tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-59276098787923048852024-02-19T17:40:59.701+11:00deadlycraftdeadlycrafthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12848285918829575767noreply@blogger.comBlogger218125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5927609878792304885.post-57338698468639424992019-02-15T21:00:00.002+11:002019-02-15T21:00:58.527+11:00Workhorse Patterns Ione Top<i>Full disclosure: this was a pattern a received as a pattern test and it's the first pattern of my co-editor at the <a href="https://thesewcialists.com/" target="_blank">Sewcialists </a>(and all round awesome person) <a href="https://www.instagram.com/sewbeckyjo/?hl=en" target="_blank">Becky</a>. You might not feel that I would be super objective on this pattern because I love Becky, but she lives on the other side of the world and I still wore this to work today because I LOVE IT.</i><br />
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This is the <a href="https://workhorsepatterns.com/products/ione-shirt-pdf-pattern" target="_blank">Ione Top from Workhorse Patterns</a>. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLQDrlZNahThyphenhyphent4Q1s6as7QwHxURbyF7h8xPs6BtRK-tiiYvs6IeKRV3zFpHmMbpEKft-1YRHutmkFj85XwdSG6bMSmiJhaxeyiC2mmcAL1h8wep3en-8tOK4c17bZdht-uXpjH7cxUY4/s1600/IMG_20190215_192029_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLQDrlZNahThyphenhyphent4Q1s6as7QwHxURbyF7h8xPs6BtRK-tiiYvs6IeKRV3zFpHmMbpEKft-1YRHutmkFj85XwdSG6bMSmiJhaxeyiC2mmcAL1h8wep3en-8tOK4c17bZdht-uXpjH7cxUY4/s640/IMG_20190215_192029_1.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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This top is version 2: the v-neck. I left off the sleeve cuff as my pattern is somewhat busy, but I might still go back and add it I think...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2k327u6G7ec7EHFYc8vtp-Npf3ScdXjNuwBokcKr4t9EN1NQlQI9OLtKOk_N8DBblHRwzGdq65T2adgr7rMq9e3fJQrmUPmOsE5Q6t4NdAFMx-dh1rtQim4MEwifQbAFaeBU1PAXAerY/s1600/IMG_20190215_073910.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2k327u6G7ec7EHFYc8vtp-Npf3ScdXjNuwBokcKr4t9EN1NQlQI9OLtKOk_N8DBblHRwzGdq65T2adgr7rMq9e3fJQrmUPmOsE5Q6t4NdAFMx-dh1rtQim4MEwifQbAFaeBU1PAXAerY/s400/IMG_20190215_073910.jpg" width="300" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguCeXKJOfaeHW0yJ4EdDwO6t4dmh8LF4CbxsWKRo7tso4RVUFt3onilwrUytL2soITO667HlkFJkmladx86Ypw_M0OCuzZGlAx4WpvPSFPcKn-9fktLbWSG0xXgRYR58afOkZQgbrmBxo/s1600/IMG_20190215_192019.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="910" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguCeXKJOfaeHW0yJ4EdDwO6t4dmh8LF4CbxsWKRo7tso4RVUFt3onilwrUytL2soITO667HlkFJkmladx86Ypw_M0OCuzZGlAx4WpvPSFPcKn-9fktLbWSG0xXgRYR58afOkZQgbrmBxo/s400/IMG_20190215_192019.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
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It's quite amazing how different this looks in the morning versus the afternoon/early evening light!<br />
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I really like the curved "hi-low" hem on this top. It's a really nice shape at the hem.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil1dcCfhXNqDbHygutxrwvOId2j2ghrid7Z42qLKTHGPqZR2AdjTYgUkvqhV1JPzh8qrn6Ls5c9RCaFhEMHrxZ1aDJWhOoZ6IOI1JtnUfyfrI63e36T2AglzynpI0jZTPYiaknzoR4Bpc/s1600/IMG_20190215_192229.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1221" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil1dcCfhXNqDbHygutxrwvOId2j2ghrid7Z42qLKTHGPqZR2AdjTYgUkvqhV1JPzh8qrn6Ls5c9RCaFhEMHrxZ1aDJWhOoZ6IOI1JtnUfyfrI63e36T2AglzynpI0jZTPYiaknzoR4Bpc/s640/IMG_20190215_192229.jpg" width="488" /></a></div>
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I would also like to call out that this top goes up to a size 32 (US). That's <b>bloody brilliant</b>. <br />
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WELL DONE FRIEND!<br />
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<h2 style="background-color: white; color: #292929; font-family: Lora, serif; margin: 1em 0px;">
All the deets:</h2>
<b style="background-color: white; color: #292929; font-family: Lora, serif; font-size: 20px;">Pattern: </b><span style="background-color: white; color: #292929; font-family: Lora, serif; font-size: 20px;"><a href="https://workhorsepatterns.com/products/ione-shirt-pdf-pattern" target="_blank">Workhorse Patterns Ione Top</a></span><b style="background-color: white; color: #292929; font-family: Lora, serif; font-size: 20px;"> </b><span style="background-color: white; color: #292929; font-family: Lora, serif; font-size: 20px;">(Version 2)</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #292929; font-family: Lora, serif; font-size: 20px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #292929; font-family: Lora, serif; font-size: 20px;" /><b style="background-color: white; color: #292929; font-family: Lora, serif; font-size: 20px;">Size:</b><span style="background-color: white; color: #292929; font-family: Lora, serif; font-size: 20px;"> 18 </span><br style="background-color: white; color: #292929; font-family: Lora, serif; font-size: 20px;" /><b style="background-color: white; color: #292929; font-family: Lora, serif; font-size: 20px;"><br /></b><span style="background-color: white; color: #292929; font-family: Lora, serif; font-size: 20px;"></span><b style="background-color: white; color: #292929; font-family: Lora, serif; font-size: 20px;">Adjustments: </b><br />
<ul style="background-color: white; color: #292929; font-family: Lora, serif; font-size: 20px;">
<li>Cut a straight 18</li>
<li>Added 2" length (all at lengthen/shorten line)</li>
<li>I made the v-neck slightly wider and slightly deeper (about 3/4" removed all the way around the neckline)</li>
</ul>
<b style="background-color: white; color: #292929; font-family: Lora, serif; font-size: 20px;">Fabric used: </b><span style="background-color: white; color: #292929; font-family: Lora, serif; font-size: 20px;">Printed s</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #292929; font-family: Lora, serif; font-size: 20px;">ilk from <a href="https://www.tessuti-shop.com/" target="_blank">Tessuti Fabrics</a></span><br style="background-color: white; color: #292929; font-family: Lora, serif; font-size: 20px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #292929; font-family: Lora, serif; font-size: 20px;" /><b style="background-color: white; color: #292929; font-family: Lora, serif; font-size: 20px;">Like it? Wearing it? </b><span style="background-color: white; color: #292929; font-family: Lora, serif; font-size: 20px;"> YES and YES! I wore it work today and it is comfortable and flattering and just the right sort of vibe for my work. I will more than likely make another :)</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #292929; font-family: Lora, serif; font-size: 20px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #292929; font-family: Lora, serif; font-size: 20px;" /><b style="background-color: white; color: #292929; font-family: Lora, serif; font-size: 20px;">Notes for next time: </b><span style="background-color: white; color: #292929; font-family: Lora, serif; font-size: 20px;"> Just to remember to make the straight 18 - I cut the 20 graded to an 18 for the test version and I prefer the result of this version</span>deadlycrafthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12848285918829575767noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5927609878792304885.post-55908697947261756682019-01-26T16:11:00.002+11:002019-01-26T16:11:45.497+11:00Simple Sew Cocoon DressI had this on my Make Nine for 2019 (as yet unblogged/unposted...). I ended up making it just before the year started - I literally finished it at 3.30pm on New Year's Eve and wore it out that night!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDbNZ4EVL1k5Lou4lOGv1U96pE_ZwP7vW60jgSAPEJkQKWckhzMnu5oU8R86RQH1Cx-5ciBmxoskXuFCMkINzFn5qR7lz_dV0j2s3da2prwLB_vFhA8GQ2wl9jVmpPzIKB2MWqNi6FNDM/s1600/Simple+Sew+Coccoon+Front+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDbNZ4EVL1k5Lou4lOGv1U96pE_ZwP7vW60jgSAPEJkQKWckhzMnu5oU8R86RQH1Cx-5ciBmxoskXuFCMkINzFn5qR7lz_dV0j2s3da2prwLB_vFhA8GQ2wl9jVmpPzIKB2MWqNi6FNDM/s640/Simple+Sew+Coccoon+Front+%25282%2529.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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There isn't a lot to say on this one. It's easy to wear (which I once thought I would never say about a dress!) and I really like it.<br />
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I do wonder whether this colour is right for me - it's a bit dress like a crayon / turn into a full body crayon!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7D1VZHZSa7kT6a9q92h45liNC5204W4QFboWSeaFtEZPf10oA2NdXpWaRILYeq0aBjhVmynR6iUAsa61U8CSdYDrj_6g6jj2wXnQEG6F3tXKwjdAGDVSM61VxlCuuRnplHqA2GQsMFfI/s1600/Simple+Sew+Cocoon+-+Side+view+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1147" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7D1VZHZSa7kT6a9q92h45liNC5204W4QFboWSeaFtEZPf10oA2NdXpWaRILYeq0aBjhVmynR6iUAsa61U8CSdYDrj_6g6jj2wXnQEG6F3tXKwjdAGDVSM61VxlCuuRnplHqA2GQsMFfI/s640/Simple+Sew+Cocoon+-+Side+view+%25282%2529.jpg" width="458" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My arm is literally the same colour as this dress...</td></tr>
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I need to press that sleeve better!<br />
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It has POCKETS, which is always excellent.<br />
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<h2>
All the deets:</h2>
<b>Pattern: </b><a href="https://www.simplesewpatterns.com/products/the-cocoon-dress" target="_blank">Simple Sew Cocoon Dress</a> (View B)<br />
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<b>Size:</b> 18 (ish)<br />
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<b>Adjustments: </b><br />
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<ul>
<li>Cut a 20, graded to 18 in the hips</li>
<li>Added 3" length (1.5" in the bodice and 1.5" in the leg bit)</li>
<li>Took some width out of the sides which probably took it back to an 18 all over? </li>
</ul>
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<b>Fabric used: </b>Canvas look Lyocell in Deep Blush from <a href="https://theremnantwarehouse.com/" target="_blank">the Remnant Warehouse</a><br />
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<b>Like it? Wearing it? </b> YES and YES! It's perfect for work and easy to wear - especially in the Australian summer :)<br />
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<b>Notes for next time: </b> Nil - it was pretty quick and easy to sew, and it's definitely good to make again with the same adjustments.deadlycrafthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12848285918829575767noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5927609878792304885.post-64461144022145345462019-01-20T12:54:00.001+11:002019-01-20T12:54:54.971+11:00Named Rae Pants (cropped version)As someone who pattern tested one of the garments in <a href="https://www.namedclothing.com/" target="_blank">Named</a>'s new book, <a href="https://www.namedclothing.com/shop/breaking-the-pattern-a-modern-way-to-sew/" target="_blank">Breaking the Pattern</a>, they very generously sent me a copy of the book when it was released.<br />
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My first make was some drapey Rae pants, which are perfect for Sydney weather and for work!<br />
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My new approach to blog stuff is to have a template where I record adjustments etc which can be found at the bottom. That makes the rest of the post until then mostly pictures :)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUChhMBHPA5zabo01ztMiF_tDO7tNsbhYFPqdRNqlYahfJIhvfGiagtLNxw20AMuEdxYXyd_pgQAZXXzXhZqts4HRJoAGByhQZlv1tcpJmLT6UDzQ-pg37PLF_qPqKmZg2Ki7t0PGsKiw/s1600/Named+BTP+Cropped+Rae+Pants+Front.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUChhMBHPA5zabo01ztMiF_tDO7tNsbhYFPqdRNqlYahfJIhvfGiagtLNxw20AMuEdxYXyd_pgQAZXXzXhZqts4HRJoAGByhQZlv1tcpJmLT6UDzQ-pg37PLF_qPqKmZg2Ki7t0PGsKiw/s640/Named+BTP+Cropped+Rae+Pants+Front.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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These are made from two fabric panels I got from The Fabric Store in Sydney.<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-l6awf673OdI/XEPKdN_gwtI/AAAAAAAApzw/I3V0UTb_g1Atd5vU_kIdFKnVhLeX-hkjgCLcBGAs/s1600/Named%2BBTP%2BCropped%2BRae%2BPants%2BClose.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1127" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-l6awf673OdI/XEPKdN_gwtI/AAAAAAAApzw/I3V0UTb_g1Atd5vU_kIdFKnVhLeX-hkjgCLcBGAs/s640/Named%2BBTP%2BCropped%2BRae%2BPants%2BClose.jpg" width="450" /></a></div>
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I used the fabric in the opposite direction for the waistband.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRd-27sX8B51ACUmth8cFuFZm0UTWlPG5WdtBxGRRJ6-7f94cFJtb7Tl0K5ODOsqa-5G1dcFG7kWCF_JxletC2M9B86SPACro0iUCm5q0aDrbuUcE-vegZk4dBINwBQv2YjYoMhfH5_NY/s1600/Named+BTP+Cropped+Rae+Pants+Animation.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="932" data-original-width="698" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRd-27sX8B51ACUmth8cFuFZm0UTWlPG5WdtBxGRRJ6-7f94cFJtb7Tl0K5ODOsqa-5G1dcFG7kWCF_JxletC2M9B86SPACro0iUCm5q0aDrbuUcE-vegZk4dBINwBQv2YjYoMhfH5_NY/s640/Named+BTP+Cropped+Rae+Pants+Animation.gif" width="478" /></a></div>
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My main love for these relates to how well they drape and move. I tried to post a video but it didn't work here...</div>
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<h2>
All the deets:</h2>
<b>Pattern: </b>Named Rae Pants<br />
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<b>Size: </b>9<br />
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<b>Adjustments:</b> <br />
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<ul>
<li>Graded from 9 to 8 (or possibly 7) in the hips and legs - there is a lot of ease in this pattern so i did that by eye rather than using the pattern pieces</li>
<li>I didn't lengthen them! I would usually need a good 2" but I wanted a cropped version</li>
<li>I shortened them - again by eye - based on where I thought looked good with the print on the panels I was using</li>
<li>Lowered the slit - they would have been a bit too revealing at work I think with the slit where it was (mid-thigh for me), though this might depending on lengthening too.</li>
</ul>
<div>
<b>Fabric used:</b> Something drapey (viscose?) from the Fabric Store. Actually two panels. <i> </i></div>
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<i>Note to self: get better at recording what the fabric you buy is and whether it's washable!</i></div>
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<b>Like them? Wearing them? </b> YES and YES. Love the style - thinking about making another pair<br />
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<b>Notes for next time: </b> Remember to lengthen if you want them to be the length shown on the pattern - it's super easy to alter where it hits.<br />
Want a drapey fabric that holds a crease (if you want it to) but doesn't crease toodeadlycrafthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12848285918829575767noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5927609878792304885.post-75320916457449248582019-01-02T14:27:00.002+11:002019-01-02T14:27:36.563+11:00Top 5 of 2018 <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
I am a bit late to this party but still wanted to join in!<br />
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I thought I would do a mash-up post on all of the categories (noting that I tend not to do reflections and goals separately anyway).<br />
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<b>HITS</b><br />
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<ol>
<li>Sewing more TNT and patterns - the <a href="https://grainlinestudio.com/shop/women/linden-sweatshirt/" target="_blank">Grainline Linden</a> and the <a href="https://www.paprikapatterns.com/shop/jasper-bundle/" target="_blank">Paprika Patterns Jasper</a> (shown here with crossover collar add-on) were both definite staples. I get sooo many compliments on the Jasper! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyUuRaPwDUdmEDSml8N67Ka1dw9IUO4ldEm84zF8Tx5D7N1c_y39y4HYDSuO17YOFqnyMU7ZpCsloFxEAGU1BU1n1ZQHL-hv-DWdAJ3LnX022p5VT8GuYLc4ObJ7KM-5vx0b0ENKA2tFw/s1600/IMG_20180203_152515-COLLAGE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1201" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyUuRaPwDUdmEDSml8N67Ka1dw9IUO4ldEm84zF8Tx5D7N1c_y39y4HYDSuO17YOFqnyMU7ZpCsloFxEAGU1BU1n1ZQHL-hv-DWdAJ3LnX022p5VT8GuYLc4ObJ7KM-5vx0b0ENKA2tFw/s640/IMG_20180203_152515-COLLAGE.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
</li>
<li>Other sewing - the <a href="https://papercutpatterns.com/products/sapporo-coat" target="_blank">Papercut Patterns Sapporo Coat</a>, the <a href="https://www.cashmerette.com/products/ames-jeans-pdf-pattern" target="_blank">Cashmerette Ames Jeans</a> and the <a href="https://blog.cashmerette.com/2016/03/free-appleton-top-hack.html" target="_blank">Cashmerette Appleton top</a> I made are all total hits and worn a lot, especially the jeans! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT0jjTe12jYxB84s9rkrnoy5s31kFOqBDoLHyQNLesyf2O8ZCHtt8rhtzwWwkVvMVoU87o0ITYDHzinLdEvUPzAyYhBKEqcBcIp5xxfqmHr8Nve3_ey1sbjEk5R6a9MrkiW_xdUfbvwTM/s1600/IMG_20180506_101110-COLLAGE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT0jjTe12jYxB84s9rkrnoy5s31kFOqBDoLHyQNLesyf2O8ZCHtt8rhtzwWwkVvMVoU87o0ITYDHzinLdEvUPzAyYhBKEqcBcIp5xxfqmHr8Nve3_ey1sbjEk5R6a9MrkiW_xdUfbvwTM/s640/IMG_20180506_101110-COLLAGE.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
</li>
<li>The RTW fast was astonishingly easy and I consider that a roaring success. I have mentioned before that the Facebook group wasn't really for me, but overall as a concept I was very happy with how I did. I only bought a couple of items that weren't going to be made by me ever (waterproof pants for ski-ing anyone?) and it definitely pushed my sewing further towards the practical. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuMMg7nHVaPLOZovTph9VoVG__BfjjjXxLxh_JqG2oHjnfCOHWKQLNIy2lU1CAQwEcJVGKhIjd4TPlyQRcJwwIMEDpDAZFWYhgwJw24COoqj9TmJbWmEq4Fn_OclMw4SI0W8iTrA_8WeY/s1600/2018-RTWFast-copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="316" data-original-width="320" height="197" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuMMg7nHVaPLOZovTph9VoVG__BfjjjXxLxh_JqG2oHjnfCOHWKQLNIy2lU1CAQwEcJVGKhIjd4TPlyQRcJwwIMEDpDAZFWYhgwJw24COoqj9TmJbWmEq4Fn_OclMw4SI0W8iTrA_8WeY/s200/2018-RTWFast-copy.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
</li>
<li><a href="https://thesewcialists.com/" target="_blank">The Sewcialists</a>! I became a permanent editor this year and I love it. I am chief scheduler, which appeals enormously to my list making tendencies :) It's a fantastic community and I am super proud to contribute to it :) <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB1OoafvTfekKNueHaKg6lUut9J-44t7ehNsXGRjk6NkEMwINXeR74CVh-CEEBP-U7BsMoraaJoIfwU619p_MYUGFnGrmbqFl1NcwOuvnH8rWKe1CoUTYsQBOOvLqVVW0pQmzSk0IT-Vc/s1600/Sewcialists.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1175" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB1OoafvTfekKNueHaKg6lUut9J-44t7ehNsXGRjk6NkEMwINXeR74CVh-CEEBP-U7BsMoraaJoIfwU619p_MYUGFnGrmbqFl1NcwOuvnH8rWKe1CoUTYsQBOOvLqVVW0pQmzSk0IT-Vc/s320/Sewcialists.jpg" width="234" /></a></div>
</li>
<li>My final success is how well I did on last year's top 5 goals! They were: being more considered, take better photos, RTW fast, engage with the online community and teach my daughter to sew. I have taken steps towards all but the last one...which is good progress!</li>
</ol>
<div>
<b>MISSES</b></div>
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<br />
I won't say much in here as my sewing this year has felt pretty productive. I did have one spectacular fail of a pattern test for the <a href="https://www.namedclothing.com/shop/anni-building-block-pattern-jumpsuit/" target="_blank">Named Anni</a> as you can see below.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6XF93tcerJ2SNB3HfCNOS0kxrmd6r4bLIe8Jil2d-Q2o5-0h5FrIisJSBwk9D7l7yHFsiEttT4VnaWNqhpNY3B6F2CaRvVSUHQOvcEMtC1SlfMHsfeiGvNOhFHynypY4zBqWDolYIeCI/s1600/IMG_20180708_125120.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6XF93tcerJ2SNB3HfCNOS0kxrmd6r4bLIe8Jil2d-Q2o5-0h5FrIisJSBwk9D7l7yHFsiEttT4VnaWNqhpNY3B6F2CaRvVSUHQOvcEMtC1SlfMHsfeiGvNOhFHynypY4zBqWDolYIeCI/s640/IMG_20180708_125120.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My god this is awful...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I know it's a pattern test, so I shouldn't care too much - but I picked absolutely the WORST fabric which puckered and behaved appallingly. I usually get something wearable out of testing and I love how this pattern looks on others, so I was quite disappointed.<br />
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Another fail might be how little I have blogged here, but am not sure that's a fail so much as a reflection of it not being as high on the priority list. I have an idea on that below...<br />
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<b>GOALS for 2019</b><br />
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Tricky! I think they are as follows:<br />
<br />
<ol>
<li>Keep not buying RTW. The fast is over but actually that had very little to do with it for me in the end. I would actually like to extend the fast into underwear (see goal 3!)</li>
<li>Keep chasing more TNT patterns - I used our TNT month as inspiration and have bought the most popular patterns to see if I like them too! It worked with the Linden so hopefully the others will be just as good.</li>
<li>Make underwear / swimwear. I have patterns and kits - what's holding me back?</li>
<li>Blog a couple of times a month. There are so many things I have made that aren't recorded - maybe I go back to using this as a note of what I made and adjustments etc so it's more useful to me. I am considering a format / template of just all the pattern and make details plus pictures, rather than words (if that make sense!).</li>
<li>Again, sew more thoughtfully. I am compiling a Make Nine, not as a way of joining in with a challenge, but as a way of ensuring I think about sewing things I will wear and that I need in my wardrobe.</li>
</ol>
<br />
Well, that brings us almost back up to date. I have a few recent makes ready to blog, so hopefully that will spur some more activity around here!<br />
<br />
Ciao for now...deadlycrafthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12848285918829575767noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5927609878792304885.post-22738282610477044112018-09-19T11:09:00.000+10:002018-09-19T11:09:07.671+10:00What to wear to a winter wedding?I recently attended the wedding of a close friend in New Zealand. If you aren't aware, early August in New Zealand is COLD! <br />
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Cue a lot of googling on what to wear to an (outdoor) winter wedding :) I even made a pinterest board of ideas<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOffvTrvv5qQyvg5-ucdfLByq4J7lBAZk0hJ7NLy4fy_i70N8R0ct87w7S3Wg6FfkagT86XPn3hDZ7K2F44xr86PRZ9m3sQ972vrszWwzmCzJ8FZxh7R8ywUrKz75bY_ZqzJejo_voSVQ/s1600/Anna%2527s+Wedding+-+Pinterest+board.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="899" data-original-width="1600" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOffvTrvv5qQyvg5-ucdfLByq4J7lBAZk0hJ7NLy4fy_i70N8R0ct87w7S3Wg6FfkagT86XPn3hDZ7K2F44xr86PRZ9m3sQ972vrszWwzmCzJ8FZxh7R8ywUrKz75bY_ZqzJejo_voSVQ/s640/Anna%2527s+Wedding+-+Pinterest+board.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I also took inspiration from my #SewStyleHero as part of the theme month that was running via <a href="https://thesewcialists.com/" target="_blank">The Sewcialists</a>. <a href="https://thesewcialists.com/2018/08/15/sew-style-hero-blake-lively/" target="_blank">You can read about that here</a>.<br />
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Here is what I came up with:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg23Mq6ZKbHsj_JULjvbUwo05Tf35p0b7Np2maqwpaLMjhoi0VlNxvIJ0MPEI42ertVfEkSfRDPheCAfctPepcJjIv0FctffZV8hERac8nyfHfWlUE6dnDi1ueaRzgIvOC11wAmyvJXfjE/s1600/Wedding+outfit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg23Mq6ZKbHsj_JULjvbUwo05Tf35p0b7Np2maqwpaLMjhoi0VlNxvIJ0MPEI42ertVfEkSfRDPheCAfctPepcJjIv0FctffZV8hERac8nyfHfWlUE6dnDi1ueaRzgIvOC11wAmyvJXfjE/s640/Wedding+outfit.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I used a heavy stretch navy sequin (<a href="https://www.pitttrading.com.au/" target="_blank">Pitt Trading</a>) for the skirt...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9gKTQ4qfRgg77uBPJo2SQXwSxN7Tx5l1LnzTSe3iUT9bcIpgIA_sQiRqrtT3qM_T4DBEJbGzpjf52GxjGlNK5mqS0NCFe_h0W_6AMqQM4G2A79EAQyyFO2Sqx0WaegHSWUb4y1bVX7ww/s1600/sequins.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1475" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9gKTQ4qfRgg77uBPJo2SQXwSxN7Tx5l1LnzTSe3iUT9bcIpgIA_sQiRqrtT3qM_T4DBEJbGzpjf52GxjGlNK5mqS0NCFe_h0W_6AMqQM4G2A79EAQyyFO2Sqx0WaegHSWUb4y1bVX7ww/s640/sequins.jpg" width="590" /></a></div>
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...and a soft silvery beige colour stretch velvet (from <a href="http://tessuti.com.au/" target="_blank">Tessuti</a>) for the top.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia083XBBf8EVvYVKFa_TXIa5SH5SiyFKoHf-gNdqpJJqdO-0iQSIgDBUH4KgN9KZFwsJIRClyvf5P_-QZlacCdPhTYrpYk37CCmNbi4nBmU14BAJmYaZsjm3UE4EAIQUgIeUfHQ-Hxiik/s1600/Wedding+top.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia083XBBf8EVvYVKFa_TXIa5SH5SiyFKoHf-gNdqpJJqdO-0iQSIgDBUH4KgN9KZFwsJIRClyvf5P_-QZlacCdPhTYrpYk37CCmNbi4nBmU14BAJmYaZsjm3UE4EAIQUgIeUfHQ-Hxiik/s640/Wedding+top.jpg" width="478" /></a></div>
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The skirt was self-drafted and designed to be as full and sequiny glorious as the amount of fabric i had would allow. I will probably cut off the skirt now to make it more wearable in everyday life, though I loved the effect for a fabulous winter wedding.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtsweYAFQP8PMUtwiIWS4x03mySwsjsVKpcQSHqZnBPiUDTs8CdH5maD1L5D3GhlXK16RAyQR6X7rHJQK2RLE7trk12rcJQ0nzVtbWnA0YK7nSjA__mPCqlvdanURhpvX1y0J5Hctgsp0/s1600/wedding+outfit+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1589" data-original-width="1414" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtsweYAFQP8PMUtwiIWS4x03mySwsjsVKpcQSHqZnBPiUDTs8CdH5maD1L5D3GhlXK16RAyQR6X7rHJQK2RLE7trk12rcJQ0nzVtbWnA0YK7nSjA__mPCqlvdanURhpvX1y0J5Hctgsp0/s400/wedding+outfit+2.jpg" width="355" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7FjHMAI6vSR-D1VZQXoddFDvDy3p7__PCnJxa0xMSBCoUveD3b8akXYb5jkir80eAbPnkhwLoeouk9suaHC-0TK2tdQhbNNyAEcMpOxfBfY2axjGfIfavH2crSD7C9YsZXghHPjqfMzk/s1600/wedding+back.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1588" data-original-width="970" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7FjHMAI6vSR-D1VZQXoddFDvDy3p7__PCnJxa0xMSBCoUveD3b8akXYb5jkir80eAbPnkhwLoeouk9suaHC-0TK2tdQhbNNyAEcMpOxfBfY2axjGfIfavH2crSD7C9YsZXghHPjqfMzk/s400/wedding+back.jpg" width="243" /></a></div>
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The top is the <a href="https://www.seamwork.com/catalog/astoria" target="_blank">Seamwork Astoria</a> and was a bit of a revelation. <br />
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This was my second Seamwork pattern and I really liked it. I know it's trendy at the moment to dislike Colette / Seamwork but I really don't understand why (aside from a few drafting mistakes a few year's ago). I think they are great and have resolved to try out more of their patterns.<br />
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So that's the winter wedding sorted! <br />
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Ciao for now!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE9uPNtT45VNaVdjWzM5I-5EE70BCjZQ4k7xZJFOWvuA8jpd-WOO5fuEWLkQZfmcN41j4ZVvYAska5JUQMHDwH1zmvXGSSXA1zV4qC5ovOKh7yrrlk7NkSvK3uSgnFYvzLrbU6zW7TP1Y/s1600/wedding+outfit+final%253B.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE9uPNtT45VNaVdjWzM5I-5EE70BCjZQ4k7xZJFOWvuA8jpd-WOO5fuEWLkQZfmcN41j4ZVvYAska5JUQMHDwH1zmvXGSSXA1zV4qC5ovOKh7yrrlk7NkSvK3uSgnFYvzLrbU6zW7TP1Y/s640/wedding+outfit+final%253B.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br />deadlycrafthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12848285918829575767noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5927609878792304885.post-84819124638541036082018-09-16T10:45:00.000+10:002018-09-16T10:45:04.242+10:00Sew DIY Ali Sweatshirt - Pattern TestI recently had the opportunity to pattern test the new <a href="https://www.sewdiy.com/blog/2018/9/9/new-in-the-shop-the-ali-sweatshirt-pdf-pattern" target="_blank">Ali Sweatshirt from Sew DIY</a>.<br />
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This test was very well-timed, as we were heading into winter in Sydney, as well as going off to even colder climes in New Zealand for a holiday.<br />
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I made my test out of a super snuggly organic sweatshirt fleece which was from fabric.com about a million years ago. It felt really good to finally use it for something!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidOkQPOHNlRPOCJcGYoZ61hg-nT-dUB7VbuHYiuriPzlA8JPMVaEcgnv2vliIgnt-KnD1ZNfqADXq748P-n_vHxliI5epKg3QdJXhGue3ko6G4h4uYjFBw10Iq8UWXTgLDrnEjPOxwq9U/s1600/DSC01465+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1021" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidOkQPOHNlRPOCJcGYoZ61hg-nT-dUB7VbuHYiuriPzlA8JPMVaEcgnv2vliIgnt-KnD1ZNfqADXq748P-n_vHxliI5epKg3QdJXhGue3ko6G4h4uYjFBw10Iq8UWXTgLDrnEjPOxwq9U/s640/DSC01465+%25282%2529.JPG" width="406" /></a></div>
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I made the scoop neck version and added some length in the bodice and sleeves, which is a pretty usual adjustment for me (I am six foot tall). I might remove a touch from the sleeves if I made this again, but I do like how snuggly it is with the longer sleeve!<br />
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The pattern has a shoulder yoke which offers opportunities to have a contrasting colour or fabric there (you can see a good example of this <a href="https://www.sewdiy.com/blog/2018/9/9/new-in-the-shop-the-ali-sweatshirt-pdf-pattern" target="_blank">on the pattern page itself</a>) and can see where it is in the picture below.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe_YF-YohstLT0ZDRdwUYY0uqr8_K0s45URWEwxJFbnxQ1GTwrg8noBw4uvwcuiHAoFhpXXjjpe5861A2cS8T_mri_jRJ6LKdQqaTAYCag6ddaLrfXv0pORppX-heOuczTZ3pfJ6TW-4Q/s1600/DSC01470+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1503" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe_YF-YohstLT0ZDRdwUYY0uqr8_K0s45URWEwxJFbnxQ1GTwrg8noBw4uvwcuiHAoFhpXXjjpe5861A2cS8T_mri_jRJ6LKdQqaTAYCag6ddaLrfXv0pORppX-heOuczTZ3pfJ6TW-4Q/s640/DSC01470+%25282%2529.JPG" width="600" /></a></div>
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I should note at the point that the pattern has changed a little since I tested. One of the common feedback points was that the sleeves had too much volume - I am pretty sure Beth has slimmed them down in the final version.<br />
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My version is a halfway house, as I took pictures for the feedback and then also slimmed the sleeves down anyway...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi64GDf6OPUEEeTnwhV-EF7CwuQP77QmEklJKPnB92IMlEExI_UczfuyXj92bXsPa1fE-4MtyiVvISeqGZ7aVk0oXlHzpL8j2e0bVzq8TrN-7Ik5I6mpxCygcZeGnUtIzR2XOLxHyjAngA/s1600/DSC01462+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="934" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi64GDf6OPUEEeTnwhV-EF7CwuQP77QmEklJKPnB92IMlEExI_UczfuyXj92bXsPa1fE-4MtyiVvISeqGZ7aVk0oXlHzpL8j2e0bVzq8TrN-7Ik5I6mpxCygcZeGnUtIzR2XOLxHyjAngA/s640/DSC01462+%25282%2529.JPG" width="372" /></a></div>
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I really like this sweatshirt. It's a good mix of having some volume, but still being flattering - as well as a good mix of a basic wardrobe staple with a few details such as the yoke and neckline to make it not boring. I would recommend it if you are looking for a new sweatshirt pattern!<br />
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Ciao for now!<br />
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<br />deadlycrafthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12848285918829575767noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5927609878792304885.post-38027014878722071742018-09-15T10:22:00.000+10:002018-09-15T10:22:02.503+10:00Quick "tween" dress for a special occasionI don't post a lot of kid makes these days - and to be honest, I don't make many! When they wear school uniform 5/7, there isn't a lot of additional clothing required. It's also possible I would far rather sew for me, as I don't grow out of things...<br />
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However, we recently went to a winter wedding in New Zealand and couldn't find something for Isabelle to wear that was both warm and appropriate.<br />
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This posed the challenge of what you should make to wear to a wedding in the middle of winter! For Isabelle (aged 11) I knew that something with a bit of sparkle but still fairly young would be right. She would also need sleeves!<br />
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Here she is running around at the world's most spectacular wedding location:<br />
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The bodice of the dress is a combination of the <a href="https://shop.made-by-rae.com/products/flashback-skinny-tee" target="_blank">Made by Rae Skinny Flashback Tee</a> on the top, with a RTW top she liked the fit of.<br />
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I used a simple jersey for comfort (from Spotlight) which had some glittery dots on it. I underlined it with a plain white ITY for warmth, as well as adding a panel of strange, stretchy metallic mesh (also underlined with the ITY). She made the design herself in terms of how the mesh was used.<br />
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You can see the fabrics best in the shot above. The original intention was to make the top panel out of just the mesh, but it definitely wasn't stable (or warm!) enough.<br />
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I used the <a href="https://byhandlondon.com/pages/circle-skirt-app" target="_blank">By Hand London Circle Skirt calculator</a> to add a full circle skirt to the bodice, as well as some 1/8" elastic around the waist to cinch it in a bit.<br />
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This is probably the best picture of the finished dress:<br />
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She was pretty happy with it.<br />
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And here we are as a team - looking a teensy bit cold :)<br />
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It's an interesting age to sew for. The fabric she chose was more junior than I expected, but she then wanted a sort of "cold shoulder" vibe with the mesh panel. <br />
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She was also way more into the styling of this than she would have been even a year ago - making sure she chose a belt, boots, hairband and bag that picked out colours in the fabric. Waaay more effort and thought than I put into most of my outfits!!!<br />
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She also found some uber cool fingerless gloves to wear which were pretty awesome. I would love to say I knitted them, but I can't because I didn't!<br />
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Here she is again because the location was amazing and I love her :) <br />
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Ciao for now!<br />
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deadlycrafthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12848285918829575767noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5927609878792304885.post-10594147490698086372018-07-15T16:33:00.000+10:002018-07-15T16:33:25.752+10:00Sapporo Coat or the magical 5-hour pattern!Hi All<br />
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We had to make an expected trip down to Tasmania this weekend and Tasmania in the middle of winter is VERY VERY COLD.<br />
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I realised I don't really own a coat, which was going to be a problem. Luckily, I had already bought the required ingredients for one a week ago, because we are heading to New Zealand (also VERY VERY COLD) soon.<br />
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I decided to try the <a href="https://papercutpatterns.com/products/sapporo-coat-pdf" target="_blank">Sapporo coat from Papercut Patterns</a>:<br />
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<a href="https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0170/3286/products/SapporoWoolFront_64b91c18-d62c-40f3-a2a8-255e1e76d627_2048x.jpg?v=1496908365" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="500" height="640" src="https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0170/3286/products/SapporoWoolFront_64b91c18-d62c-40f3-a2a8-255e1e76d627_2048x.jpg?v=1496908365" width="400" /></a></div>
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I was a bit nervous heading into this one for a few reasons - one being that they don't quite go up to my size (nearly), the other being that the coat is one of those cool-looking cocoon things with lots of ease in it. These styles are a bit hit-and-miss on me, as I am already large on top.<br />
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Behold! Success!<br />
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I love it! It's warm (wool from Tessuti's) while being not too swampy. <br />
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The style lines are just like the pattern cover and line drawings:<br />
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The back is tres chic and cocoon-y without being sacky:<br />
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It kept me warm in Hobart!<br />
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I should note that I am around 2.5" smaller than "expected" for this size in the bust, however there was a good 10" of ease in the pattern, so I went with it.<br />
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I am really happy with the fit, but have seen a lot of posts suggesting that you should size down in this one, so that's advice I think I would heed.<br />
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I like the length of the sleeve and how the giant cuffs work to make a soft curved shape that matches the overall bodice shape"<br />
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And I should also note that I didn't lengthen this at all, though I am happy with the length as it is. There actually aren't any lengthen / shorten lines on the pattern, which drives me nuts. </div>
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If I had wanted to length it, I would have been cross, given the style lines probably make that a bit more difficult than usual.</div>
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Overall, I am really happy with this, and it only took 5 hours from cutting out to finished product! I had already made a muslin in a lighter fabric which is going to make a killer spring cover up for here in Sydney.<br />
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Happy happy winter sewing!<br />
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Ciao for now....Cdeadlycrafthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12848285918829575767noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5927609878792304885.post-59596229974806276342018-06-23T09:45:00.001+10:002018-06-23T09:45:10.977+10:00Unselfish sewing - copying a RTW denim skirtIf you are looking for tips on how to copy a RTW garment - please scroll to the bottom :)<br />
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In recent times (especially the last year or two), I have been very unwilling to sew for others. Sewing for the kids doesn't seem as rewarding when they wear school uniform so much, Nick doesn't need anything and I haven't been doing much quilting either.<br />
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I usually politely decline any offers to assist friends with sewing tasks, particularly taking in or hemming, unless they are a VERY good friend. I would rather make myself a whole new pair of pants than fix a hem on mine, so why anyone would think I might enjoy mending their clothes is beyond me...<br />
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However, some people are special enough and sometimes the task at hand is interesting enough.<br />
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Introducing Nicky's new denim skirt:<br />
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Nicky is about to go overseas for 7 months and really wanted a new version of a very worn-in denim skirt she has.</div>
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I used leftover Cone Mills denim from Nick's jeans, which made this satisfying and non-wasteful.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibWmfezgPYs7Op29Z_qVrJaEhosIopCa88lYox-DRhQAn6h7wpwxj4mzIcL4o-zQhTXAQpybY3n-mfrbldwLrWNqFQtoScF0upLFbPOOPJTXExJVm-kagq8hkYb35n9hPWb8JwWiJ4ZzU/s1600/IMG_20180609_161206.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1224" data-original-width="1600" height="488" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibWmfezgPYs7Op29Z_qVrJaEhosIopCa88lYox-DRhQAn6h7wpwxj4mzIcL4o-zQhTXAQpybY3n-mfrbldwLrWNqFQtoScF0upLFbPOOPJTXExJVm-kagq8hkYb35n9hPWb8JwWiJ4ZzU/s640/IMG_20180609_161206.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I mostly copied the skirt she gave me, but offered her the chance to customise the pockets (I sent her a few examples and she chose one):<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRHfL8LNENPO4kr1X1H_m0IRyqrRLVRzniic8vWnR96Zyje6khSEDdXDL5zSvU7wYz37UVVbHDzpz6PMUDdBEAMpsAUUFs_Zj3BhJwvyRtNbO2GCfyIkWqJdOF-MQOo7nZqygs6RZH7jk/s1600/IMG_20180609_161210.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1208" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRHfL8LNENPO4kr1X1H_m0IRyqrRLVRzniic8vWnR96Zyje6khSEDdXDL5zSvU7wYz37UVVbHDzpz6PMUDdBEAMpsAUUFs_Zj3BhJwvyRtNbO2GCfyIkWqJdOF-MQOo7nZqygs6RZH7jk/s640/IMG_20180609_161210.jpg" width="482" /></a></div>
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I used the same combination of topstitching threads (a mix of blue and green) as I did on my <a href="http://deadlycraft.blogspot.com/2018/05/cashmerette-sewing-workshop-review.html" target="_blank">Cashmerette Ames Jeans</a> and some jeans hardware I already had leftover from other projects.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD-yHjd08hfotTIlbzbgugL1kdLXg2cTzDSKwGlM1v1brwV0xayteFabFJ9U_MoNfjN4lL5fC5ZjlYFNxPUhJ1wzBOc_qrTvaGwPRrv7-nf1QLDdxdgghFdUchbGtJJ0MIYlsrzna2pzk/s1600/IMG_20180609_161220.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD-yHjd08hfotTIlbzbgugL1kdLXg2cTzDSKwGlM1v1brwV0xayteFabFJ9U_MoNfjN4lL5fC5ZjlYFNxPUhJ1wzBOc_qrTvaGwPRrv7-nf1QLDdxdgghFdUchbGtJJ0MIYlsrzna2pzk/s640/IMG_20180609_161220.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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For the final magic trick - I was able to copy the skirt without cutting it up! There are a few tips on doing this below, but here they are together!<br />
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I actually love both of these skirts - one so distressed and casual and the other so sharp and smart :)<br />
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If you are interested in copying one yourself, here's tips on how I did it:<br />
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<b>Tip 1 - make it easy</b><br />
It's a lot easier <b>NOT</b> to leave the one you are copying intact. The first time I did this, I copied a pair of RTW jeans for nick, but they had holes all over the place and he was happy for them to be cut up. If you have that option - use it! It allows you to see construction, reverse document the steps etc.<br />
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<b>Tip 2 - use a pattern</b><br />
"<i>But I want the fit of these pants, not from a pattern!</i>" I hear you cry. I get that, but I still use a sewing pattern for a similar jeans construction to let me review methods for things like constructing the pocket bags and the fly. In this case, I used the <a href="https://store.closetcasepatterns.com/products/morgan-boyfriend-jeans-pattern" target="_blank">Morgan Jeans pattern from Closet Case Patterns</a> a bit, because it has those things.<br />
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<b>Tip 3 - don't do this first (probably)</b><br />
I am not sure I would have been able to do this if I hadn't already made jeans previously from a pattern. It's just easier to reverse engineer the steps when you have done them forward at least once! The downside on this is that you have to deal with fit issues if you use a pattern, whereas you know it fits if you copy a garment...<br />
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<b>Tip 4 - measure, measure, measure (then measure some more!)</b><br />
You need to measure the RTW version a lot, then do it some more. Measure everything. Garments of denim curve over time, plus jeans have a lot of curved seams, so you will be trying to measure around curves and translate them to a flat garment. <br />
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Take your time, work out how to measure multiple reference points (i.e. "if this piece is right, the edge of the pocket will be in line with a point about a third of the way up the fly"). These aren't super precise, but they are reassuring references!<br />
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<b>Tip 5 - don't forget seam methods, and make your allowances large</b><br />
Jeans seams can be constructed in various ways (serged and pressed over to one side, then topstitched down, or flat-felled etc). Take note of how the seams on the RTW garment work and how much allowance you might need to include to reproduce that seam.<br />
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You can also consider changing the seam finish to something you like more, just be careful to consider why the seam was finished that way in the first place. For example, flat-felled seams are "expensive" to make, as they take time and precision. Jeans makers might just serge and press to the side instead to save money. However, the front seam on most jeans and skirts of this type is almost always the serged method because of how the fly is constructed - you need to be able to clip into that seam to allow the fly to press nicely to the side.<br />
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<b>Tip 6 - do you want to adjust them?</b><br />
I know we just said we are copying these because they are a great fit...but they could still be a teensy bit too tight or too loose, too long or too short. Now is the time to make them even more perfect. Just consider how and where to adjust (i.e. is the additional leg length needed below or above the knee etc).<br />
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<b>Tip 7 - how will they wear? Or really, make them tighter than you think</b><br />
The garment you are copying is probably already worn in. It has stretched and moulded to the wearers body over possibly years and multiple washes. The fit will be very different to how it was when the garment was new.<br />
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This is a big dilemma - the balance between comfort now and longevity of fit. If you make them exactly like the original, they will probably be too loose within weeks. You need to make them a bit tighter than you think, so they can relax to the best fit possible. This is only a small amount and the brand new denim will also add some stiffness, so go carefully. Use step 11 as a guide here.<br />
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<b>Tip 8 - consider the grain</b><br />
Have a look at the garment you want to copy and work out where a seam or piece is on the straight of the grain and where not. In parts where the piece isn't on the grain or is irregular, match whatever they have done as there could be a good reason why a particular seam is cut on the grain meaning the rest of piece isn't.<br />
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The yoke of jeans and skirts is often cut with the grain running the other way (i.e. horizontally rather than vertically), so watch for that and mimic accordingly.<br />
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<b>Tip 9 - eyeball measure and compare as you go</b><br />
As you cut each piece, lay it over the top of the other and check it seems right. If you haven't cut up the original, you can even fold under the expected seam allowance to check the result is OK.<br />
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Similarly, when the two back panels or legs are sewn together, measure from side to side across the full garment width and compare whether this seems correct. Do it at each step to make sure something didn't go awry and you don't realise until too late.<br />
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<b>Tip 10 - sewing order</b></div>
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Think through and document the sewing order. Particularly re the fly area and how the front seam is sewn. This is where having a reference pattern is also really helpful. You don't want to have to unpick things! </div>
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You should also consider in what order to topstitch. You can do some as you go, but some has to wait until you are sure you don't need to adjust the seam further (see step 11). It's also painful to re-thread your machine a lot if you are using the one machine only. <a href="https://www.cashmerette.com/products/ames-jeans-pdf-pattern" target="_blank">The Cashmerette Ames pattern</a> has an alternate construction order for people using one machine, to help you avoid having to re-thread too many times. </div>
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<b>Tip 11 - baste to fit</b></div>
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If you have the person you are making this copy garment for (and it's not a surprise!), use them to test the fit and make sure you are on the right track.</div>
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Most patterns have you sew in the pocket bags at the front, yokes at the back, and finish the inner leg seams / front seam. You then baste the fly area / crotch seam shut and baste the side seams. You can then try the skirt or pants on (no need to add the waistband) and see whether they feel right. If you can, you would do this a few times, such as prior to hemming and before you install the waistband button.</div>
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<b>Tip 12 - hammer the seams</b></div>
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Most machines struggle with 4+ layers of denim. If you hammer seams and intersect points they will be much easier to sew. Similarly, hammer wherever you will install rivets. </div>
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I didn't believe this would make much difference until I did it (I am a dumbass sometimes).</div>
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<b>Tip 13 - have fun!</b></div>
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This is wonderful excuse to customise jeans with different colour stitching, distressing etc. There are heaps of tutorials and ideas out there for this and the process of personalisation (even when knocking off an existing garment) is awesome. </div>
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Making stuff like this makes me feel super human :)</div>
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deadlycrafthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12848285918829575767noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5927609878792304885.post-32402091039840060522018-05-27T11:42:00.002+10:002018-05-27T11:42:18.152+10:00Finding a TNT - Grainline LindenHi everyone!<br />
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<b>** Sorry for the awful pictures - in a rush, with an eight year old boy as photographer! **</b><br />
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As you may remember, I conducted some analysis of the <a href="https://sewcialists.wordpress.com/2017/12/06/sewcialiststnt-stats-nerd-alert/" target="_blank">Sewcialists TNT month results</a> and I also <a href="https://sewcialists.wordpress.com/2017/10/16/catching-the-unicorn/" target="_blank">wrote about</a> how I haven't yet found much of anything that I could consider a TNT.<br />
<br />As a result, I decided to focus on finding some TNTs for me, using the Sewcialists results as a guide. You might recall that the <a href="https://grainlinestudio.com/shop/women/linden-sweatshirt/" target="_blank">Grainline Linden</a> took 67.3% of the pie in terms of sweatshirts / jumpers. That was definitely on my list after that strong showing! I also included it on my <a href="http://deadlycraft.blogspot.com.au/2018/04/my-me-made-may-plan.html" target="_blank">Me-Made-May plan </a>- so it's very exciting that I have actually made it within May!!!<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0OM2M7ELQI4/WwoMT3OIJwI/AAAAAAAAizM/fJRyFQ6wkIAuKJjoKO8BnmLUjefsLWLnwCLcBGAs/s1600/00003XTR_00003_BURST20180526180658%2B%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="615" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0OM2M7ELQI4/WwoMT3OIJwI/AAAAAAAAizM/fJRyFQ6wkIAuKJjoKO8BnmLUjefsLWLnwCLcBGAs/s640/00003XTR_00003_BURST20180526180658%2B%25281%2529.jpg" width="246" /></a></div>
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It's made out of a stretch fabric from Pitt Trading (called gold patina knit - sold out) which is lovely blend of black and gold. It's like a sparkly top, without being ridiculously sparkly.</div>
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Overall the pattern was reasonably easy to adjust (once I found a good reference for an FBA on a raglan sleeve). I used a mixture of the <a href="https://closetcasepatterns.com/clare-sewalong-full-bust-adjustment-adjusting-length/" target="_blank">Claire Coat tutorial from Closet Case Patterns</a> and the <a href="https://www.paprikapatterns.com/how-to-do-a-full-bust-adjustment-on-a-dartless-shirt/" target="_blank">Paprika Patterns dartless FBA tutorial</a> to add a couple of inches to the chest and then rotate out the resulting dart.</div>
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While these adjustments are now common for me, they do result in a very messy looking pattern piece!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfVB_OY_9wNyUr5TXiy-_NOXUJLMxnsq3qMle08GQ5Wnfn1e_6OkceAPp0xoBToSZH1ADDMS2q63NJz4-lzbUQLDiAlGXyz3rTI4rdrVaUWtaJWoHPDcgJiMSZubIBBke9HLuWz_HVZlE/s1600/IMG_20180527_105604.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfVB_OY_9wNyUr5TXiy-_NOXUJLMxnsq3qMle08GQ5Wnfn1e_6OkceAPp0xoBToSZH1ADDMS2q63NJz4-lzbUQLDiAlGXyz3rTI4rdrVaUWtaJWoHPDcgJiMSZubIBBke9HLuWz_HVZlE/s640/IMG_20180527_105604.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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I also adjusted for length - a standard for me being to add around 2" to the bodice and 1.5" to the sleeves.</div>
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While the sleeves are a touch long with the adjustment they are pretty good, but the additional body length was too much. The first attempt was definitely too long (it was just about tunic length) and much less flattering. These pictures are taken after I removed about 2.5 - 3 inches back off the length.</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rYaje-0ps64/WwoMUKsrstI/AAAAAAAAizQ/UFx91kvfgS0L0j_mBZfyMTpybrXf2q05ACLcBGAs/s1600/00228XTR_00228_BURST20180526180658.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="601" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rYaje-0ps64/WwoMUKsrstI/AAAAAAAAizQ/UFx91kvfgS0L0j_mBZfyMTpybrXf2q05ACLcBGAs/s640/00228XTR_00228_BURST20180526180658.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Obviously I would have added some length via the FBA, but I was still surprised by how long this came out originally. I am six foot tall, so anyone with a short torso might want to bear that in mind.</div>
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I also shaved about 3/4" off both side seams from below the bust down. This was enough to make the fit flattering and slim, while still relaxed. While 3/4" doesn't seem like much when you merrily serge it off the side, it actually adds up to around 3" around the full garment, so I should probably redraft the pattern piece a bit to accommodate. </div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Tn_PhhcKn0c/WwoMUgQdwjI/AAAAAAAAizc/7wTqBVpPg_8dhRHV5vgTqcLEKI3TWrPUACLcBGAs/s1600/00329XTR_00329_BURST20180526180658.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="700" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Tn_PhhcKn0c/WwoMUgQdwjI/AAAAAAAAizc/7wTqBVpPg_8dhRHV5vgTqcLEKI3TWrPUACLcBGAs/s640/00329XTR_00329_BURST20180526180658.jpg" width="280" /></a></div>
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Overall I really like how this turned out. It's dressy enough with the gold fabric to wear out for drinks, but super comfortable and relaxed.</div>
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It's also very very quick to sew. I started this around 2pm yesterday, and wore it out last night (we left about 5.30pm). Given that includes all the adjustments on the pattern and the back on forth on the length, that's pretty speedy!</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Bev2CU73VCA/WwoMUFJfhuI/AAAAAAAAizU/iUVvLe8S6-4_OU3ZUMxtSdq1rsKxGzKfwCLcBGAs/s1600/00026XTR_00026_BURST20180526180658%2B%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="620" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Bev2CU73VCA/WwoMUFJfhuI/AAAAAAAAizU/iUVvLe8S6-4_OU3ZUMxtSdq1rsKxGzKfwCLcBGAs/s640/00026XTR_00026_BURST20180526180658%2B%25281%2529.jpg" width="248" /></a></div>
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I would like to try and make a v-neck version of this, so that might be next on the list. That would also make this a TNT!!!</div>
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Ciao for now :)</div>
deadlycrafthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12848285918829575767noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5927609878792304885.post-36709226939680078262018-05-16T22:41:00.001+10:002018-05-16T22:41:33.028+10:00Cashmerette Sewing Workshop ReviewHi All!<br />
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I am finally ready to post my review of the Cashmerette Sewing Workshop that I "recently" attended. Yes, the workshop was nigh on three months ago BUT I have only recently finished the items that I started working on that weekend. I figure I can't fully review the thing until I have sewn up the clothes and discovered how they turned out...<br />
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Before I get into how the workshop was structured and what I liked / didn't like, I have to say the most amazing thing about this workshop was the people. Jenny and Carrie created an open environment with a genuine approach of body positivity. This is so rare in our usual world that there were people in tears of relief that they were allowed to just make themselves something that fit without judgement. <br />
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The workshop appealed when I saw it advertised for a range of reasons. There were small numbers (I think 7-8 of us, plus Jenny and Carrie) and one of the main drawcards for me is that there was NO set agenda! You could literally come to make a single full garment from scratch, diagnose fit issues on existing made items, or somewhere in between. This was perfect for me, as I really wanted actual fit advice rather than an in-person sewalong which tend to be more about sewing for that garment (only).<br />
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The format was simple - a bit of a chat, then we all started doing whatever we wanted to do - with lots of help from Jenny and Carrie. The doing continued until Jenny called us together to demonstrate a particular adjustment or technique. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2VAqUzu_nTVO-ng_N4yunuPgkCPl-69gyITbYzMQSomFPaLeBOHKVC9dcKqJn9E1xNR82ia2o2kLk20bPuYLEWs1v7Btv2Nh4q-uy91eVIslU_4btyBicItO-VRd_zQoKl7YJ5OogSlA/s1600/IMG_20180218_145055.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2VAqUzu_nTVO-ng_N4yunuPgkCPl-69gyITbYzMQSomFPaLeBOHKVC9dcKqJn9E1xNR82ia2o2kLk20bPuYLEWs1v7Btv2Nh4q-uy91eVIslU_4btyBicItO-VRd_zQoKl7YJ5OogSlA/s640/IMG_20180218_145055.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The things she demonstrated were either directly related to what one or more of us were working on at that time (i.e. a practical example on something being made on the day), or they were things we expressed an interest in (i.e. someone asked about doing full bicep adjustments so it was covered using an example sleeve pattern piece).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSSG0CZ6WpTpHkEQqdW4fsP0AIDpSDeplJqUCuxjBnhO9aoOQK2WJ9u0Hy4EiC587ZWu9FG_zzKvaeNnW4tD78Ih1ouDqX14JCTA5SIsB_F7DhJjxBaw23NLexYNwxX4xe4X16f25l1Xs/s1600/IMG_20180218_145217.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSSG0CZ6WpTpHkEQqdW4fsP0AIDpSDeplJqUCuxjBnhO9aoOQK2WJ9u0Hy4EiC587ZWu9FG_zzKvaeNnW4tD78Ih1ouDqX14JCTA5SIsB_F7DhJjxBaw23NLexYNwxX4xe4X16f25l1Xs/s640/IMG_20180218_145217.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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This was a great mix of learning things "on the job" and in a more theoretical sense. We were also given the option to not care about the demo and just carry on sewing, which was fantastic when the adjustment wasn't relevant to our bodies, or we were in the sewing zone.<br />
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I worked on a muslin pair of Ames jeans, which I started from scratch. I got great advice from Jennie on which size and pelvis to select. I adjusted the pattern as agreed and then cut out and rough-sewed the pants during day one. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6V5lRIiNeZW8CUsq_osrR4yFfHWF22GFr3cz9jfxV8A_pCxDBnZo6u1bGLGxB97fkkv_s_m6y1EQWjIcJs6Q2sHhpYnP14j7gFFlbe1S0yRgvRHjHw3UHekjw4_imOswA7LapkruONZg/s1600/IMG_20180218_151913-COLLAGE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6V5lRIiNeZW8CUsq_osrR4yFfHWF22GFr3cz9jfxV8A_pCxDBnZo6u1bGLGxB97fkkv_s_m6y1EQWjIcJs6Q2sHhpYnP14j7gFFlbe1S0yRgvRHjHw3UHekjw4_imOswA7LapkruONZg/s640/IMG_20180218_151913-COLLAGE.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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My muslin is bottom left (I didn't bother doing a full leg on the right, as you can see). I was able to then cut these out of the "good denim" during the workshop. <br />
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I finally finished these a couple of weeks ago and I love them. The fit is pretty perfect - they are super comfortable and also look great. They could be a smidge longer but otherwise I am very happy.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXbvvBrsq4U0HOIBHZTmMisFUAE8_CUawWLYQ7HqVSQtI_X6r82a2FFbphq6M0LdgMgQMYScy415BPz3n8f8bp3PK_V7XQffZDrAvg4JFS_vX50lwcprW_FUE0mAcAFqw5T5QVkzjGRXc/s1600/IMG_20180512_100102+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXbvvBrsq4U0HOIBHZTmMisFUAE8_CUawWLYQ7HqVSQtI_X6r82a2FFbphq6M0LdgMgQMYScy415BPz3n8f8bp3PK_V7XQffZDrAvg4JFS_vX50lwcprW_FUE0mAcAFqw5T5QVkzjGRXc/s640/IMG_20180512_100102+%25281%2529.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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On day two, I worked on the Harrison shirt which I had already cut out as a muslin, but wanted to sew up and get any tips on adjusting the fit.<br />
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I got some extra help from Carrie on where to adjust both patterns in terms of additional length which will be helpful for my next version of this shirt, as well as a demo of how to do a full back adjustment from Jenny.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZmiASu2boVSBoCZUiZdWQvteWHXVCmlqlhaLViE2pVrcffd3014t1F7xQfl_CQ4_nvhaadFgOWACQFJMNx8Nl2Bww173Sv16rngTfJLXQ-SqPoHUedyjRhPQKqwhfsvzLMkh1M0S9Kxg/s1600/IMG_20180421_171458.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZmiASu2boVSBoCZUiZdWQvteWHXVCmlqlhaLViE2pVrcffd3014t1F7xQfl_CQ4_nvhaadFgOWACQFJMNx8Nl2Bww173Sv16rngTfJLXQ-SqPoHUedyjRhPQKqwhfsvzLMkh1M0S9Kxg/s640/IMG_20180421_171458.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I like this pattern very much and the fit is pretty good. However the pattern on this fabric is off grain - which drove me nuts cutting it out and I can see it in the finished product. I will still wear this (I like the colour and pattern) and am still overall quite happy.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCA_8pRP0093o_1ijBtgaDci8-Fc4dOj2Rap9hV2JKFwc9NQItSjIZmOTKJ-WwNA_7XsAeyTpjcmGZ1aA93yd4dbi5SNPJVPIGeX90yy_KsmcqiYUA0RVp7Ndey36pYlwvZwIzZkTESYk/s1600/20180501_073931-COLLAGE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCA_8pRP0093o_1ijBtgaDci8-Fc4dOj2Rap9hV2JKFwc9NQItSjIZmOTKJ-WwNA_7XsAeyTpjcmGZ1aA93yd4dbi5SNPJVPIGeX90yy_KsmcqiYUA0RVp7Ndey36pYlwvZwIzZkTESYk/s640/20180501_073931-COLLAGE.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I got a lot from the workshop and would recommend it to others. The help with fit was fantastic and I have two great garments as a result of the two days. I would also say these are likely to end up being TNT patterns because I am so much closer to the perfect fit than I would have been had I made these on my own outside of the workshop.<br />
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Getting to spend time with Jenny, Carrie and the fantastic group of women who were at the workshop was also immensely enjoyable. The atmosphere was supportive and fun, and there is nothing more lovely than seeing people grow in confidence and learning from each other.<br />
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So that's a very belated review of the workshop - I would say go for it if you get the chance, and I am on the list if and when the Cashmerette team come back to Australia!deadlycrafthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12848285918829575767noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5927609878792304885.post-49195761992540709992018-04-15T09:27:00.000+10:002018-04-15T09:27:01.620+10:00Buying no clothes for a WHOLE YEAR (2018 RTW Fast) - Quarterly Update!Having been very scared of the RTW fast when I signed up, I have found the first quarter to be a breeze! I haven't felt like buying anything and am much more inspired to sew.<br />
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I have made 4 finished items:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5ZvB1Z6gRPU9HjrqEaIxWLef6f-2DhOfGDDKKULt1GVwXXefLvnuC6UmAffxzHiwwKozTctBE9RvtUGZBG9AerTMGrtcPV0nrXtepLLT991UJnNd7v6oUy8iRCgMmTMOjh7pHgRnwY2g/s1600/MVIMG_20180105_144516-COLLAGE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5ZvB1Z6gRPU9HjrqEaIxWLef6f-2DhOfGDDKKULt1GVwXXefLvnuC6UmAffxzHiwwKozTctBE9RvtUGZBG9AerTMGrtcPV0nrXtepLLT991UJnNd7v6oUy8iRCgMmTMOjh7pHgRnwY2g/s640/MVIMG_20180105_144516-COLLAGE.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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They are the Style Arc Billie Top (<a href="http://deadlycraft.blogspot.com.au/2018/01/buying-no-clothes-for-whole-year-and-my.html" target="_blank">blogged here</a>), a Seamwork Aurora top to demonstrate piecing stripes to create chevrons (<a href="https://sewcialists.wordpress.com/2018/01/22/tips-on-piecing-stripes-to-make-chevrons/" target="_blank">for a Sewcialists post here</a>), the Paprika Patterns Jasper with crossover collar addition (<a href="http://deadlycraft.blogspot.com.au/2018/04/paprika-patterns-jasper-crossover.html" target="_blank">blogged here</a>) and a mystery garment which is a pattern test that hasn't yet been released.<br />
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I have also progressed a <a href="https://www.cashmerette.com/collections/cashmerette-patterns/products/harrison-shirt-pdf-pattern" target="_blank">Cashmerette Harrison shirt</a> and <a href="https://www.cashmerette.com/collections/cashmerette-patterns/products/ames-jeans-pdf-pattern" target="_blank">Ames jeans</a> after attending one of Jenny Rushmore's workshops in Sydney (aaaaaamazing), but they aren't finished so they will count in next quarter's round up.<br />
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I do think I am still not sewing things I will wear a lot. The jumper above is probably most likely to be worn, but it's not cold for very long here! I need to still hone in on items which will be worn most and suit my style best.<br />
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Finally, I have found the social aspect of the fast a bit meh. There are so many people doing the fast that the Facebook group is very "loud". It sort of swamped my feed for a while and I just started ignoring it. In addition, there are some very odd debates about "the rules" in the group - people posting to ask for exceptions, then others getting outraged they would want an exception, then others defending the exception etc. It just feels like people should make the fast work for them and be a bit less rigid about it. I am not sure what would work better for me - maybe some subgroups to let people connect a bit more? <br />
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Regardless, the fast is working for me as a spur to buy nothing and sew more, so that's great!deadlycrafthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12848285918829575767noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5927609878792304885.post-77901557772146130362018-04-12T13:20:00.000+10:002018-04-12T13:20:33.014+10:00My Me-Made-May PlanI have never done Me-Made-May before, but feel like this year I am finally ready to give it a go!<br />
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I will be blogging about my experience as a newbie over at <a href="https://sewcialists.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">The Sewcialists</a>, but will link back here also.<br />
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<b>Here is my pledge for signing up:</b><br />
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<i>I, Chloe of @chloe_deadlycraft(IG) and http:deadlycraft.blogspot.com, sign up as a participant of Me-Made-May '18. I endeavour to wear a handmade garment as many days as I can in May 2018, to wear each of my handmade items at least once and to make another version of something I already like to increase my TNT game!</i><br />
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I have a few considerations for MMM going on in that pledge and wanted to break them down a bit:<br />
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<b>Pledge Component 1. I want to wear handmade as many days as I can in May</b><br />
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This will be tricky - I split what I wear into workwear and more casual for at home. In both cases I don't have enough basics that can be worn more often: for example, I don't have a pair of plain black or grey work pants that I have made.<br />
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To complicate matters, I have a hen's weekend to go to in Tasmania, where it is cold! I don't have many cold weather items because they aren't much use here. I will have to get creative there...<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVsQIbCsR5O802HH92ye_MGTYLQvjir4AKNS_Nv3XglO84JOG5HYlC9zU6Yz5nXDuVELoBXRijg0D_fUeh8GrwS06tDfhHYJHmVx2O8pnS2BVblASW9v8JJthd6Qo1iLbRgOqCX_u21qc/s1600/Plan+-+Ames-COLLAGE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1160" data-original-width="1160" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVsQIbCsR5O802HH92ye_MGTYLQvjir4AKNS_Nv3XglO84JOG5HYlC9zU6Yz5nXDuVELoBXRijg0D_fUeh8GrwS06tDfhHYJHmVx2O8pnS2BVblASW9v8JJthd6Qo1iLbRgOqCX_u21qc/s640/Plan+-+Ames-COLLAGE.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Sasha, Ames, Harrison and Appleton</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><i>The plan for work wear:</i></b><br />
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<ul>
<li>Finish the <a href="https://www.cashmerette.com/collections/cashmerette-patterns/products/harrison-shirt-pdf-pattern" target="_blank">Cashmerette Harrison shirt </a>I have nearly complete (only needs buttons!)</li>
<li>Make a <a href="https://www.cashmerette.com/collections/cashmerette-patterns/products/appleton-dress-pdf-pattern" target="_blank">Cashmerette Appleton </a>out of a kit I have - I want to make the Appleton as a top for the wedding I am going to in August, so this is good "practice" for that make too!</li>
<li>Make a pair of <a href="https://store.closetcasepatterns.com/products/sasha-trousers-pattern" target="_blank">Closet Case Files Sasha Trousers</a></li>
</ul>
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<b><i>The plan for casual wear:</i></b><br />
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<br />
<br />
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<ul>
<li>Finish a third pair of <a href="https://www.paprikapatterns.com/shop/amber-trousers/" target="_blank">Paprika Patterns Amber Joggers</a> which are nearly complete </li>
<li>Sew the <a href="https://www.cashmerette.com/products/ames-jeans-pdf-pattern" target="_blank">Cashmerette Ames jeans</a> I cut out at the retreat I went to </li>
<li>Make a <a href="https://grainlinestudio.com/shop/women/linden-sweatshirt-paper/" target="_blank">Grainline Linden</a> (maybe) </li>
</ul>
PLUS - I have a couple of t-shirts / blouses that I want to copy.<br />
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There is WAY too much there, though to be fair - two items are nearly finished and one is at least underway, so perhaps this is doable...<br />
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<b>Pledge Component 2. I will wear each of my handmade items at least once</b><br />
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This is pretty easy - I don't have heaps and heaps and I am going to use this to force myself to repurpose or donate items I am really not wearing or don't like.<br />
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<b>Pledge Component 3 - I would like to make another version of something I already like to increase my TNT game</b><br />
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This doesn't really fit with the list I just made above :( I think I will add another <a href="https://www.paprikapatterns.com/shop/onyx-shirt/" target="_blank">Paprika Patterns Onyx top</a> in there if I can? Its a good simple-t-shirt-shape but actually a woven. Either that or I could try and make another <a href="https://www.namedclothing.com/shop/sointu-kimono-tee/" target="_blank">Named Patterns Sointu Kimono Tee</a>? I was a pattern tester for that one but it never got blogged. I made it out of a stiff fabric, and would like a much more drapey version.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidCj0YNfmg8LLN2LP2y5ai2CvbF10AYXCK_Ix7eSfeU-lvUEwky5A2guWNVvcu4pRbA9UaaR6w7mqY8-10Mo4C_GB0mBBCLQY-embtG8JZ-w9PUKq5d_XtrTp-vT5-GDbOjlWNltWikig/s1600/PLan+-+Sointu-COLLAGE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="469" data-original-width="625" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidCj0YNfmg8LLN2LP2y5ai2CvbF10AYXCK_Ix7eSfeU-lvUEwky5A2guWNVvcu4pRbA9UaaR6w7mqY8-10Mo4C_GB0mBBCLQY-embtG8JZ-w9PUKq5d_XtrTp-vT5-GDbOjlWNltWikig/s640/PLan+-+Sointu-COLLAGE.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Sointu and the Onyx</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
This probably means I won't make the Sasha Trousers or the Linden. We'll see how I go!<br />
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Am loving that this is giving a bit of focus to my planning. I am good at working to pattern test deadlines so hopefully this will spur me on!<br />
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Ciao for now.<br />
<br />
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<br />deadlycrafthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12848285918829575767noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5927609878792304885.post-90525714030079130582018-04-08T08:43:00.001+10:002018-04-08T08:43:07.642+10:00Paprika Patterns Jasper Crossover Collar - Pattern TestI am very lucky to have been able to test a fair few of the patterns from Paprika Patterns. I really like this pattern company - I like that they are small and independent, and that they produce patterns according to their own rhythm rather than "having" to release each season.<br />
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I also like their size inclusivity (though there is always more work to do on that score!) and the overall style of their clothes. They tend to be simple but cool, funky without being ridiculous or difficult to wear.<br />
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My latest pattern test for them was the crossover collar addition to their <a href="https://www.paprikapatterns.com/shop/jasper-sweaterdress/" target="_blank">Jasper sweatshirt / sweaterdress</a>. Here it is from their store:<br />
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<a href="https://www.paprikapatterns.com/app/uploads/2018/02/IMG_9833-680x453.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="453" data-original-width="680" height="424" src="https://www.paprikapatterns.com/app/uploads/2018/02/IMG_9833-680x453.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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and the line drawings<br />
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<a href="https://www.paprikapatterns.com/app/uploads/2018/02/Crossover_tech-36-680x921.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="591" height="640" src="https://www.paprikapatterns.com/app/uploads/2018/02/Crossover_tech-36-680x921.png" width="472" /></a></div>
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And here is my version:<br />
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Disclaimer: this is my pattern testing version. I know there were a few tweaks made in the final version, including to reduce the height of the collar.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTuD7iqLvybi8A41u_faBjcf7OMpeZ4fx_F5WnZduy-qMLWsffZXdIwB_B9g1W25QfTVN95BQXmFHIEIQDEfZ98siP35phwpQI8GYf7TeT-bX3VekKGFAqtrHgha6a6sSBbj-pXEYBAkE/s1600/IMG_20180203_152518.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTuD7iqLvybi8A41u_faBjcf7OMpeZ4fx_F5WnZduy-qMLWsffZXdIwB_B9g1W25QfTVN95BQXmFHIEIQDEfZ98siP35phwpQI8GYf7TeT-bX3VekKGFAqtrHgha6a6sSBbj-pXEYBAkE/s640/IMG_20180203_152518.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Second disclaimer: I look very unhappy (or at least uninterested) in these pictures. I am not! I love this jumper - it's a weird mesh fabric I got from The Fabric Store in Surrey Hills, which is blue on one side and white on the other. It's not super snuggly, which is great for Sydney.<br />
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Here I am (apparently unhappily) showing the three different ways the collar can be worn. In my version, which is a stiffish fabric, I can fold it over or stand it up if it's very cold. I imagine I will wear it the expected way most often, which is shown here at bottom right.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV9VmE_tHMFdcCXmfm3GlQEwbwDn5qrsa03WTXBrtrCZCs0-O87bfq8g9nx58nV64W9aDTDA4qutV9QbVwN4wmJOQ77uN-wK8621UD4AzZxX4Lldpgt-vEX5tDIbaEBI6FKFgBLJ1zg8o/s1600/IMG_20180203_151809-COLLAGE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV9VmE_tHMFdcCXmfm3GlQEwbwDn5qrsa03WTXBrtrCZCs0-O87bfq8g9nx58nV64W9aDTDA4qutV9QbVwN4wmJOQ77uN-wK8621UD4AzZxX4Lldpgt-vEX5tDIbaEBI6FKFgBLJ1zg8o/s640/IMG_20180203_151809-COLLAGE.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Side view, throwing shade:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeeKP6rWBU2wsUveQQVk88wX3x6EnUKxFEbgTFkvRawd65B33ZKCrE38Q839AdB-ZB1IBqQ7VUw6wH-1cnFM8dVBTGvvZXBrfTVar9q_9chiqF3SkjcEJrGbfyM0ZPe5w_jEcw5blQQZ0/s1600/IMG_20180203_152528.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeeKP6rWBU2wsUveQQVk88wX3x6EnUKxFEbgTFkvRawd65B33ZKCrE38Q839AdB-ZB1IBqQ7VUw6wH-1cnFM8dVBTGvvZXBrfTVar9q_9chiqF3SkjcEJrGbfyM0ZPe5w_jEcw5blQQZ0/s640/IMG_20180203_152528.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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And back view. <br />
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I did a smallish FBA on this version - I didn't on <a href="http://deadlycraft.blogspot.com.au/2015/03/jasper-sweater-dress-review-paprika.html" target="_blank">the previous version I made</a>, but in the stiffer fabric I think it was warranted.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5RxhKoltygv0D8fcoYy0_Y9LtMDisAMf_B8ngL3hx5zrzo9uGvBUGmZR08BC1GJocPXab1LCgjUhG6yAJuNFH0zyvb8nSfUPzMXp5fYDW1FcXtjR9nXqeRubCZrTuK_BfokTVTMzje0Y/s1600/IMG_20180203_152533.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5RxhKoltygv0D8fcoYy0_Y9LtMDisAMf_B8ngL3hx5zrzo9uGvBUGmZR08BC1GJocPXab1LCgjUhG6yAJuNFH0zyvb8nSfUPzMXp5fYDW1FcXtjR9nXqeRubCZrTuK_BfokTVTMzje0Y/s640/IMG_20180203_152533.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
Very happy with the new addition collar and my new jumper. I just need one with the hood now and I have the set!<br />
<br />
Ciao for now :)<br />
<br />deadlycrafthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12848285918829575767noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5927609878792304885.post-70571449504271159112018-01-07T15:49:00.000+11:002018-01-07T15:49:04.901+11:00Buying no clothes FOR A WHOLE YEAR! And my first make of 2018Holy guacamole. What have I done??!!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdE8YQHCS_rnRNer4969Y7U43oydVQoVQmeFhtPwS-5p4NO_kbu6MB4Dr8QrHugMl-AKxWkowN7458-oY59GIgbo9OFdBTxUDSFg04IDhx2sTYfcZCyKpLEX20pc7j4xAmyeRXcyk4Tdw/s1600/2018-RTWFast-copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="690" data-original-width="700" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdE8YQHCS_rnRNer4969Y7U43oydVQoVQmeFhtPwS-5p4NO_kbu6MB4Dr8QrHugMl-AKxWkowN7458-oY59GIgbo9OFdBTxUDSFg04IDhx2sTYfcZCyKpLEX20pc7j4xAmyeRXcyk4Tdw/s320/2018-RTWFast-copy.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I have signed up for the 2018 Goodbye Valentino Ready to Wear Fast - which means I won't be buying any clothes (shoes, accessories and underwear are excepted) for The. Whole. Year.<br />
<br />
I know that for lots of people this would be easy, but I don't churn out the makes like some. With two small kids and a demanding job...this could be crazy! Or it might be the best thing I have ever done. Let's go with that :)<br />
<br />
Meanwhile, the first make of 2018 is hot off the machine. It's the <a href="https://www.etsy.com/au/listing/225158323/billie-sizes-10-12-14-womens-drape-top" target="_blank">StyleArc Billie Top</a> (out of print but available still as a PDF). Unfortunately, I don't really like it.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjfBTNGapfnmSOM_QLjmhrh3eWlhFYGXGok5IuoEVlgL8zWhCX21D7mvy1_w6pjnKQOiBGMCa4MU-kxbafKZ035I127PZGZ3ABByHjOyTm-YHnmaYeSo1LwPfxhabBCyDjRCXJbfyQT5c/s1600/Billie+Top+Front.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjfBTNGapfnmSOM_QLjmhrh3eWlhFYGXGok5IuoEVlgL8zWhCX21D7mvy1_w6pjnKQOiBGMCa4MU-kxbafKZ035I127PZGZ3ABByHjOyTm-YHnmaYeSo1LwPfxhabBCyDjRCXJbfyQT5c/s400/Billie+Top+Front.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
It's sort of a muslin anyway, but the fabric is all wrong and as a result, it just looks a bit messy and not that flattering. Frankly, I have looked at this fabric ever since I bought it and wondered why I purchased it - totally not my style at all!<br />
<br />
I made this top because of Allison C's version(s) which she posted a bit over a year ago here: <a href="http://allisoncsewinggallery.blogspot.com.au/2016/">http://allisoncsewinggallery.blogspot.com.au/2016/</a>. I <b>loved </b>her sequin version.<br />
<br />
I do like the drape around the left arm:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx8TeKH3FZntjLanyWXz47eSaMMwywMr1pzPDBF_yHiwcKlr7GsKwALZGIWKkjKISPE_MjsQZU38PqGtuqYPgnBdQCY5IL-ysO4AepATqlZi57XgmsXzqo65UkVxpS_mnvZhMoP8ph-OI/s1600/Billie+Top+Left+Side.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx8TeKH3FZntjLanyWXz47eSaMMwywMr1pzPDBF_yHiwcKlr7GsKwALZGIWKkjKISPE_MjsQZU38PqGtuqYPgnBdQCY5IL-ysO4AepATqlZi57XgmsXzqo65UkVxpS_mnvZhMoP8ph-OI/s400/Billie+Top+Left+Side.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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<br />
Compared with the asymmetry of the right arm:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpUXEntmV-Ax_qPr8vc7gOc-7fdJXPEycTa6UWGEXX-aKwY_2vJcONooUYJz5R1-cCmcwUfw8q0ef7hNQ4uhlTpe3nT_6l7V_NHC69B9XV-tfugkMIKnaDu9jFs5Ow-ODcQdHcWCWA1ac/s1600/Billie+Top+Right+Side.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpUXEntmV-Ax_qPr8vc7gOc-7fdJXPEycTa6UWGEXX-aKwY_2vJcONooUYJz5R1-cCmcwUfw8q0ef7hNQ4uhlTpe3nT_6l7V_NHC69B9XV-tfugkMIKnaDu9jFs5Ow-ODcQdHcWCWA1ac/s400/Billie+Top+Right+Side.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
And it's quite comfortable to wear.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0EShyphenhyphenJCJBl94ARLGXuC4TcZd_jP3Z9aKAnXkwMI90HyIwcawGgsJxHVnVKAZNhK8oFLuBYwYIRXFQBknO2YJxza1s-VmGoyWF9YHhjtmiG6pj8GEgmWlODd2c3Oj6lqvxkQaxFt2Qi7M/s1600/Billie+Top+Front+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0EShyphenhyphenJCJBl94ARLGXuC4TcZd_jP3Z9aKAnXkwMI90HyIwcawGgsJxHVnVKAZNhK8oFLuBYwYIRXFQBknO2YJxza1s-VmGoyWF9YHhjtmiG6pj8GEgmWlODd2c3Oj6lqvxkQaxFt2Qi7M/s400/Billie+Top+Front+4.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
But it's driving me nuts every time I put it on. Allison C noted the very different effect she found in the two tops she made - not just from the fabric pattern but also from the weight of the drape. I think my fabric is a bit too spongy (if that makes sense) and it ends up looking like unintentional drape rather than deliberate.<br />
<br />
Plus the facing drives me totally nuts. I should have paid more attention to the post that inspired me to make this top and picked up that she made it with self binding instead of the facing. It flips out constantly and it super annoying.<br />
<br />
In summary...<br />
<br />
<b>Success? </b>No.<br />
<b>Why? </b>Fabric choice.<br />
<b>Make again? </b>Yes.<br />
<b>Changes: </b>different drape, raise right armhole significantly (1.5"), replace facing with self binding.<br />
<b>Notes: </b>probably make this in black which will make it a very useful top?<br />
<br />
I'll leave you with some excellent (not!) pictures of me trying to battle the wind...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGK35LCRELeCnksVgaU6tOVS9ymoa_2axwAPf6OlPSulK2OOeDwcyB5Z-jbd3fSD3oXlWnEOgUsTYsndw2GXNs1IU_opxaqyfRUGBRqMbpvWfuZYivTlSlPe15c_xd2b55AIQkPdAyEqg/s1600/Billie+Top+Front+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZvdkLKv3yaOWmKIYRqysCduRhcQ86Wygl5awRK_ZQdBTbN6Tr_2U4kLWoG0amRC1rZ5AqheOMtCmpckcLhBPx6PnJytdhfsHOD3dDqxjCXyYghOeHzDCU3OUHEh1VGL9Osg02d6UZVYc/s1600/Billie+Top+Front+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZvdkLKv3yaOWmKIYRqysCduRhcQ86Wygl5awRK_ZQdBTbN6Tr_2U4kLWoG0amRC1rZ5AqheOMtCmpckcLhBPx6PnJytdhfsHOD3dDqxjCXyYghOeHzDCU3OUHEh1VGL9Osg02d6UZVYc/s320/Billie+Top+Front+2.jpg" width="240" /></a><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGK35LCRELeCnksVgaU6tOVS9ymoa_2axwAPf6OlPSulK2OOeDwcyB5Z-jbd3fSD3oXlWnEOgUsTYsndw2GXNs1IU_opxaqyfRUGBRqMbpvWfuZYivTlSlPe15c_xd2b55AIQkPdAyEqg/s320/Billie+Top+Front+3.jpg" width="240" /></div>
<br />deadlycrafthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12848285918829575767noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5927609878792304885.post-76508929946608504012018-01-05T10:59:00.000+11:002018-01-05T10:59:05.337+11:00Top 5 - Goals for 2018!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFoIVPVmQmp_5QulGYNJdSc28Kz7r6UIGykn__qeW2vxR8KnWkaXdLcdBqzfZj_gbQCVFP7Ac-3-gNy0DLdTIjinoJxhfG3kamgykMuYg9vhA_fWlpPN-xwdyuLxHabP5H_EfpjAmonRI/s1600/Top+5+picture.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFoIVPVmQmp_5QulGYNJdSc28Kz7r6UIGykn__qeW2vxR8KnWkaXdLcdBqzfZj_gbQCVFP7Ac-3-gNy0DLdTIjinoJxhfG3kamgykMuYg9vhA_fWlpPN-xwdyuLxHabP5H_EfpjAmonRI/s400/Top+5+picture.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
A final post in the Top 5 series, playing along with Gillian from <a href="https://craftingarainbow.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Crafting a Rainbow</a>. <br />
<br />
The series is supposed to be 5 posts - hits, misses, highlights, reflections and goals. I have skipped highlights and reflections - as this is mostly a sewing blog and they are likely to end up as very similar content to the hits and misses (<b>Highlights:</b> sewing things which were hits because I wore them. <b>Reflections:</b> sew more hits and fewer misses...you see what I mean!).<br />
<br />
Goals, on the other hand, I can get on board with! So here are my goals for 2018:<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>1. Be more considered</b><br />
This means many things for me - one is to slow down a bit but to actually sew more. I think this looks something like:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><i><b>Sticking to plans -</b> </i>I often get distracted by signing up for pattern testing (which I LOVE doing). I need to be more disciplined and only sign up if the pattern will fit with my existing wardrobe, if I have fabric, if it fills a gap identified in my sewing plans already and so on.</li>
<li><b><i>Searching for more TNT patterns - </i></b>this was really highlighted for me by The Sewcialists TNT month when I realised I didn't have one! I get distracted by the next thing and don't spend a bit of time with a single pattern to make a few versions, get it right and have some items I am really satisfied with.</li>
<li><b><i>Doing things I have always wanted - </i></b>working methodically through the Dorothy Moore book I have (where you draft your own stuff according to your shape), sewing lingerie, making more jeans. These have been goals for the last <b><u>three</u> </b>years and I still haven't started!!!</li>
<li><b><i>Making some time - </i></b>if I am going to maintain this blog and use it to help me catalogue and chronicle what worked, what adjustments I made etc, I need to give it some dedicated time. Designating Tuesday night or Sunday morning as blog time might work for this?</li>
<li><b><i>Consuming less - </i></b>considering the fabric and patterns (especially the patterns!) I already have, before buying more. A bit of "make it work" wouldn't go astray... </li>
</ul>
<b>2. Take better photos</b><br />
This really means finding the right spot for pictures and not hurrying them. New house is awesome, but there is nowhere uncluttered with good light (inside or out) which seems to work. <br />
<br />
Plus we keep taking them at night or in a rush in the morning to meet testing deadlines. If that has to happen, I should go back and take better pictures later.<br />
<br />
No idea how to meet this one - suggestions welcome! Maybe I need a big plain drop sheet to hang up for photo time?<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>3. RTW Fast</b><br />
Not sure whether to be excited or scared about this one! I have never had enough handmade to do things like Me Made May or similar, but this year seems like I can handle the idea of making all my own clothes. I am joining in with the <a href="http://goodbyevalentino.com/tag/2018-ready-to-wear-fast/" target="_blank">Goodbye Valentino Fast</a>, as well as maybe also the <a href="https://sew-seamless.com/2018/01/01/the-seamless-pledge-2018/" target="_blank">Sew Seamless pledge</a> (because they are just about the same and therefore I can achieve doubly!)<br />
<br />
This links in nicely with goal #1 - I will need to consider what I <b><u>need</u></b> to make rather than just what I <b><u>want</u></b> to make. I think a wardrobe architect revisit will be on the cards, as well as a bit of Kon Marie tidying magic. If I have clothes I don't wear, I should donate them and replace them with items I will wear.<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>4. Engage with online community</b><br />
One of my <b>highlights </b>of 2017 (see what I did there?!) was being part of the Sewcialist blog team. I really enjoyed helping out with posts and round ups, and especially enjoyed the <a href="https://sewcialists.wordpress.com/2017/12/06/sewcialiststnt-stats-nerd-alert/" target="_blank">stats exercise I undertook</a> for the TNT month. I think this goal is really just to dedicate some more time to the Sewcialists but perhaps also trying to comment on blogs a little bit more? I comment freely on IG, but am somehow held back on a blog post. Given there is more effort in the post, it should be the other way around!!!<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>5. Teach (maybe)</b><br />
My daughter asked me to teach her to sew. She is ten and this made me very proud :)<br />
She did, of course, ask me just <b><i>after</i></b> I signed up to sew all my own clothes this year...<br />
Will I have time? I should make time - so as long as she doesn't lose interest, this will definitely be a goal for this year.<br />
<br />
That's it! I am going to write / print these out and hang them on the wall in the sewing area so I see them before the end of 2018 review comes around!<br />
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Ciao for now...<br />
<br />deadlycrafthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12848285918829575767noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5927609878792304885.post-34578458245648986312018-01-04T10:13:00.000+11:002018-01-04T10:13:01.193+11:00Top 5 - Misses of 2017 :(<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFoIVPVmQmp_5QulGYNJdSc28Kz7r6UIGykn__qeW2vxR8KnWkaXdLcdBqzfZj_gbQCVFP7Ac-3-gNy0DLdTIjinoJxhfG3kamgykMuYg9vhA_fWlpPN-xwdyuLxHabP5H_EfpjAmonRI/s1600/Top+5+picture.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFoIVPVmQmp_5QulGYNJdSc28Kz7r6UIGykn__qeW2vxR8KnWkaXdLcdBqzfZj_gbQCVFP7Ac-3-gNy0DLdTIjinoJxhfG3kamgykMuYg9vhA_fWlpPN-xwdyuLxHabP5H_EfpjAmonRI/s400/Top+5+picture.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Again, playing along with Gillian from <a href="https://craftingarainbow.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Crafting a Rainbow</a> to reflect on 2017.<br />
<br />
I am happy to report I stuggled to list five misses, and there are also a couple of "we'll see" items. Plus the misses seem to be down to fabric choice, rather than a fit issue or not liking the pattern.<br />
<br />
So here we go:<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>1. My photos</b><br />
<br />
The photos I took (or rather my husband took) in 2017 were rubbish. We don't have a good area in our new house with a nice clean background and good light. Inside is took dark, outside is too cluttered.<br />
<br />
A lot of the photos this year were super rushed or at stupid times like at night - getting pattern test feedback photos in but also working full time and having those deadlines just didn't work well for me.<br />
<br />
I don't know how to easily fix this, but am going to try!<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>2. <a href="https://byhandlondon.com/products/anna-dress" target="_blank">Anna Dress (By Hand London)</a></b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDRklOzIgOHS1hg97FdzzYRrCV5gntlVbc0s46bfi77J0R337qyi3GOiIcTgnlZItbEl7js8FDLYGHjSJkIBUlIOeUsxKB-PUw1m1kiKsqhhxBDbA73zpkIsLjmtKhVIdaS-iT5FFa2VE/s1600/BHLAnna.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1201" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDRklOzIgOHS1hg97FdzzYRrCV5gntlVbc0s46bfi77J0R337qyi3GOiIcTgnlZItbEl7js8FDLYGHjSJkIBUlIOeUsxKB-PUw1m1kiKsqhhxBDbA73zpkIsLjmtKhVIdaS-iT5FFa2VE/s400/BHLAnna.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
Exhibit A for how crappy the photos have been this year...<br />
<br />
I made this one for the first ever Sydney frocktails. I hesitated to list it as a miss - the fabric is a gorgeous liberty print silk and I get compliments when I wear it. I really love the colour and the fit is reasonable. It's mostly a miss because I cocked it up and stretched out the fabric at the centre back where the zip is. It can be hidden with a cunning safety pin, but I know it's there and it makes me cross every time I put it on!<br />
<br />
<b>3. <a href="https://sinclairpatterns.com/product/amaya-asymmetrical-knit-pencil-skirt-pdf-sewing-pattern/" target="_blank">Amaya Skirt (Sinclair Patterns)</a></b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieZHP6VpScKw-GS_4lLtBxmxYFczI95r6N6KYeTbLywjsbiyy-YilTwicdORZgX8he1vrRiz-aikR7CjJ7GWGkUoAn_yLwSAlZBzMCFvUM4AYGOg1iUPqwnOrwJk7THtRhsLt2BH6oiSs/s1600/AmayaSkirt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1201" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieZHP6VpScKw-GS_4lLtBxmxYFczI95r6N6KYeTbLywjsbiyy-YilTwicdORZgX8he1vrRiz-aikR7CjJ7GWGkUoAn_yLwSAlZBzMCFvUM4AYGOg1iUPqwnOrwJk7THtRhsLt2BH6oiSs/s320/AmayaSkirt.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
I hesitated to include this in the misses also. It's a nice skirt and comfortable, but I haven't worn it at all. I do think that might be because we live in Sydney and it's been nice weather just about ever since I made it. I also think that while having a black skirt was a good idea in theory, it's a bit sombre for here.<br />
<br />
Probably should be in the "we'll see" pile for now...<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>4. <a href="https://rebecca-page.com/product/ladies-portia-full-version/" target="_blank">Portia Dress (Rebecca Paige)</a></b><br />
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I still kind of like this one, but my husband said it was very "old" looking. I suspect it needs to be shorter, or I might even cut it off into a top?<br />
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The other issue is that it's made of gorgeous stretch velvet and is WAAAAAY too hot for Sydney summer. Will see if it works any better in the "depths" of winter...<br />
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<b>The We'll See Items:</b><br />
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5. <a href="https://butterick.mccall.com/b6051" target="_blank">Butterick B6051 Craftsy Kit</a><br />
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I definitely like this and am not sure why it's not a hit. I just haven't reached for it much so far this summer. I did wear it a fair bit on holiday in Italy, so am going to make an effort for the rest of summer and then call it one way or the other.<br />
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6. <a href="https://sinclairpatterns.com/product/macy-stretch-knit-semi-fitted-cowl-neck-top-sewing-pattern-pdf/" target="_blank">Macy Cowl Top (Sinclair Patterns)</a><br />
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This one is only really about fabric choice. I like the pattern and the fit of this on me, I just find the fabric a bit bleh. I should make another in something better, as this works well in the work wardrobe or with jeans, so it will be quite versatile in a fabric I like!<br />
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So there it is! The "misses" of 2017. Mostly they are "not really sures" rather than misses, which is good. Am going to use what I have learned from these to hopefully guide my sewing better this year too!deadlycrafthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12848285918829575767noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5927609878792304885.post-5810291626004238222018-01-03T09:41:00.000+11:002018-01-03T09:41:17.812+11:00Top 5 - Hits of 2017!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Joining in with Gillian at <a href="https://craftingarainbow.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Crafting a Rainbow</a> to post a couple of reflective posts for 2017.<br />
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2017 was a funny sewing year for me - I pretty much didn't blog at all, and what I made was mostly pattern tests. I think that reflects what felt like the busiest year yet and am trying not to beat myself up about all the stuff I didn't make that I wanted to!<br />
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2018 is hopefully going to be more considered making, especially as I have signed up for the <a href="http://goodbyevalentino.com/tag/2018-ready-to-wear-fast/" target="_blank">Goodbye Valentino RTW Fas</a>t! No clothes shopping for me...argh!<br />
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Without further ado - here are the garments I think were my five "hits" of 2017:<br />
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<b>1. <a href="https://sinclairpatterns.com/product/reese-classic-shift-dress-for-woven-fabrics-pdf-pattern/" target="_blank">Reece Shift Dress (Sinclair Patterns)</a></b><br />
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I LOVE this dress. I don't like wearing dresses but wear this to work all the time. It makes me feel smart and professional (even though it needs a press in the second picture!) and is really well suited to the Sydney climate.<br />
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As someone who recently swore off making dresses to try and find myself a true TNT, I might sneak in another version of this soon.<br />
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Its made in a lovely striped metallic linen and the bottom edge is the raw selvage, which adds a bit of cool...<br />
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<b>2. <a href="https://www.paprikapatterns.com/shop/ruby-joggers/" target="_blank">Ruby Joggers (Paprika Patterns)</a></b><br />
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Comfortable, flattering and available in two lengths - I love these. I am still tweaking fit, but have already called these my first ever TNT because I wear them so much and have plans for more!<br />
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(Disclaimer: the red ones were made in 2016 but it's my blog, so I don't care!). I think the red one's look better as they are a lovely french terry which is a bit thicker than the blue and white fabric. luckily I have some green terry ready for another pair!<br />
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<b>3. <a href="https://sewing.patternreview.com/Patterns/17402" target="_blank">Burda 7780 - Men's Coat</a></b><br />
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This was a special request from my husband for a particular style and type of coat. Sydney is a weird place to live as it's very rarely cold but when it rains, it rains big time. He wanted something to be a bit of a wind break, a bit waterproof but not too warm.<br />
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Special shout out to the dintex fabric this is made out of (<a href="https://threadtheory.ca/collections/fall-fabric-collection-base-layers-and-outerwear" target="_blank">I bought this at Thread Theory and there seems to be a range of colours in stock atm</a>). This sews like an absolute dream - and Nick reports it's both waterproof and breathable - mission accomplished!<br />
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<b>4. <a href="https://sinclairpatterns.com/product/alexis-relaxed-fit-hoodie-dress-pdf-sewing-pattern/" target="_blank">Alexis Hooded Dress (Sinclair Patterns)</a></b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIDfhwVix2tX7IXmcdARRXnFc1LgE3g_EhGNsnRssZLZV5mZvkePzbKP66RRNYOUDjmiozXKbwiFiL-Jbzeplf2AOcc_9HQ2u7dX8LjfRh3yZZkJc_1lfgxmhu5kW-v8fg1LzPmZoncdE/s1600/HoodedDress.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1201" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIDfhwVix2tX7IXmcdARRXnFc1LgE3g_EhGNsnRssZLZV5mZvkePzbKP66RRNYOUDjmiozXKbwiFiL-Jbzeplf2AOcc_9HQ2u7dX8LjfRh3yZZkJc_1lfgxmhu5kW-v8fg1LzPmZoncdE/s400/HoodedDress.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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I expected to cut this off into a short sleeved hoodie but won't be. It's another one perfect for Sydney weather due to the cropped sleeve (the pattern has options for full also). I got a lot of compliments on this one and am looking forward to wearing it more when it cools off here.<br />
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<b>5. One each for the kids (self-designed dress and <a href="https://oliverands.com/shop/sketchbook-shirt-shorts-sewing-pattern.html" target="_blank">Oliver+S Sketchbook Shirt</a>)</b><br />
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The dress gets in here because it was designed by my ten year old daughter and mostly hand sewn on our Italian holiday (including a hand shirred back!). She chose all the fabrics and drew what she wanted - it's lovely to see her finding her own style, especially when it's very different to mine!<br />
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The shirt looked great on the smallest person, but he grew out of it within about ten minutes. I will try and make him another one soon.<br />
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<b>Honourable Mentions:</b><br />
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6. <a href="https://sinclairpatterns.com/product/stella-layered-woven-top-pdf-sewing-pattern/" target="_blank">Stella Top (Sinclair Patterns)</a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijLP-jWwPFEO-wpVYtjF94_pRHI7UfX7M5HWz7ko44Yx_txYJfLT21Dm-RzQ_UojYxcvnFfWEkwzhFtVgD6VHEWHatRBsYYjx3Rv3V-4VRbvZ0hwuM5CQZ-6nCdNGfGuignvumwdT-9yQ/s1600/SwingTop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1201" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijLP-jWwPFEO-wpVYtjF94_pRHI7UfX7M5HWz7ko44Yx_txYJfLT21Dm-RzQ_UojYxcvnFfWEkwzhFtVgD6VHEWHatRBsYYjx3Rv3V-4VRbvZ0hwuM5CQZ-6nCdNGfGuignvumwdT-9yQ/s320/SwingTop.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWk7UNN1yKIusFFurspCZ30FfdVP6MKs3JH3FMvyx_2zy_7eZKKfASLAoQSnhMMdpDwok5XxJA90vM4zQjgu8x2N9vpb3gYRrzc_et2CKxHW4jlCTFUMJLBrjILT0RKCOwKqlgLhrGQEQ/s1600/SwingTopFront.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1201" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWk7UNN1yKIusFFurspCZ30FfdVP6MKs3JH3FMvyx_2zy_7eZKKfASLAoQSnhMMdpDwok5XxJA90vM4zQjgu8x2N9vpb3gYRrzc_et2CKxHW4jlCTFUMJLBrjILT0RKCOwKqlgLhrGQEQ/s320/SwingTopFront.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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I am not sure this is the most flattering top ever, but I always feel good wearing it and it feels cool and floaty in the Sydney heat.<br />
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7. <a href="https://sinclairpatterns.com/product/grace-box-pleated-lined-woven-skirt-with-pockets-pdf-sewing-pattern/" target="_blank">Grace Pleated Skirt (Sinclair Patterns)</a><br />
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This was only finished recently, so am not sure yet whether it will be high rotation, but I love the fabric and the pattern itself. I don't have anything else like it in my wardrobe either.<br />
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So that's my best 5 of 2017 (or technically more like 8 but whatever!). There is a dominance of Sinclair Patterns as I did a lot of testing for them this year - I really like their patterns. They are mostly simple but stylish at the same time, and not usually over complicated or difficult to make. I would recommend them and in fact all of the patterns in this post.<br />
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Ciao for now!<br />
<br />deadlycrafthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12848285918829575767noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5927609878792304885.post-25275135038666682392017-10-21T13:00:00.000+11:002017-10-21T13:00:04.281+11:00Bringing blogging back!My last post was April 2016. Oops!<br />
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Why have I not blogged for so long? Because this is my 200th post! Hurray for me :) Except I got all overexcited by it, wanted to change the blog look and feel and then spent literally months waiting for husbandly assistance and lost impetus and interest.<br />
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*<b>facepalm</b>*<br />
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After writing a post for the Sewcialists blog I realised I was missing it a bit, so I changed the look and feel myself (#girlpower) and am back to sporadically blog about stuff I make. Lucky you...<br />
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While I was away, I did not lose interest in sewing however. To avoid boring you with old posts you will have seen on Instagram anyway, here is handy catch-up collage:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF__G6iZBkpznhGH9xhS-2FS0yRtoU5OveaXj35Y4fj3yk_nwB4Yzv7ty8hlPm7fGsbBbojn9EDXJiYQULfF_Q7qYFrO6tymJ2ztCMHPj1nTSjSzWhJLv1gMwxDOhOH2OrnyEB2pJA9-A/s1600/collage-2017-10-21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF__G6iZBkpznhGH9xhS-2FS0yRtoU5OveaXj35Y4fj3yk_nwB4Yzv7ty8hlPm7fGsbBbojn9EDXJiYQULfF_Q7qYFrO6tymJ2ztCMHPj1nTSjSzWhJLv1gMwxDOhOH2OrnyEB2pJA9-A/s640/collage-2017-10-21.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I am not the most prolific sewer, but that's a fair output in a year where we moved house and work got even busier.<br />
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There are a couple of stand outs in there for me:<br />
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<ul>
<li>Nick got lucky with a new raincoat (Burda 7780), a <a href="https://threadtheory.ca/products/fairfield-button-up-shirt" target="_blank">Thread Theory Fairfield shirt</a> in a buffalo check and a new pair of jeans made from a RTW pair that he liked the fit of.</li>
<li>Several pattern tests for <a href="https://sinclairpatterns.com/" target="_blank">Sinclair Patterns</a> which are in the top row (the Reece shift, the Amaya knit skirt and the Macy knit top).</li>
<li>A couple of Named pattern tests too from the <a href="https://www.namedclothing.com/collection/evolution-theory/" target="_blank">Evolution Theory collection</a> (Tuuli bodysuit and Sointu tee).</li>
<li>A <a href="https://byhandlondon.com/" target="_blank">By Hand London</a> Anna and an Alix.</li>
<li><a href="https://www.paprikapatterns.com/shop/amber-trousers/" target="_blank">Paprika Patterns Amber trousers</a> (they are in the bottom right). I love these pants - they are comfortable and look pretty great.</li>
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So not a bad haul overall, considering it's been a busy year. There are a few "fails" in there - like the Style Arc Mila (bottom row, selfie in the mirror) that never made it past a muslin.</div>
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What felt like my most "impressive" make out of the lot was this dress:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS4onR0_JxqHHtF4oTbkpGPSJ8FDgnd3bJX_kSqzoMaEUXb_cBPFDFeOlFKUcOtv6eFWhWRbDzt_xmXV7QufEk1vKMuWDg4F1W9K4FrlsKyUOuW1UJebpfd6FJU15IxA8q9_NzZOKdfEs/s1600/IMG_20160402_174312.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="587" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS4onR0_JxqHHtF4oTbkpGPSJ8FDgnd3bJX_kSqzoMaEUXb_cBPFDFeOlFKUcOtv6eFWhWRbDzt_xmXV7QufEk1vKMuWDg4F1W9K4FrlsKyUOuW1UJebpfd6FJU15IxA8q9_NzZOKdfEs/s640/IMG_20160402_174312.jpg" width="234" /></a></div>
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It's a <a href="https://blog.colettehq.com/inspiration/the-colette-sewing-handbook-the-truffle-and-licorice-dresses" target="_blank">Colette patterns Licorice dress </a>from one of their books. It fits really well (go princess seams!) and it's from the world's most gorgeous laser printed silk that I bought at <a href="http://tessuti.com.au/" target="_blank">Tessuti fabrics</a>. I do wear this a fair bit and get a lot of complements for it, which is nice.</div>
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However, the current TNT month over at The Sewcialists got me thinking about why I don't have a TNT pattern myself. I wrote an article as part of TNT month on this topic, <a href="https://sewcialists.wordpress.com/2017/10/16/catching-the-unicorn/" target="_blank">which you can find here</a>. I won't reproduce the content here, except to say that my new mission is to find a TNT (or three!).</div>
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So that's likely to be the theme of this blog for the next while - finding a TNT for me, interspersed with other ramblings and the odd pattern test. Hope it's of interest.</div>
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Ciao for now!</div>
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deadlycrafthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12848285918829575767noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5927609878792304885.post-18781624317042266322016-04-24T11:20:00.000+10:002016-04-24T11:20:09.391+10:00Named Astrid Wrap Shorts - Pattern Test I absolutely love the new collection from <a href="https://www.namedclothing.com/ss16-royals/" target="_blank">Named called Royals</a>. I was lucky to have the opportunity to test the <a href="https://www.namedclothing.com/shop/astrid-wrap-shorts/" target="_blank">Astrid Wrap Shorts</a>, which is a two in one pattern of either shorts or full length wide legged pants.<br />
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Here are the versions on the Named site:<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<img height="400" src="https://www.namedclothing.com/woostore/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/Astrid_Front.jpg" width="266" /><img height="400" src="https://www.namedclothing.com/woostore/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/Astrid-Shorts.jpg" width="266" /></div>
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The pattern was clear and easy to follow. The only tricky part was ensuring the place where the wrap starts is nice and neat.<br />
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I made my version out of some cream herringbone linen I bought in Tessuti Melbourne several years ago:<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKM376oGpacy09xib_K36H2b6mHgaH0oPlej4Qqp9y0-WCN9DMUL-6eMuA8430mBQWwVdcLRfQUN_waElyH2Fzf-33uDU_ky1VVZDNJK3rmvBSJQMg1KXDJuf8OndzpjuxhYJfMQdrbrk/w891-h1187-no/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKM376oGpacy09xib_K36H2b6mHgaH0oPlej4Qqp9y0-WCN9DMUL-6eMuA8430mBQWwVdcLRfQUN_waElyH2Fzf-33uDU_ky1VVZDNJK3rmvBSJQMg1KXDJuf8OndzpjuxhYJfMQdrbrk/w891-h1187-no/" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not sure what my face is doing here...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
And here is the front:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL-gATvhAMS6pMhZgfAy2yvECx2xxXZxwCZz5krfOIaXpP2AEep2HHdgiDrKZe-OH24_252H-qCBsMsLdDSq00itIGfvQ9CSuPr1bk-03d9V-r2Xn1DOPG-Xl0cKX-EirAXUf-Dk_Ev9Q/w1583-h1187-no/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL-gATvhAMS6pMhZgfAy2yvECx2xxXZxwCZz5krfOIaXpP2AEep2HHdgiDrKZe-OH24_252H-qCBsMsLdDSq00itIGfvQ9CSuPr1bk-03d9V-r2Xn1DOPG-Xl0cKX-EirAXUf-Dk_Ev9Q/w1583-h1187-no/" width="400" /></a></div>
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back:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO5zHB0fQX37Ln2ZrFg0kunXHWtoy-X82NxazfPJHM8DxytI6faARQobU60IeN7PR5ZjtWWdRqxee63xhhdWvvdB2yXej-zIKtdb1SnfR5N3QYNsGYMEWVhTpyevKWT4Yrv8fKEHY6ogo/w1583-h1187-no/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO5zHB0fQX37Ln2ZrFg0kunXHWtoy-X82NxazfPJHM8DxytI6faARQobU60IeN7PR5ZjtWWdRqxee63xhhdWvvdB2yXej-zIKtdb1SnfR5N3QYNsGYMEWVhTpyevKWT4Yrv8fKEHY6ogo/w1583-h1187-no/" width="400" /></a></div>
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and side, where the tie is:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyyckU9dSLIpIADMqU4jLnzlPyUP-H2EACdfO11Mtn7PZraZycBdtyIqASG9_2b0UM2xatkLTMdFIa5mJYdw18tZrObh3u4osGtfUOMUn-yS8lnjoWtOydwihAwUKAmOuNI_fxRwQIHik/w1583-h1187-no/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyyckU9dSLIpIADMqU4jLnzlPyUP-H2EACdfO11Mtn7PZraZycBdtyIqASG9_2b0UM2xatkLTMdFIa5mJYdw18tZrObh3u4osGtfUOMUn-yS8lnjoWtOydwihAwUKAmOuNI_fxRwQIHik/w1583-h1187-no/" width="400" /></a></div>
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I love these shorts. I am not sure the plain linen is the best fabric to use for visual impact, but they are super comfortable and a good weight for Sydney.<br />
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I did have a sizing issue in that they turned out quite a bit larger than expected, which means I need to pull the tie tighter and makes it look messy. As this was a pattern test I would not take this as necessarily true of the released pattern, and I will confess that I haven't checked the final release to see if the sizing is different.<br />
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I would like to make these again in a lighter weight fabric in the pants version - again I think they will be great for Sydney winter. I will definitely also be getting some of the other patterns from this collection - lots of lovely designs!<br />
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Ciao for now!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfkp3MJNvEvN1AcQOVjerrd9DLWFT5NQCty9ARBx5GucaMJdsDGdQy00i1FpVVhcq_ZI5DsNhF420aA13Duq1lfLWB5fB_50VFolnG01XtwJS0XNF55Xl_nAbj_53jitt0OFP0r15lkhI/w891-h1187-no/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfkp3MJNvEvN1AcQOVjerrd9DLWFT5NQCty9ARBx5GucaMJdsDGdQy00i1FpVVhcq_ZI5DsNhF420aA13Duq1lfLWB5fB_50VFolnG01XtwJS0XNF55Xl_nAbj_53jitt0OFP0r15lkhI/w891-h1187-no/" width="298" /></a></div>
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<br />deadlycrafthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12848285918829575767noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5927609878792304885.post-19214915173606775492016-03-03T21:01:00.000+11:002016-03-03T21:01:10.171+11:00Zircon Sweater / Dress - Paprika Patterns (pattern test)I was very happy to pattern test the <a href="https://www.paprikapatterns.com/shop/zircon-sweaterdress/" target="_blank">Zircon Sweater/Dress</a> a while back (I never got around to blogging it after the release). This pattern is super cool! The distinctive yoke and side cut outs are pretty unique and a great excuse to experiment with colour blocking or different fabrics or textures.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.paprikapatterns.com/app/uploads/2015/12/IMG_3693-333x500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://www.paprikapatterns.com/app/uploads/2015/12/IMG_3693-333x500.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(image from Paprika Patterns website)</td></tr>
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I decided to make the sweater version in a weird synthetic mock fair isle fabric I got from fabric.com years ago and had never used. It's hard to see in the pictures but it has kind of little hearts on it. I think it wasn't quite the right knit for this - the yoke lends itself to more stability than this fabric has.<br />
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I initially made the version with sleeves. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGXh83HOZPbAXAnWO8TOprB2JBMTHAiOai94633iE5js3bBe4cWG1_7FHEfjxTPuaZnZSrtcCZlj9Wnl3rh3B_TBwBEuezzxlY2MO3F0tWdjzXWAZ8Sf6idLsp_3QjUATI5y2qGBZjOek/w233-h310-no/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGXh83HOZPbAXAnWO8TOprB2JBMTHAiOai94633iE5js3bBe4cWG1_7FHEfjxTPuaZnZSrtcCZlj9Wnl3rh3B_TBwBEuezzxlY2MO3F0tWdjzXWAZ8Sf6idLsp_3QjUATI5y2qGBZjOek/w233-h310-no/" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sorry for the terrible quality picture</td></tr>
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I should note up front that the sleeves have been redrafted to be slimmer since the tester version, which is a much cleaner look I think. I also hadn't hemmed this yet and one of the sleeves is shorter than the other (as I was going to make into a sleeveless version after testing).<br />
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I took the odd heart fabric and used the wrong side, rotated by 90 degrees, for the yoke. It looks much cooler in person - I promise :)<br />
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Then I took the sleeves off:<br />
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Aaand I like it a lot more. There seems to be less pulling from the chest (I should have done an FBA) and I still love the yoke even when it's chopped off before the epaulette part.<br />
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This photo probably shows the fabric in most detail (it tends to mess with the camera a bit...)<br />
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There are lots of lovely tester versions out there also - many people used solid ponte type knit fabrics and colour blocked the yoke, which looks great! The versions that Lisa from Paprika Patterns has made (<a href="https://www.paprikapatterns.com/shop/zircon-sweaterdress/" target="_blank">here</a>) are also all stupidly lovely.<br />
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It's a great summer top - casual, but with some interest from the yoke. I could see myself making the dress version if I still lived in Tassie or the UK for winter too.<br />
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Ciao for now...<br />
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<br />deadlycrafthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12848285918829575767noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5927609878792304885.post-73333661148711113562016-02-28T15:42:00.000+11:002016-02-28T15:42:08.886+11:00Ultimate Art Organiser Case - Sew Sweetness Patterns (Pattern Test)Following up from the absolutely awesome Creative Maker Supply Case, Sara at Sew Sweetness released the <a href="http://sewsweetness.com/2016/02/ultimate-art-organizer.html" target="_blank">Ultimate Art Organiser</a>. It's a similar case to the Creative Maker, but with multiple zipped sections.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR-uQ84qiEkbCQTJx6xBpZX-MFydL-l3guxYCVGrZQSuDXv-RpymtH-cwrkrt3DPrrbyEnhhVG23lZuLD3Z6yG8wba61bhTUY63F6bv6g9vyfhAEPXAy1Xp8qcttleTNuaj6KIU8yzDWo/s1600/Ultimate-Art-Organizer-Web-Cover-550x712.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR-uQ84qiEkbCQTJx6xBpZX-MFydL-l3guxYCVGrZQSuDXv-RpymtH-cwrkrt3DPrrbyEnhhVG23lZuLD3Z6yG8wba61bhTUY63F6bv6g9vyfhAEPXAy1Xp8qcttleTNuaj6KIU8yzDWo/s640/Ultimate-Art-Organizer-Web-Cover-550x712.jpg" width="494" /></a></div>
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This one only comes in the two smaller sizes, as the large one would hold so much stuff it would be ridiculous (and it might just collapse under it's own weight!!).<br />
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This testing call was perfectly timed for me to make a special present for a lady who was retiring from my work. I knew she had always wanted a set of the gorgeous wooden Symfonie circular knitting needles, and this was the perfect case to store them in.<br />
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I knew she liked batiks from a trip we made to the Sydney Quilt and Craft show a while back, so I used the leftovers from <a href="http://deadlycraft.blogspot.com.au/2012/03/end-of-quilt-marathon-mums-zen-quilt.html" target="_blank">my mum's quilt</a> and pieced the outside.<br />
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There are lots of zip parts and pockets<br />
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As well as even more pockets - to hold the cables, stitch markers etc.<br />
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I would definitely say this is one of Sara's most tricky patterns. The triple zip factor is pretty hard to sew, and I did end up hand stitching in a few places as I just couldn't get it neat. I would also recommend NOT using metal zips - it just makes your life harder! I had no choice because Spotlight is a truly terrible shop and never has a consistent stock that you can rely on...<br />
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However, despite my supply tribulations, I loved the end result on this one and the recipient was so very happy with her gift that it made it very worthwhile!<br />
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Ciao for now...<br />
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<br />deadlycrafthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12848285918829575767noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5927609878792304885.post-20899663462781104632016-02-26T21:15:00.000+11:002016-02-26T21:15:06.137+11:00Shorter version of Birkin Flares I was a second round tester for the <a href="http://www.basteandgather.com/shop/birkin-flares" target="_blank">Birkin Flares from Baste and Gather</a> and <a href="http://deadlycraft.blogspot.com.au/2015/12/birkin-flares-pattern-test.html" target="_blank">loved them</a>. Being in Oz, I wanted a pair which I could wear now without expiring from heat stroke. This is where I ended up:<br />
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They look horribly creased here, but they actually don't look that way as much in person. They are made from a dark grey/black coated denim from Tessuti, of which there was only just enough left to eek out these shorts-cum-culottes.<br />
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I made my first Birkins slightly too lose in the waist / hip (due to fear of them being too tight...) and was determined not to made that mistake again and seriously pulled these in across the hips etc. Not sure if it was too much or whether they are slightly too tight - though they are very comfortable.<br />
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The pulling just under the seat here might mean they are a bit tight? I don't know...I fiddled with the a lot to reduce that and am pretty happy anyway.<br />
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I did want to make these wider legged but it really really didn't suit the fabric. I think perhaps in a thicker denim (this is quite thin, but coated, so it creases annoying...) that might work? All I really did in the end was reduce some of the adjustments to make them larger in the waist area, then cut them off under the knee and try and straighten out the more curvy line of the original Birkin leg.<br />
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I like them, wear them a fair bit and don't think I am done with this pattern yet!<br />
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Ciao for now...<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I really must work out how to get some better pictures of these!!!</td></tr>
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deadlycrafthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12848285918829575767noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5927609878792304885.post-81842612166655738082016-02-24T15:58:00.000+11:002016-02-24T15:58:06.984+11:00Sewaholic Oakridge Blouse (Craftsy kit)I will confess to having bought a fair few kits from places like Craftsy and Style Arc, where you get the pattern as well as sufficient fabric to make the item. I like this approach in theory, as I always tend to overbuy fabric and end up with just enough leftover to make me reluctant to throw it away, but not enough to make anything out of it. In practice, I haven't actually <i style="font-weight: bold;">made</i> a lot of these kits into clothes, so it's often just more in the stash. Oops :)<br />
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This one is a the <a href="http://www.sewaholicpatterns.com/oakridge-blouse/" target="_blank">Sewaholic Oakridge</a> with some Cotton and Steel rayon fabric (<a href="http://www.craftsy.com/supplies/sewaholic-oakridge-blouse-kit-indigo/16899" target="_blank">here</a> - for as long as it's available I guess). I modified the pattern to be sleeveless - because I live in Sydney and sleeves aren't needed for most of the year.<br />
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I did an FBA and also lengthened the blouse by a fair bit. I think it's actually too long now, as I can only wear it with certain skirts / trousers without it looking odd. I do wear it tucked in a lot for work, but haven't got a picture of that.<br />
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I made this while I was back in Tassie for Christmas. My parents are moving back to the UK and my mother pulled out the antique button stash and gave me whatever I wanted to take - which was awesome! She had these gorgeous buttons, which is what I ended up using on the blouse and which look great!<br />
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I love this blouse. It's cool (both literally and figuratively), easy to wear and dress up or down and I feel very comfortable in it.<br />
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I plan to make another of these very soon - so might try and get better pictures of that one, as well as making it slightly shorter to increase the wearability!<br />
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Ciao for now...<br />
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<br />deadlycrafthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12848285918829575767noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5927609878792304885.post-72218642116146071922016-02-21T15:22:00.000+11:002016-02-21T15:22:08.011+11:00Creative Maker Supply Case - Sew Sweetness patterns (Pattern Test)I could have sworn I blogged this already - but apparently not! <br />
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I was lucky enough to be a pattern tester for the <a href="http://sewsweetness.com/2015/07/creative-maker-supply-case.html" target="_blank">Creative Maker Supply Case </a>from Sew Sweetness patterns. It's probably no secret that I love Sara's patterns, and this one was no exception. <br />
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I would say this would be advanced-beginner and up, in skill terms. There are a few fiddly bits with the zip and you need to go carefully and slowly to make it work nicely.<br />
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The pattern is intended to hold some art-y type supplies and comes in three sizes, as shown on the pattern cover:<br />
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We were just gearing up to head overseas when the pattern came out, so I decided to go off piste and make these into lego travel kits for the kids. I used super cool echino fabrics for the outside:<br />
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and inside, there was a mixture of things to do:<br />
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The mesh pouch was great for holding the instructions and plastic bags which come inside the box of lego. I was able to put two of the smaller kits into these, along with a colouring book and their tablets - amazing amount of activity stuff for one case!<br />
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Instead of going all the pencil slots, I designed a place for a lego matt and some people to be stored on the right, so they could open this up on the plane tray table and build the lego onto the mat. Worked a treat!<br />
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For Isabelle's lego, I experimented with a see-through vinyl pouch to hold the lego pieces while you work. She likes the Lego Friends range, which comes with a variety of extremely small pieces, like hair bows or carrots...<br />
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I am not sure how successful the pouch was. It looks a bit messy, and could probably have done with a zip or something to close it. Having said that, none of the lego escaped, so perhaps it was a success!<br />
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I really enjoyed making these and the kids were blown away. I kept them as a surprise and they were a very welcome distraction on the second loooong flight between Australia and the UK :)<br />
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Ciao for now...<br />
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deadlycrafthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12848285918829575767noreply@blogger.com0