It's Too Cold To Breathe - Simplicity S9388

 

My Goodness! It's been too cold to breathe outside.  Last week was so  cold with many days at sub-zero temperatures.  This week's forecast is no better.  We were hoping that Saturday would be "not as cold".  No such luck.  In fact, it had started to snow as we headed outside to take the pictures.  My goal was to get it done so  we braved the cold to finish this chapter of the shacket.  Once outside, it felt like I didn't have on a coat.  Luckily, we were only outside for a few minutes.

Early last year, Rhonda and I decided to do a challenge in time for the HCC fashion show in May.   She gifted me the pink wool.  We used Simplicity S9388.  This pink version is my third shacket using this pattern.  

I decided to elevate the "look" a bit by installing a full lining and adding beads to the pocket flaps.  I think it turned out well.

Construction changes:

• Because I added lining, I hemmed the shacket like a basic lined coat.  I added interfacing to the hem for stability.  Tip:  I used my cardboard guide to get a nice even hem.

• I used lining fabric for the under side of the flap to reduce bulk.

• Adjusted the size of the cuffs and pleats on the sleeve.  The cuffs are still too wide and the sleeve is really to full.  But both things I can live with.

The making of this shacket was a fun project. This shade of pink isn't the best pink for my skin tone.  It looks great on my sister.  So, I decided to gift her this shacket.

I crocheted a slouchy beanie to wear with it.

Parting Shots:  The first two shackets that I made a few years ago.  You can see all of my shacket post here. 

Happy Sewing!

C

The Thimble

Sewing by hand..., Is it still a thing that sewists do a lot of? Or is it a sewing skill that is less preferred and is rarely used? 

A few weeks ago, a longtime friend asked me if I had ever used a blind hem foot? I had to admit that i had not. I revealed that my refer to hand sew invisible hems. After my answer,  we continued to just talk about sewing and other things. But later that day, I pulled out the many, many sewing machine feet that I own, thinking I should try it. Soon, I pushed them aside and started to pull out my thimbles. I have a few functional and for show ones. 

I actually love handstitching. Beading is a favorite.

One of the first things that I teach young sewing students is some basic handstitching. I also teach them that you can make an entire tailored suit by hand, but you can not make one by machine. 

One of our first projects is to make a needle book by hand. A few examples.

My second question is, what are your thoughts on handstitching? Machine vs. Hand sewing? 

Happy Sewing!

C

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