Joining in with Gillian at Crafting a Rainbow to post a couple of reflective posts for 2017.
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!
2018 is hopefully going to be more considered making, especially as I have signed up for the Goodbye Valentino RTW Fast! No clothes shopping for me...argh!
Without further ado - here are the garments I think were my five "hits" of 2017:
1. Reece Shift Dress (Sinclair Patterns)
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.
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.
Its made in a lovely striped metallic linen and the bottom edge is the raw selvage, which adds a bit of cool...
2. Ruby Joggers (Paprika Patterns)
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!
(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!
3. Burda 7780 - Men's Coat
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.
Special shout out to the dintex fabric this is made out of (I bought this at Thread Theory and there seems to be a range of colours in stock atm). This sews like an absolute dream - and Nick reports it's both waterproof and breathable - mission accomplished!
4. Alexis Hooded Dress (Sinclair Patterns)
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.
5. One each for the kids (self-designed dress and Oliver+S Sketchbook Shirt)
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!
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.
Honourable Mentions:
6. Stella Top (Sinclair Patterns)
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.
7. Grace Pleated Skirt (Sinclair Patterns)
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.
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.
Ciao for now!
This is a long shot, but I'd love to puchase Burda 7780 from you, if you would consider selling it. I've looked everywhere and can't track down a copy.
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