I have no dislikes.  This style/design works for me.

Fabric Used:

I purchased the beautiful floral gauze from Mood Fabrics last summer.  It is still available if anyone cares to purchase  it.  Here is the link for the fabric,  This fabric is lovely.  It's perfect for spring/summer.  The fiber content is 100% viscose.  Easy pressing and handling.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:

My design change was to splice the two patterns together to come up with a new design for the dress.

I did do some tweaking of the bodice.  But it wasn't my usual intense slashing to make it fit.  I used the cup D for starters and made my adjustments from there. Other than that, I really didn't make huge adjustments to get a good fit.

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

I will probably use B6320 bodice again.  My plan is to make the dress of M8090.  And I recommend both patterns to others if this is a style that you like.

Conclusion:

I like how my dress turned out.  Each year I make it a point to make myself a birthday dress.  This addition was more like a summer dress, but it was a perfect choice for last September.  It was a very bright and sunny day. More summer like than fall.  

As for the patterns, both are great choices to begin your spring/summer wardrobe.  

Happy Sewing!  It's good to be back blogging and sharing.

Festive Summer Vacay Dress - Simplicity S9598

Pattern Description:  Slim V-neck pullover knit dresses in two lengths have long or short sleeves with cutout back and twist detail.  One view feature contrast layout.

Pattern Sizing:  The pattern is available in two size groupings (6-14) and (16-24).  I used between size 16 and 18.  This is very close fitting and I want just a little ease in the dress.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?  Yes, it did.  I really like the way the dress turned out.

Were the instructions easy to follow?  The instructions were typical and easy to follow.  There was nothing confusing in them.  Of course, I changed a few things.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I like the V-neck, the twist/cutout, and the option to color block the dress.  There was only one dislike; the way the back elastic facing is supposed to be finished.  It did not look good.

Fabric Used:  I used an ITY knit that I purchased from Fabric Mart Fabrics a while ago.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:  There is always something that needs to be adjusted or changed.  Here is my little list:

• Small FBA made that produced a bust dart.  You can barely see it in this print.
• Made a prominent shoulder blade adjustment.  I didn't want the twist to pull too much.
• Selected a length between the two indicated on the pattern.
• 3/4 Sleeve instead of the long sleeve
• Sewed a channel for the elastic to be threaded through.  It looks better than just having the elastic between the skirt and facing.
• Used a twin needle to hem the sleeves and the skirt.
• The neckband was gapping a bit.  I had to make a deeper center front seam to make it fit better.  See pattern pieces showing the blue marking to indicate the new stitching line.  Note:  You must be precise in your stitching making sure both neckbands are stitched the same.  

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?  Of course, I will sew it again.  I don't know when though.  There are so many other dress patterns in my to make pile for 2022.  We will see how it goes. 

Conclusion:  I think this is a great little pattern to make a fun, festive summer dress.  It a good one for all level sewists. 

 

P.S.  I'll post pictures of me wearing soon.  No one available for a photo shoot today. Wink, wink.

Happy Sewing!

C

Daisy Dress McCall M8103

 

Summertime is in full affect here in the mid-west, and it can be challenging to look polished, cool, and comfortable when temperatures are in the upper 90's and the humidity is 95 percent. It feels like a sauna.  So, the best thing is to go with the flow, look your best, and enjoy the summer months while they are here. In no time at all, it will be September, which will usher in another season for us.

My comfort look is soft and floaty. It provides comfort and style for the season. And that is how I feel wearing my latest summer dress.

I used McCall Daisy M8103 to make my latest summer dress.  With the slightest breeze, the skirt dances in the wind.  That is one of the things I love about it.

I purchased the fabric from Joann's a few months ago. They may still have it in stock. It's a cocoa brown guaze type viscose fabric. It is very soft and easy to handle.  There is one small draw back though. It is very loosely woven and has the tendency to "grow" throughout the project. So be careful.

I used size 16 with modifications.  This pattern comes with multiple cups sizes for the upper front. This may save a little time for most sewists. For me I used the D cup. But I hate the one huge dart. It never turns out like intended.  So, I tweaked the pattern a bit and created three darts in the upper front bodice.

There are many qualities that I like about this pattern.  The one that drew me to the pattern is the flounces. Love them.  They do take a lot of time to finish.  I devoted one sewing segment to finishing the hem and attaching the flounces to the waist and hem of the skirt. Another like is how the skirt is attached to the bodice. The faux wrap crosses over the entire front of the body. So there is no worry of "exposure". Wink, wink.  The separate cup size pattern pieces are a plus too. All of these things, in addition to the floaty fabric, made this a loveable sewing experience.

Now, I do have a few dislikes. The expansion of the fabric during the entire project was annoying. I had to keep making adjustments as I went along. Oh yeah, I did make a muslin. The fabric that I used was tightly woven and didn't present the challenge that I experienced with my fashion fabric.  It would be wise to do some stay stitching on some pieces to hold the shape. 

Other changes I made:

• Adjusted the shoulder straps
• Raised the upper front and back armsyce.

I did not lengthen the skirt. But compared to the photo, my skirt is longer on me than the one on the model. Overall, I think my dress looks like the dress on the envelope.  

I'm happy to have this new edition to my wardrobe. And with some restrictions being lifted, I also have something new to wear to upcoming events. Happiness.

This is a great summer dress pattern to try. Be ready to spend some time constructing and finishing the flounces. Other than the fitting this is where I spend the most concentrated time. 

I may make it again. But in the meantime, there are several other dresses I planned to sew this summer. Til next time, enjoy your summer, and I hope you are able to make something that you love.

C

Summertime Fun Dress in Ankara Fabric - Simplicity S8594

Today is the last day of June and it is 98 degrees HOT!  Great time to wear my latest creation, using a red and black, Ankara fabric that I purchased at the Textile Warehouse. I began sewing this dress last Thursday and finished it on Sunday.  

My photographer, DD, was available to take a few pictures of me wearing it this afternoon.   The sun was high and bright.  The heat was on. Lol

This will be a short and sweet review as I don't have pictures of the pattern alterations.  Sorry.  If you check out many of my previous princess fit adjustment makes, you'll get a good idea of the changes I had to make for this pattern. 

Pattern Description:  Misses and Petites with bodice and skirt variations.  The bodice options include a crewneck with slit or a halter, and the skirt can be made straight or flared with pockets.  I made View C with modifications, size 14 graded up. 

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?  Yes, it did.  Of course, I lengthen the skirt and made a few other changes.

Were the instructions easy to follow?  Sorry, I really didn't read the instructions.  I've made this style dress many, many times before.  At a glance, I guess they were typical.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I liked the halter style of the dress.  And I thought it would be a great style for the fabric that I selected.

Fabric Used: I purchased this Ankara fabric from the Textile Warehouse in Chicago on 21st Street.  They have a variety of colors and prints for the reasonable price of about $6.00 per yard.  It is 100 percent cotton.  It also washes and presses very well.  That's something I always appreciate with natural fibers.  I love the print and the vibrant red and black colors.  

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:  I made a ton of changes.

• FBA and graded the pattern up.  When I purchased this pattern, the largest size grouping available at the store was size 14. So, I made it work for me.
• I shortened the straps by 2 inches, much too long for me.
• NOTE:  I forgot to make a sway back adjustment.  Not too bad though.  If I use this bodice again, I'll be sure to do it to remove the excess fabric at the lower back.
• Lengthen the skirt.  Also, I barely had enough fabric for my desired length.  On a few of the lower corners of the skirt, I had to "piece" the corners together.  See picture below to see an example.  You can hardly tell. wink, wink.
• I installed an invisible zipper instead of a regular one, only because I didn't have one in my stash, and I refuse to buy another one. 

Observation:  The bodice is a little low at the underarm.  I'd would bring it up about 1.5 inches for a better fit and look.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?  Yes and yes.  I would consider making it again.  This view, view C, which I like the most.  Also, I recommend it to others.  It's a great little summer dress that is not difficult to make.

Conclusion: I am pleased with how this dress turned out.  The fit is almost perfect. and I really like the combination of the fabric and style.  Great little summer dress that beginners and experienced sewists could make with no problem.

Happy Sewing!

C

Easy Breezy Summer Dress - McCall M7405

 

It is a steamy 102 degrees in the Chicagoland area.  At least where I live.  HOT! HOT!

Summer is definitely here.  So instead of complaining, dress appropriately.  Rayon Guaze from Joann's Fabrics is the perfect match for McCall's M7405 Easy dress.  I could easily have a dozen of these comfy dresses in my wardrobe.  It's perfect for any occasion.   

This pattern has been out for a while.  I never noticed it until my fellow sewists across the Instagram platform started posting their beautiful dresses.  And of course, I had to get on the bandwagon too.  ;-)

McCall's pattern description:  Loose-fitting, sleeveless, pullover dresses have neckline gathers, back neck slit and hemline variations.  C: Belt, and side slit. D: Elasticized waist.

I didn't follow any of the versions as indicated on the envelope.  I did my own thing.  My version is view B with elasticized waist and belt.  I used between large and medium sizes. 

Basically, my dress does look like the drawings "combined". Tee Hee.  This is how I wanted my dress to look.  I often think of patterns as being templates to help me design the project I have invision.

The instructions were super easy, and I did not encounter any confusing steps.

This pattern is very easy to like and very forgiving on the figure.  My likes are it was easy to sew, stylish, and versatile.  I was so excited sewing it together and couldn't wait until I was done.  No dislike to note.  However, I made a few little changes.

One thing I was concerned with was how it would fit in the bust area.  I didn't want to experience any gapping at the lower armhole.  Luckily there wasn't any.  But the armhole was a bit too low.  So, I brought it up about 2 inches.   Also, after I sewed the sides, it was too big in the upper portion of the dress.  I just tweaked it a little until it was right for me.  Another small change I made was the placement of the elastic.  I tied the belt around my waist to act as a marker.  Then I used a mirror and safety pins to mark that location in the back and used needle and thread to run a base stitch around the front.  In the end, my elastic waist placement is very different from the front and back of the dress.  But you cannot tell when I have the dress on.  So, it works for me.  After making the change, I also thought about the placement of the elastic in general as it can be lower or higher depending how you want to style the dress.  The final little change was with the bias tape to create the elastic casing.  I used a strip of fabric to make my own casing to match the dress.

As I stated earlier, my fabric is from JoAnn's Fabrics.  They have a nice selection of cotton guaze in a variety of colors and prints.  I loved this floral print.  It was easy to sew and a great choice for a summer dress.

You know I will sew this dress again.  I like it a lot!  ;-)  It is designed for beginners.  So all level sewists could make it with no problem.  This ends my little pattern review for this one!

Happy Sewing!

Cennetta

Anthropologie So Inspired: It's Spring and Summer Dresses

Dresses, dresses, and more dresses!

It's time for a little dress inspiration.  Spring is already here, and summer is around the corner.  I'm itching to make a pretty dress.  Before I start planning what fabric, style, and color I wanted to see what RTW styles are on the horizon.  Anthropologie has a great selection of the season's best spring and summer looks.  From their posted inventory, I see an entire caribbean vacation wardrobe.  They have beautiful florals, abstract prints and solids of every style and for every shape.  Below are some of the dresses I'd like to have.  But you can take a look at the entire collection that is posted online here.    

Happy Sewing!

C