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

Birthday Dress 2024 0 Simplicity S9820

Bonjour Sewing Friends,

Really quick post on my birthday dress.  I made it a few weeks before leaving for French.  I used Simplicity S9820.  I also used it for the crepe knit dress I made in June.  That project is posted here with all the pattern adjustments and details.  

The challenge for my red, sequin stretch velvet version was sewing through the sequins.  And using a size 16 embroidery sewing machine needle worked just fine.  It enabled me to NOT remove all of the sequins from the stitching path of the needle.  

I purchased my fabric from New Rainbow Fabrics on Roosevelt Road in Chicago.  At the time, they were having a 30 percent off sale.  So I got three yards for under $70.00.  For the facing at the neckline, I used a stretch velvet for a smooth surface against my skin.  Also, I lined it with a simple tricot knit.  So the dress was comfort to wear.

This dress did not take long to make.  Like the first version, it went together smoothly. I eliminated the bust dart by easing in the access fabric along the side.  Also, I needed to take it in a bit.  So, if I use the pattern again, I'll need to reduce my initial adjustments.  

There nothing more I could really add to the process.  I love how it turned out and it fits pretty well. 

 

Happy Sewing!

Cennetta

 

 

Cozy Stretch Velvet - New Look N6687

I wanted a cozy, black velvet top for the winter season.  When I saw the stretch velvet at Joann's, I really didn't have a pattern in mind.  I just knew I wanted something new and cozy for the season.  After returning home from the store, immediately I tossed the fabric with several other fabrics into the washer.  This velvet washes and dries beautifully.  Love it.

My pattern choice for my velvet top was New Look N6687.  I thought the match up was okay.  Not perfect though.  The fabric for the top used on the envelope appears to be lighter and has more fluidity.  

This pattern top, view A,  may be described as a knit top with a asymmetric neckline, ruched side and long sleeves.  

It comes in sizes 6 to 18.  I used size 16 with a few modifications.

My version of the top looks very much like the drawing and photographs on the envelope.  Because of the heavy fabric, my version does not have as much drape.  Also, the length of my top looks a few inches shorter.  

The instructions were typical and easy to follow.  It's important to transfer all markings, notches and circles.  There was nothing confusing in the instructions.  The top quickly came together.

What I like about this top is the neckline and the ruching.  A change in the neckline of a basic t-shirt is always welcomed.  The ruching helps add interest to the waistline while camouflages that little fluffy area that a few of us have. Lol

As far as alterations of the pattern, I didn't change/alter much.  In the bust area, I added just a bit more width and I lengthen the sleeves about an inch.  Lately, I've been feeling a little lazy when it comes to doing a FBA.  The good thing is it turned out just fine.

I think I will make this again.  Next time I will make it slightly longer.  Plus I will do a better "FBA". Lol  This is a pattern that beginners can make, and I do recommend it.  Surprisingly, there aren't many postings online by sewists who have made it.

In conclusion, this is a nice staple knit top to try.  The neckline and the ruching add interest to a basic t-shirt design.

So that’s it for now.

Happy Sewing!

First Garment of the Year! McCall M7836

Today I'm sharing my first sewing project for 2022.  This is the third top that I've made from McCall 7836.  The second one hasn't been reviewed yet.  I gave it to my sister early last year and almost forgot I made it.  

My initial plan was to make all the views.  But now I don't think I'll make view D.  My favorites are this view and view A.  I'll probably make them again.

This top was made to wear with a pair of leggings that I made a few months ago (I'll review them later this month.).   

I used size 16 with only a design modification.  The sizing was good for me without making a FBA.

For the most part, my top looks like the top the model is wearing on the envelope.  The top was easy to sew and it went together with no problems.

There are a few little things to look out for.  The notches on the two front and two back patterns do not line up.  See photos below.  No biggie, just line up the top and the bottom edges and sew them together.  It comes out even.  There was nothing confusing in the instructions other than that.

My likes:

• Drop shoulders
• Mock turtleneck
• Cold shoulder and the drape of the sleeve

Dislikes:

• Once I finished the top, I didn't like the width of the shoulder opening. It was too wide for me.  So I decided to make a braided strap to kind of control how wide the opening falls and to make it easier to wear with a traditional bra.  I think the strap adds a little more style to the top too.

The fabric I used is a stretch polyester velvet that I purchased at my local JoAnn's Fabric.  It washes and dries beautifully.  And it was also easy to sew.

I will probably make this again.  It's stylish and is a great top to wear with leggings or close-fitting pants.

I do recommend it to others.  This is not a new pattern.  And I think many sewists in the online sewing community have made it.  For sure I will make this one again.

Happy Sewing!

C