New Athleisure with Simplicity S9210

I proclaimed that I will burn all of my "highly worn" athleisure and lounge wear when Covid-19 is under control.  These outfits have been worn every week since there are very few places to go.  I joke about it with family and friends, often calling this set of outfits Covid-19 wear.  

Truth be told, I'm anxious get out of this "rut".  I want to get back to going to book club, Haute Couture club, and other gathering places that I enjoy.

Anyway, back to athleisure and lounge wear.  Athleisure is trending, and there are dozens of pattern designs available. Because I'm going to need replacements very soon, I decided to make a few new ones. My first outfit is made using Simplicity S9210.  It has seven views; a complete wardrobe of lounge wear include slippers.  From the picture on the envelope, these coordinates are designed for home wear.  But these designs can be also crafted for outfits to wear running errands to running in the park.

Simplicity describes the pattern as:  Misses' lounge tops, dress, shorts, pants and booties.  It is also described as "easy to sew".  The pattern is available in sizes XS to XXL. I used size large with modifications.

My views of A and F look pretty much like the basic design lines.  I did make a few changes.  

The construction is described as easy to sew.  Really it is.  I read the instruction when I first bought the pattern.  They were typical and easy to follow.  During my construction process I only glance at them.  

There are several things to like about the pattern:

• Complete wardrobe in one envelope
• Coordinates easy to construct
• The pattern has pretty good bones
• Comfy

I really don't have any real dislikes.  

My fabric is from a new company to me.  This was my first time ordering from them.  ISee Fabrics

They specialize in organic fibers.  They have great French terry and ribbed knits. I pre-shrunk my fabrics before cutting into it.  It washed well and sewed up with no problems.  The French terry is soft and comfortable.  I will purchase from them again.

Changes

• ViewA -
• Added an inch or so to the sleeve length.
• This view does not have the front pocket, but I wanted a front pocket for this hoodie.  I also added an inch to the bottom of the pocket.
• Used contrasting ribbed knit for the cuffs and waistband.
• Observation - I used size large.  I could have used between the medium and large at the neck and below the bust area.   The hoodie is huge.  Not a problem; just an observation.

• View F -
• Lengthen the pants a few inches.  
• I used ribbed knit for the waistband and the cuffs.
• Added elastic to the waistband.  I wanted to maintain the width.  I omitted the top stitches below the waistband.
• Added pockets: in-seam and back.  I used the in-seam pocket from another pattern and cut the back pocket without a pattern.
• Observation - The legs of the pants are more close fitting than mine.  The cuffs had to be stretched quite a bit to match the hem of the pant leg.

None of the observations created any obstacles with making the set.  They are just notes for what I experienced with making view A and F.  

I like how my new athleisure set turned out.  I'm sure I get plenty of wear out of it.  And I do recommend the pattern to others who are interested in replacing or adding to their athleisure wear.  This was a fun outfit to make.  I actually wore it yesterday.  I have lunch with a very good friend of mine most Mondays.  Yes, even in the face of Covid-19 we have tried to keep our standing lunch date.   So these days, we call the order in and bring it back to my house to eat.

So, I hope this review is helpful.  Thank you for stopping by my little place in cyberspace.

Happy Sewing!

C

My Latest Projects Sewn with Coats Eloflex Stretchable Threads

I was so happy to be selected to try out Coats new Eloflex stretchable thread. Initially, I thought of all sorts of "knit" things to sew. Once the initial excitement wore off, I decided to test the thread on something quick and easy.  But first, I wanted to closely examine the fiber of the thread to take note of the look, stretch and feel of it between my fingers. It reminded me of embroidery thread. Then I tried pulling it while holding it between two fingers.

This might sound a little crazy, but I wanted to see if it actually had stretch and if it would break easily.  Yes, it stretch and it did not break when I pulled on it.    I wanted to assess the usability before I tried it in the sewing machine.  I inserted a new Schwetz stretch needle, size 75/11; threaded a bobbin and the machine. I was able to use the thread like other thread without experiencing breakage or skipped stitches. I tested the stitching by holding the fabric taut and stretching it a little as the fabric passed through the needle plate area of the sewing machine.  It sews beautifully.  The stitches were the best when the fabric was slightly stretched though.

I really want you to try it out for yourself.  Please leave a comment indicating that you would like to enter a drawing for a packet of ten spools of thread in a variety of colors.  Just like the packet below.  I will send it to the person who's name is drawn.  If you would like to purchase the thread, you can find it at your location JoAnn's Fabric and Craft stores.

Also, go to the "Make It Coats" website to enter a contest for a grand prize.  The link is here.  Take a tour of the Make It Coats website for other products and project ideas.

Don't forget to let me know if you want to be included in to drawing for the packet of thread.

Thank you and Happy Sewing!
C

PS - DRAWING ON SEPTEMBER 30, 2017