wishing all my sewing buddies a very Merry Christmas! Helen

Craftsy's Best Sale of the Year!!!

(sponsored post) Get the gift you really want during Craftsy's Best of 2014 Sale happening now through Christmas! Treat yourself while ALL our classes are $19.99 or less, so you can make your best projects in 2015. Shop now to stock up and save. Once you enroll you'll own your Craftsy classes forever, so you can watch them at your pace in the comfort of your home, anytime. Hurry, offer expires 12/25/14 at 11:59 PM MT. Knitting and Crochet: Craftsy's Best of 2014 Sale Quilting, sewing and embroidery: Craftsy's Best of 2014 Sale Jewelry and paper crafts: Craftsy's Best of 2014 Sale Gardening and woodworking: Craftsy's Best of 2014 Sale Cake Decorating and cooking: Craftsy's Best of 2014 Sale Photography, painting and drawing: Craftsy's Best of 2014 Sale Craftsy's Best of 2014 Course Sale - $19.99 or less! I'd love to hear whether you've completed any Craftsy classes!!!

Back in Action for 2015

Hi everyone,

After a year of trauma and angst, I'm r-e-a-l-l-y ready for the 2015 challenge.

I first joined this challenge in 2013 and really enjoyed reading of everyone's success . I live in Sydney, Australia, so my sewing may seem unseasonal, but fits with our climate. Garment sewing is my passion and I've sewn for as long as I can remember - most of my wardrobe is 'Me-Made'.

Unfortunately, my intentions to continue the Challenge in 2014 were waylaid. Much of the first 5 months of 2014 were spent supporting my dear father in hospital. The cancer that he'd faced in early 2013 (and thought he'd beaten) unfortunately resurfaced and aggressively overtook his body. Sadly, he passed away at the end of May. We have been dealing with his estate ever since.

We decided to take a break to the snow in September. Someone wasn't looking after me as I had a very simple fall which resulted in major injury. I dislocated both the tibia and fibia, fractured my tibia vertically and destroyed my knee joint of my right leg!! I don't do things by half. After 2 surgeries, (the first to bring the bones back into alignment with an external frame and the second, to plate and screw the tibia, repair the joint and install a bone graft) and some hospital time, sewing was not an option. Three months in and still using crutches, I'm just getting back to sewing.

I seriously am looking forward to the New Year.

Janine in Sydney, Australia

Royal blue cowl neck tunic

Hi all,

I haven't posted here in forever. I have been sewing for myself in the last couple of weeks. I completed my first sew a long a week or so ago. Jocole has this awesome mix and match pattern where you pick the bodice, sleeves, and length. She has the pattern for women and kids. I sewed this top with cowl bodice, elbow length sleeves and A-line tunic length bottom. I used a royal blue ITY knit and I'm really happy with how it turned out. Please excuse the bathroom shot, but I wore it out for date night:)

Rosa

Shop Craftsy's Pre-Black Friday and Black Friday Sales!

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This week, Craftsy is hosting some amazing sales! Here are the details:

On Wednesday and Thursday, Craftsy is having a Pre-Black Friday Sale! You can uncover the Pre-Black Friday Sale: Enjoy Big Savings on Yarn, Fabric & Kits ! 

From Friday through Sunday, Craftsy is hosting their Black Friday Sale! All Classes $19.99 or less! Now is a great time to get the classes you've been eyeing all year! Craftsy classes also make a great gift, so do some holiday shopping for the crafter in your life.

Shop now because you won’t want to miss these incredible sales! 

P.S. I would love to hear what classes you chose, so be sure to comment below. 

Join the Craftsy Affiliate Program!

Hi Sewists!!!

In case you've never checked it out, Craftsy has a great affiliate program!



I've enrolled in several of the Craftsy sewing classes and have loved every one. Here are a few of my favorites:

• The Perfect Knit Wrap Dress
• Modern Jacket Techniques
• Sewing Designer Jeans 

As a Craftsy Affiliate, you'll receive free enrollment in one class as well. Check it out and see if it's a good fit for you. 

Join Craftsy's Affiliate Program today!

We are kicking off a new challenge beginning January 1, 2015!!!!

We began the original challenge on April 1, 2013. We've had up to 50 home sewers join us on the journey,  and we are kicking the challenge off again on January 1, 2015! 

We will begin a year long journey of home sewing!  We're committing to not purchasing clothing for one year.  Instead, we will build our wardrobe by making it ourselves....



Challenging? YES
Impossible? NO!!

For those who may be intimidated by the challenge of making everything in your wardrobe, you can choose to focus on a category or two. For example, maybe you'll commit to making all of your tops or skirts.

In honor of Helen over at Nanna's Place, let's get started this way:

1. Let's introduce OR reintroduce ourselves (if you joined us before).
2. Include a link and a brief description of your blog and why you sew (and blog).
3. Tell us your sewing goals for 2015.
4. Share the link to the first post you ever added to this challenge blog (or your post that was your favorite).
5. Grab the button code to the right to show your support! 

* Thanks Helen for your beautiful post to encourage us to re-engage!

Join us.... Leave a comment and your email if you're interested in authoring posts.  You'll receive an email inviting you to author posts, share techniques, review sewing books, and display your efforts along the way.

Look for updates in the coming weeks to help you get ready to take your sewing skills to the next level.  More later....  Cheering you on...Vita

WHERE ARE THEY NOW?

As I sat here with my coffee this morning, scrolling through  blog land, updating blogs, bla bla bla you know busy stuff lol! I noticed one of my older post showing  under  the "you might also like " boxes , it was my very first post for SEW YOUR OWN WARDROBE  back in Sept of 2013, with tears of joy I began to recall meeting  new friends from all around the world, the advice, the laughs, the culture, we shared with each other, as I sit here saying good morning, many are reading this saying goodnight, ohh the friends, the joys, the heartaches, the dreams we've all shared from all around the globe, I often wonder where are they now

so I was thinking Vita, how about a  where are they now reunion ? a linky party  to  re introduce ourselves, share links to our first post or could even copy/paste that  post into the new post lol! ,links to the 1st thing we've made, just a good ole reunion party, I'm sure you could come up with a snazzy mane lol! whatta ya think? that's just my thoughts for today lol!

Helen

Style-Arc and Georgeous Fabric offering Free Style-Arc Ann-T-Top pattern

 I'm prepping to sew and saw where Gorgeous Fabrics and Style Arc are offering the Ann's T-Top pattern free for a limited time. I've already gotten my copy of the pattern.  When you get the pattern you actually get 3 copies (the size you ordered, one size larger, and one size smaller) I don't know how long the offer will be available.

Here's the link: http://www.stylearc.com/gf-promo/

Happy Sewing . . . .

http://sewingniche.blogspot.com

Self draft strappy top

Thanks for accepting me to come and join your challenge. As the weather has been heating up, I wanted a new strappy top... so I drafted my own!

 

For all the details on how I made it and how you can make your own, pop over to http://www.sewingbeefabrics.co.uk/draft-your-own-strappy-top

 

Thanks!

An overdue apology!

Please accept my apology!
I tried to convert the blogger blog over to WordPress.... I haven't been successful.  The biggest challenge was finding a template that was as "seamstress friendly" as the current one on this site.  Therefore, I've decided to leave it here for now. This works for us....

I have, however, secured a new domain name for us. So, July 1, 2014, the domain name will be www.sewyourownwardrobechallenge.com

If you've tried to post or comment on what I tried to establish as the new blog, ignore it. I will take it down as of today. We can resume operations here.

Again...my apologies. Vita

New Basics...

I have just made three pair of elastic waist pull on pants and a pull on skirt - you can find these on my blog -
click here.

Two more Tees

 

 I've been busy with New Look 6216 again. For details about the top above click here. 

For details about the top below, you will need to click here.

Happy sewing everyone, Sarah Liz.

A simple little Tee...

This is a quick and easy little top to make, using Kwik Sew 3766.  More details on my blog, click here.

On The Hunt For Cherry Fabric

I usually buy most of my patterns at Hancock's & they usually have  cordinating fabrics to go with  the new patterns, I've been all over fabric shops, checked on line , have seen preety cherry prints that may win me over in the end lol! but would love to find this blue with the cherry print for the summer, has anyone seen this print or know where I can find it?
Thanks
Helen

There's a change coming....

Hi Lovely Sewers!

Coming soon....we have our own domain! I will be shifting user names to the new site. You will receive an invite to "author" posts on that site. This site will remain open until we stand up the new one, so "keep posting here!" I will use the information in the current settings to provide usernames and access!  Blessings, Vita

Simplicity 2151 - Linear polka dots!

It's a wild print, but I went for it!

I love Princess seams--they are my favorite. The sleeve detail is nice, and the collar style is my second favorite (shawl collars are my favorite). The length of the top is great for slacks. It's roomy without being too loose. The fit is "Amazing Fit" series.

I used a Silky print, but I would love to make it in a print that has just a bit of stretch.

 The "Amazing Fit" series is great and offers alternate bra cup sizes. That's why I chose it. The fit really is great.

Conclusion:
Good staple top as a wardrobe builder. I could do with a red, black, and white version of this.

KwikSew 4028 Rust & Black stripes

KwikSew K4028 - Rust with black stripes

My first KwikSew pattern. I will be back.... The instructions suggest serging. I made the mistake of serging the sleeve opening--big mistake. It was difficult to turn under the hem to sew because it was served. It only took 2.5 hours from cut out to finish. I used a pointe knit.
 Lovely cowl! I loved sewing it. The pieces came together well. I will use a lighter knit to make it again. It's a great year round top for knits of all weights.

Conclusion:
The top wore really well. I really love the color. It will be a "go-to" pattern for me

FEBRUARY'S FINISHED PROJECT...

...I set a goal to complete my Fearless February project in two weeks. but alas so much life happened.   Never the less, I stuck with it and now Vera is finished.  I did learn something  about me and tailoring - once I start it, I just don't know how to turn it off.  There's always one more thing to add to it, then another, and another so it takes up soooo much time.  I keep promising myself that I WILL yet make a coat or a jacket with NO TAILORING at all, but that never happens.

No picture wearing it yet because daily temperatures are currently reaching the mid 70's.  However, our weatherman is promising a return of the polar vortex in just a few days.  What my Grandmother said is still true; "Spring doesn't officially happen in Georgia until Easter".

Challenge Update and Roll Call...we're on the home stretch!

Hi Ladies!

Well it has been an exciting year of "saying NO to ready-to-wear!" I hope, like Natalea and I, you've been encouraged by your "me-made" experiences over the past 11 months. 

The year has been a busy one for me! In addition to my sewing adventures, my first book was published this past summer, I returned to full time work outside the home, and my travel increased a great deal.

My personal favorites on the sewing journey were learning to sew denim and knits.  I completed two pairs of jeans during the year. A special shout out to Lynn and Lisa for their jean tutorials. We also have links on our resources page. I also purchased Angela Wolf's Craftsy class on making jeans. I'm looking forward to using many of the techniques from it as well. I am quickly falling in love with knits, too! I don't think I would have ever tackled them if the challenge weren't in place.... I've been encouraged by your projects and the tips you've all shared.

As we begin a new season of "the challenge" beginning April 1, 2014, we now want to hear from you regarding your experiences:

• What did you learn about yourself and your sewing prowess?
• What projects or skills challenged you the most this past year?
• Will you continue to "sew your own?" Are there any specific sewing goals you have for the upcoming year?
• Are there any elements you would like to see added to the challenge?

Thank you again for joining us this year.  It has been a great blessing to hear from you and to walk the journey with you!  Blessings and love, Vita

McCalls 6563...Purple leopard and lace

I'm not a fan of bias tops, but I didn't want the pattern to go to waste. I still think it would be better in a knit.  I'm not a great fan of bias cut tops or dresses--it may have to do with the way they fit me. However, I went with this pattern because I wanted something that wouldn't break up the print of the fabric.  It is a silky print--purple leopard and lace. I love the fabric so much! It is a definite staple in my wardrobe. Wardrobe builder. This is another top that I would like to make in a knit.

Back

Front

McCalls 6841...a flattering drape

I love this top! Everyone else loves it, too. My mom and sisters-in-law each requested a version. Mom's is pictured below in the black and white print. I would have made myself one, too, but I didn't have enough of the print. There are more of the these on the cutting room table.... The next ones will be sleeveless. More details on my blog. 

These are a few other prints waiting to become M6841 as well!

TNT Skirt Pattern (and a gorgeous blouse too!)

Visit Red'sThreads for a full review of my latest projects.

HOW MANY MUSLINS WILL YOU DO?

before cutting into my "pretty fabric" I decided I'd better do a muslin likeI had seen so many do lol! I  was drawn by this OOP pattern in my stash that I'd purcased a while back because it seemed to have a sweet swissy look at the bottom, this is my 2nd muslin & I'm not seeing the swissy yet lol! I had to totally recreate the pattern & even though it's the right size & the right length after fighting it for 2 days I'm not sure I'll use it again muslin #2 just needs sleeves & lining, so what ya think? is it worthy of finishing? more of this horror story on my blog lol!

Helen

PATTERN SALE ALERT!

 

http://www.hancockfabrics.com/Weekly-Sales-Ad_stcVVcatId554260VVviewcat.htm


6th-11th
Kwick Sew$ 6.99
Butterick 5 / $7
Simplicty 5 / $7

13th-15th
McCalls 5 / $7

16th-18th
Simplicty 5 / $5
Vogue $4.99
Butterick $1.99

mark your calender~ Go! Go! I wouldn't dream of getting you stirred up! lol! lol!
Helen

A new jacket for my wardrobe...

...I don't use independent patterns often, but fell in love with Pauline Alice's jacket pattern at first sight.    I worked on it diligently finishing it three weeks time; a record for me as it usually takes me a full month to make a tailored jacket.  Did I mention that I love this jacket and have already worn it three times since completing it. The jacket wore well, was VERY comfortable and is a real winner as it will go well with lots of things I already have.  I plan on putting it into regular rotation for the balance of our winter season.
   

Added a close up shot of the slightly nubby speckled wool blend fabric

You can read more about the construction process on my blog if interested.  I also made a matching skirt for the jacket now on to the next project...

IN BETWEEN PROJECTS

In between my Jan. projects, challenges, learning how to line stuff lol! I whipped up an infinity scarf, I thought sew, connect the ends & waa laa ! but have you seen all the crazy ways to make an infinity scarf? mercy, towards the end it just wasn't making sense  so I figured if I did it this way & that way it'd come out the same so  yea I did it my way & will save  the crazy way  for another day lol!

speaking of projects, do you know what a moo moo is? that's what I'm working on lol!

Vintage to Modern

So I took an old turtleneck top pattern (Simplicity 5185):

And turned it into a dress:

I've made 2 dresses from the turtleneck pattern, and am prepared to start another.
For details stop by my blog: http://sewingniche.blogspot.com


Happy Sewing . . . .

Can You Teach An Old Dog New Tricks? lol!

 

spent the whole day & I mean whole day, I arrived  at 10am & left at 2am in the morning lol! with friends who are giving me crash courses in "re learning" how to sew lol! just lining in the sleeves, add the collar & heming & this soft leather beauty is done! my skirt is a chocolate suede, is that how you spell swade? lol! there'll be more on my blog ASP as I'm still working on it , anyhoo you'll see it pop up on the sidebar, you know over here to your left lol! 

 

MCCALL'S 6844

I decided this pattern deserved to be made twice...

McCall's 6844

So I thought I'd give it another whirl using this floral sweater knit that I picked up at Joann's Fall of 2012.
Thus the fabric has had plenty of time for marination, and since I'm a cardi type of girl I thought it would be perfect for this pattern.  I used an Aztec pontederoma print my first time around with this pattern, (you can read about it here) but knew this floral sweater knit would be perfect for my second version.  Surprise!, turns out I was right.  

This time I went down a size from an XL to a L.  I don't know about you, but patterns with that sizing (s,m,l,xl,xxl) are sometimes a little tricky leaving me unsure which size to choose.  Yes I used the XL for the first jacket and ended up taking it in quite a bit.  This time I knew I needed to go down a size, but was still unsure because of the differences in fabric. 

I want to mention that I did not interface the band/collar of either cardigan, because I wanted the whole thing soft and cuddly.  I plan on adding a snap closure at the front of each one cause I like the look of having it closed.  I use steam-a-seam for the hems (no serging) just applied, flipped up 5/8" and stitched down.  All interior seams are serged however.

Front view

Back View

I do plan on making a navy pencil skirt to match...