Hello,
Hope you are all well.
The year is almost over and sewing wise, 2021 was a nice one. I made some garments that I have really loved and I challenged myself to make trousers!
One thing I have also used for the first time was a sewing kit.
I had the opportunity to try the Liberty Alexa Frill Dress Kit and you can read all about it here and here.
Hope you like it! š
Thank you so much for following my sewing adventures this year!
Maria x
Hope you are all well.
Today I have something a bit different to share with you. I have been wanting to try new things and challenge myself a bit. There are two things I havenāt really tried to make as I found those a little scary and I am not sure I can make it look good and with a professional finishing. Maybe I should say I was scaredā¦
Those two things are trousers and coats/blazers. The coat/blazer I will have to make another time but I just made a pair of trousers that actually look amazing inside and out!!
I have previously shared some makes of mine using Ose Patterns, a French designer that I truly like, not only for the very well drafted patterns and great instructions, the lovely encouragement words in the patterns but also for the person behind the brand, Monty, that is really a lovely lady and I know, puts a lot of work into her patterns to make them the best possible.
Today Ose Patterns are releasing a new pattern, the Steven Trousers and I had the opportunity to try the pattern. I will tell you all about it!
The Steven Trousers are high-waisted, have side slant pockets and all the details like a zipper fly and internal button and hook and bar closure.
The pattern is available from sizes 34 (UK 6) to 48 (UK 20) and are drafted for a height of 168cm. I find this last detail extremely useful as I almost always need to shorten and I know, without having to guess how much to reduce in height. Also, as usual in Ose Patterns, there are detailed and very useful instructions in case adjustments are needed.
I donāt often make a muslin however, in this case I did and the instruction also include all the steps for a useful muslin! To start with I made a size 34 (UK 6) at the waist and size 36 (UK 8) at the hip but after trying the muslin took a bit at the hip.
As for the fabric, I used a gabardine that I had in my stash for a long time and the fabric worked well but I really want to make another pair in corduroy for the colder months or maybe a twill a bit heavier.
Now, as you can see from the photos, I am quite happy with the fit. I just love how well the trousers fit at the waist and hip but are loose at in the legs. So comfortable! However, as much as I love the trousers outside, the inside makes me put a smile each timeā¦
You see, the detail and care that goes into itā¦ The seams are finished with bias all looks so neat. Of course, you can use other methods but I adore a bit of a flowery bias binding against a plain fabric. Business outside and fun inside! The fabric used for the lining is a very soft cotton and for the bias biding I used Liberty Cotton Tana Lawn.
I think that for a first pair of trousers these turned out pretty good. I am glad I challenged myself. If, like me, you are struggling to make trousers, there is also a video that is really helpful so, fear not, go for it!
Note: The pattern was gifted for me to try but the comments are my own and genuinely honest.
Have a lovely weekend and thank you for reading!
Maria x
Hello,
Hope you are all well and enjoying Summer (in case you are in North hemisphere).
Sunny weather hasnāt been very reliable this year but, that did not keep me from sewing a couple of summer tops. Although it might seem a bit useless, having in mind that I live in the UK, the truth is, I do wear cami tops quite a lot as they are perfect under a cardigan or blazer.
A couple of months ago I tried the Pema pattern from Ose Patterns and liked it so much that I wanted to try other patterns and this time I bought the BrenƩ Camisole and will be sharing with you the versions I made.
I found the pattern has some lovely details as it is but, it is also a great starting point to make it your own. As the Pema Dress, I found the pattern to be very well drafted and the instructions clear and detailed, with links to helpful videos. Also, it includes detailed and helpful instruction for size adjustments.
For the first version I made a straight size 34 based on my bust and waist measurements, with no alterations. In this case, I used a cotton lawn that was part of my stash for some time now (donāt even remember where I got it!) and a shirting cotton fabric for the lapel.
As per the instructions, I interfaced the facings, straps and lapel. The straps, I only interfaced half and I think it worked well. I find the lapel such a cute detail and it works great with a contrasting fabric or using the same. Also, the buttons can add a lovely detail. In this case, I only used one, instead of the three suggested.
In my opinion, the fabric worked really well for this pattern and I am so happy with the fit. The way it is designed makes it fit without being tight and the straps are perfect to cover bra straps.
For my second version I decided to experiment a bit. I made the same size, 34, without alterations but this time I added broderie anglaise lace to the straps (and absolutely love it) and omitted the lapel as I wanted the straps to stand out, keeping the rest simple.
As for the fabric, I used a Liberty quilting cotton. It is a wonderful quality and a bit different from other quilting cottons Iāve previously used. Even so, I think a lighter cotton or a fabric with more drape works better for this pattern. Nonetheless, I like it a lot!
This is a perfect pattern for someone that is a beginner as there is no closures and to use fabric leftovers.
I am genuinely happy with the fit and definitely it is a pattern that I will be making again and that I recommend.
Have a lovely weekend and thank you for reading!
Maria x
Hello,
Hope you are all well.
This last days the weather has been wonderful and of course, there was a need to make a new dress. Any excuse is good, really…
I made a lovely dress using a gorgeous Liberty linen / cotton. The pattern is the Anthea dress by Anna Allen and I don’t think I have to tell you how much I like those sleeves!
You can read all about this pretty dress at Minerva š
Hope you like the dress š
Have a wonderful week!
Maria x
Hello,
Here we are almost at Christmas and what a year it has been…
Today, I am sharing new blouse I made for F using lovely Liberty of London fabric.
This is a lovely project and you can read all about it here.
Wish you all a wonderful Christmas. This year might be very different but we will try to make it special.
Take care,
Maria x
Hello,
Hope you are all well and safe.
As you might have realised already, I do like patterns with nice details and for that reason, I was very happy to try Tilia Patternsā new release, The Curcuma Blouse and Dress.
I have followed and admired Evelineās work for quite some time and was really pleased when she announced she would be starting her own patterns company. Her first pattern is the Curcuma Blouse and Dress and it is a lovely one.
The pattern is available in sizes 34 to 54 as a blouse or dress, with short or long sleeves. The instructions are very clear, include fit adjustments and a tutorial with two options for the shirring technique.
This was the first time I ever used the shirring technique. To be honest, I was a bit afraid I would ruin everything and that, as soon as I finished sewing the elastic would get loose. Silly me! The technique is actually simple and the instructions are a good guide. I must say I also watched a video tutorial because I wanted to see how it was made in a similar sewing machine. Luckily, I did not need to change the bobbin tension and using a long stitch length was all I needed.
As you can see, I opted for the blouse version with short sleeves. I made a size 34 and shortened it 8 centimetres because the pattern was designed for a height of 168 cm and I am only 157cm. Apart of that minor adjustment I did not made any more changes.
I do like how chic and stylish this pattern is but, at the same time, so comfortable to wear. I donāt think it is very visible as the fabric print is busy but the sleeves are raglan. Also, the blouse has a slit back opening (not visible in the photo unfortunately) that closes with a button.
Regarding the fabric, I used a Liberty double gauze that I got last year from Stragier, it is so beautiful and soft. Double gauze is one of the recommended fabrics and it worked really well.
If you know me, even if only a bit, you must have guessed that my favourite part from this pattern is the collar and the sleeve. Such lovely details! I will need a long sleeve version of this blouse for autumn.
I followed the instructions and the construction went smoothly, the fit is good and I am genuinely happy with this blouse.
The pattern was kindly gifted to me and I was not asked for a blog post however, my opinion is completely honest and I absolutely adore this blouse. š
Have a lovely weekend.
Maria x
Hello,
I donāt know about you but, here in the UK the weather has been wonderful lately and making us dream of Summer holidays. I am not having high hopes regarding this Summer holiday however, that is not keeping me from making a few garments.
Yesterday, Project Run & Play released a pattern collection ready for Summer, the Project Watercolour Beach. This collection is a set of 10 patterns from different designers and Suco by Susana is one of them.
From what I could see, the collection has some great patterns however, I will only talk about the Golden Dress, from Suco by Susana, because that was the one I tested.
The Golden Dress is available from size 12 moths to 14 years old and is an easy one to make, easy to wear dress. It does not have buttons, zippers or other closures and that makes it perfect to wear on the beach, poolā¦ but also looks great as dress for everyday wear. Just play around with different fabrics to obtain different styles.
I made a size 10 for F, without any changes, fits her perfectly and is very comfortable. The elastic waist makes it fitted but comfortable.
Despite having easy construction, this dress has really good finishing and some lovely details. To start with, it has pockets. You will have to trust me on this one as I forgot to take photos of the pockets but, it is there. The waist tie also adds some cute detail and is great if you want to use a contrasting fabric for a pop of colour.
Also, the neckline facing not only make a good finishing but also look really nice, even if not visible. As you know I like garments with pretty insides.
As for the fabric, it is recommended light-weight fabrics with good drape. I used a Robert Kaufmann Chambray bought 5 years ago(!) that I thought was perfect as it also matches the pattern collection theme. It worked pretty well in my opinion. As contrast, for the tie and facing, I used a Liberty Tana Lawn.
Overall, I found the pattern really cute and practical, perfect for everyday wear. As usual with Suco by Susana patterns, the fit is good, the instructions clear and with good constructions techniques.
Susana, also has another pattern as part of the collection, the Lemon Tee Pattern.
Now, during the release week the patterns will have 20% discount and the collection bundle with over 30% discount.
Have a good week.
Maria x
Hello,
A little unexpectedly, but certainly happy for it, we are having lovely warm weather, that made me want to sew more for summer. My favourite kind of sewing after all.
I donāt think I will be making the girls a lot of clothes nonetheless, I would like to make them a couple of things and when I asked F what she would like me to make her, she said a shirtdress. She really adored the one I made her, a few years ago so, she asked for a new one.
I had a vintage pattern in my stash however, it was a size 12. A little too big for the moment. So, I had a look on ebay and there it was, the very same pattern in size 10. The pattern is Simplicity 5178 from 1972.
It was not the first time I made F a Simplicity vintage pattern and I really like how it fits her.
The pattern offers three different skirt options and two sleeve options. We went for the short sleeve with gathered skirt and fabric belt. The pattern also includes pockets but I skipped those.
In true vintage style, the skirt is on the short side. I absolutely adore the vintage skirts but, I want the dress to last all summer so, I made a smaller hem in an attempt to make this dress last a bit more.Ā
About the pattern itself, I am pleased with the fit. The dress has darts at the waistline (front and back) and at the shoulders (back) and that does make a difference.
The instructions were easy to follow and I had no issues with that part. What I was not so pleased with, was how the skirt front opening turned out. My fault entirely and I will try to press it better next time she wears it.
Ā
The fabric I used is a cotton poplin, from Stragier, in her favourite colour, yellow. To make some contrast, I used Liberty Mitsi cotton lawn for the belt and I couldnāt resit and also made her hair bows to match, using the Clara Bows pattern from Jilly Atlanta.
Ā
Overall, I am really pleased with the dress and so is F. I find it to be age appropriate and with a good fit.
Sewing for the girls age group is a bit challenging but, it is fun to see how different is their taste for clothes.
Ā
Have a lovely week.
Maria x
Hello,
It has been a while since I last posted here and how much things have changed around here!
Hope you are managing well and that this situation is not having a significant impact in your life.
I have been sewing a little, not much as I am finding it a bit hard to focus and today, I am here to share something a little bit different from my usual projects but, adorable nonetheless.
I have made several of Jilly Atlanta patterns and some of them several times. Jilly Atlantaās patterns are classic, lovely and my girls really like to wear the clothes I make them using the patterns. This time however, Jilly is releasing a hair bows pattern! The Clara Bows.
There are five different bows in different sizes and can be used as headband, with a hairclip or bobble, to suit all hair styles and ages.
I just couldnāt stop after making one and got a bit carried away. Here are a few bows I have made.
These are bow #3 using gingham cotton to match the pinafore š
I used hair bobbles for these.
Made the option #4 using different fabrics, like broderie anglaise and Liberty Tana Lawn. So sweet!
These are all with alligator hairclips except the broderie anglaise ones (I made two). For these I made one with hair bobble and other with hairclip.
For the bow option #5, used swiss cotton dot and adore the vintage look!
This one is also with hairclip.
For a more relaxed look, made the option #7 in chambray and hair bobble.
Finally, made the option #9 using a lightweight linen and used hairclip.
As usual, the pattern includes clear and detailed instructions and even if, like me, this is not your usual project, you can achieve lovely bows to match all those pretty dresses. Also, I think option #4 and 5 works well for grown-ups as well.
This is the perfect project to use scraps or for children to learn sewing. Plus, it is free if you join Jilly Atlanta Facebook Group. š Yes, that is correct, it is free!
Go on, join the group if you havenāt yet and have fun.
Maria x
Today is my turn to share my version of the Madrid Dress! The Tour started last Monday, 17th June and goes until Friday, 28th. There have been some lovely versions and I am sure there will be plenty more and loads of inspiration. So, please, make sure you check it on IG, it is really worth it!
The Madrid Dress is Coffee and Threadās latest pattern and is a Bohemian inspired faux wrap dress, packed with options that will make it wearable throughout the year, as a dress or a tunic.
The pattern is available from sizes 2 to 20 and based on my chest and waist measurements I made a size 2. Now, my hips measurements place me between size 2 and 4 but, as it isnāt a fitted dress in this area, I did not make any changes and went with a straight size 2.
Contrary to my usual self, I did some changes to the original pattern. First, I made it sleeveless. I have omitted the sleeves and finished with bias binding. I did consider lining the bodice but, because it is a faux wrap it wouldnāt work as I intended and abandoned the idea. I did make a toile but at the time it didnāt seemed necessary to take a bit at the shoulder although now I think it would have been betterā¦ Next time I know!
The second change I made was not exactly a change, I just added a ruffle to the neckline and I absolutely love it. š The dress is lovely as it is but, Iāve seen a few ready to wear garments with that kind of ruffle and really wanted to make it.
I did not make any changes to the skirt and went for a midi length. I must thank Olga for mentioning in the instructions, that this pattern was drafted for women 160-172 centimetres height. Not my case, I am smaller, but in this case, decided not change anything to start with and see how it looked. Because the second tier is a rectangle, if it was necessary, I would take some length at the end. I ended up liking how it looked and not changing anything.
There is also an optional tie, that I made as I couldnāt resist a bow. I already have another version planned (just waiting for the fabric to arrive) and that one will not have the tie but, I am considering taking a couple of centimetres at the waist to make it a bit more fitted.
The fabric I used is Liberty Tana Lawn Edenham from Alice Caroline. I do adore this print and think it worked really well for this dress. Now we just need proper summer weather in the UK for me to wear it. Honestly, my boots are out again and the heating is onā¦ I do need some sun!
I do have happy news for you! Olga offering 25% off any of her patterns during the tour, with code āmadridtourā š If youāre wanting to try one (or several) of her patterns, now it is a good time to get it. Iāve made quite a few of her patterns and totally recommend.
A Pinch of Sewing 