tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2580531785443131962024-03-14T06:20:41.028-04:00The Experienced NoviceThe sewing adventures of a novice seamstress...The Experienced Novicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13358903620765315347noreply@blogger.comBlogger42125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-258053178544313196.post-33049187361453804292012-09-04T12:31:00.000-04:002012-09-04T12:31:03.192-04:00I've moved.Sorry for disappearing for awhile. I haven't stopped sewing or anything like that. I've gotten lazy keeping up this blog and have been posting my new sewing projects over at my main blog: <a href="http://neene96.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Apple Buni</a>. So if you are still interested in what I've been up to than come over and take a peek. Just click on the sewing category and you'll see all my sewing posts. I'll be seeing you there.The Experienced Novicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13358903620765315347noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-258053178544313196.post-78981485892220820412012-07-10T08:12:00.000-04:002012-07-10T08:12:03.391-04:00Kawaii Fabric Delivery<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I love getting kawaii wrapped packages. Look at the cute Washi tape! *high pitched squeal** Especially when that package contains kawaii Japanese fabric. I just received some fabric from Staci at <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/avintagefairytale" target="_blank">A Vintage Fairytale</a> on Etsy. I made my purchase on Thursday and received it on Monday. Superfast and beautifully wrapped. I even received some cute little extras. See the upper right box. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/neene96/7537932416/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="" class="aligncenter" height="500" id="blogsy-1341864060808.8953" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7275/7537932416_5c688ee3bb.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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Thank you so much Staci. I love all my items. I can't wait to get started and sew something. </div>
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And if you're wondering about the other pictures I promised? Well, I just finished another dress over the weekend, but made the stupid mistake of trying to line a stretch rayon with a slippery acetate. A slippery knit material with a slippery woven material. These things don't mix. They don't hang right. They just don't look good together. Sometimes I really think I should just stop sewing clothes altogether. I never seem to learn. I will display my shame soon. I promise. For real this time. </div>
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Hope your sewing endeavours are better than mine.</div>
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xoxo</div>
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The Experienced Novice</div>
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<br /></div>The Experienced Novicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13358903620765315347noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-258053178544313196.post-6663739022904025472012-06-29T09:53:00.000-04:002012-06-29T09:53:38.619-04:00Hello Kitty meets Liberty of London <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyRo5s0oaw1haGJYadtg7iEzGAXZVNwuKA3Ex23ff1hC_XTLXcb3wNPd7jXeL2VET39VoTt3dmwYy3dxmAZ-NT0h3K_5IB65RXXkLKVbmMVVnemBvIV-bOaYV8cPDiIQ7uKmEq9Xl9vVE/s1600/Large_FJ-057.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyRo5s0oaw1haGJYadtg7iEzGAXZVNwuKA3Ex23ff1hC_XTLXcb3wNPd7jXeL2VET39VoTt3dmwYy3dxmAZ-NT0h3K_5IB65RXXkLKVbmMVVnemBvIV-bOaYV8cPDiIQ7uKmEq9Xl9vVE/s640/Large_FJ-057.jpg" vca="true" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo from Fabric.com.</td></tr>
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Has anyone seen this yet?? Liberty of London has collaborated with Hello Kitty and created some limited edition prints from their famous tana lawn. Aaaaahhh. I am just drooling over this. I found these beauties over at <a href="http://www.fabric.com/SearchResults2.aspx?Source=Header&SearchText=hello+kitty&CategoryID=1d5f47dc-9991-4088-93f3-26a376046a5e" target="_blank">Fabric.com</a>. Why must you torment me while I am still on my fabric diet!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYHDefI0-49U58iTzuZoCPAaoMqaSp9mIfFLpMO8T9T3e4EsOPkzmAgBv4u11B95ou6kwPilAc0F0yjnYXvOfuqPc0xlOU9_XmaoYdWWmbkDgpyJa0RqJ4bTC8H_sHODmkZezYKDPvN5I/s1600/Large_FI-017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYHDefI0-49U58iTzuZoCPAaoMqaSp9mIfFLpMO8T9T3e4EsOPkzmAgBv4u11B95ou6kwPilAc0F0yjnYXvOfuqPc0xlOU9_XmaoYdWWmbkDgpyJa0RqJ4bTC8H_sHODmkZezYKDPvN5I/s640/Large_FI-017.jpg" vca="true" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My personal favorite.</td></tr>
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Can you just picture all the cute things you can make from these fabrics.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFefkcaI_uVefX4dGDD4sXKJ91I_mM68coFhpmGj4NAykHzjb5bpcg_v24rYnnyHXOhPEswbL1nwpQsvmm6CV6tH1CgKT0XcS8IdcLW-qmAzzJWEn_rUgeCvBZKP5_y5CUhMZmISMt4L8/s1600/Large_FI-021.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFefkcaI_uVefX4dGDD4sXKJ91I_mM68coFhpmGj4NAykHzjb5bpcg_v24rYnnyHXOhPEswbL1nwpQsvmm6CV6tH1CgKT0XcS8IdcLW-qmAzzJWEn_rUgeCvBZKP5_y5CUhMZmISMt4L8/s640/Large_FI-021.jpg" vca="true" width="640" /></a></div>
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I see bags, scarves, skirts and so much more. My mind is just reeling with ideas. I have to take a deep breath, step back and put down the credit card. These fabric pieces aren't cheap. Especially when they are being sold at $32/yard. I will need to save and plan my projects accordingly.</div>
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Please let me know if you have made anything from these fabrics because I am dying to know how to look like once they're made into something. *sigh* Now I'm off to dream about future Hello Kitty fabric projects. Happy sewing everyone.</div>The Experienced Novicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13358903620765315347noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-258053178544313196.post-48652867493717865192012-06-28T12:44:00.002-04:002012-06-28T12:44:56.655-04:00Paradise Kiss the MovieAgain I have been missing action. Alas, I've been busy doing so many things that I will hopefully post about real soon. First, I need to talk about something I have just heard about. Paradise Kiss (the Manga) has been released as a movie in Japan. AAAAAAaaahhhh!!! I can't believe it. My blog was originally named after Paradise Kiss and I even named my dressform Yukari (the heroine of the manga). <br />
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If you don't know what I'm talking about than go <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paradise_Kiss" target="_blank">here</a>. I found the trailer for the movie on Youtube and posted it below for your viewing pleasure. <br />
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And if you're wondering what any of this has to do with sewing. I'll state that reading this manga had rekindled my interest in sewing clothes back when it first came out in English 2001-2002. I was still living in San Jose at the time and had no access to a sewing machine, but I swore I would sew my own clothes one day. Okay, enough gushing. I swear I will go back to my sewing posts. I already finished a Lolita inspired skirt and a top. Just need to take pictures. Happy sewing everyone.The Experienced Novicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13358903620765315347noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-258053178544313196.post-22238834518807253042012-06-02T19:05:00.002-04:002012-06-02T19:05:33.924-04:00Sakura Top & Beach BagsA had little bit of rayon fabric leftover from my Simplicity 7500 dress and realized that it was just the right size for a pillow case tunic. I used the dimensions for a pillow case top using the <a href="http://abeautifulmess.typepad.com/my_weblog/2012/01/sew-a-simple-cotton-top.html" target="_blank">tutorial</a> from the blog A Beautiful Mess. I added red straps using some red jersey fabric I had lying around. Unfortunately, my photographer was too busy to take a picture of me wearing it so Yukari (my dummy) will model it for me.<br />
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<center><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51926426@N04/7323184704/"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7091/7323184704_7420c20562_b.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="478" /></a></center><center> </center>I was really pleased with how easy this top came together. I think its because I used my serger for most of the seams. No need to worry about fraying like the first time I used this fabric.<br />
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<center><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51926426@N04/7323185308/"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8021/7323185308_05b9ca3d9e_b.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="441" /></a></center><center> </center>And because pillow case tops are very shapeless, which isn't very flattering on me. I decided that I needed some type of sash or belt for it. I remembered admiring some American Apparel scarves (see below) that can also double as a sash.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIH9pPKKkFWSmWqCB3h5um-5Rqxp7Yy8qLlTmpnOtGX-HnqO4sqEp5I69yledzBNG3mGB918YrYX1MnEFAZJpx3Q8j4XuK_yx23yC-GWX8ckO4dyXX-IfsqQmF-GH4IzdXdu9iSpK8AtQ/s1600/spread_cUY5bt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" rba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIH9pPKKkFWSmWqCB3h5um-5Rqxp7Yy8qLlTmpnOtGX-HnqO4sqEp5I69yledzBNG3mGB918YrYX1MnEFAZJpx3Q8j4XuK_yx23yC-GWX8ckO4dyXX-IfsqQmF-GH4IzdXdu9iSpK8AtQ/s640/spread_cUY5bt.jpg" width="544" /></a></div>
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So I made one myself using the same jersey fabric that was I used for my straps. My scarf ended up a little bit skinnier than the American Apparel versions, but I still like it. Reminds me of the "spring" scarves that I used to see people wear. <br />
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I am so in love with it and how easy it was to make. I didn't use any pattern or tutorial. Just cut out two 6" x 2 yard lengths of jersey or any super stretchy material. Pin fabric pieces right sides together and serge (1/2 inch seam) all the way around leaving room at one end to turn the fabric right side out. Sew your opening closed, iron if you want to and sit back and admire your work. I might even make a tutorial with pictures if anyone is interested. I'm planning on making more scarves using some leftover knit fabric.<br />
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<center><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51926426@N04/7323185864/"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7074/7323185864_9e8de0b694_b.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="428" /></a></center><center> </center><br />
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I was also in a bag making mood after I was finished with my top so I made myself a canvas beach bag using some IKEA fabric that my baby brother picked up for me two years ago. I used the <a href="http://elleapparel.blogspot.com/2010/08/canvas-beach-bag.html" target="_blank">tutorial</a> from Elle Apparel. I love how the bag turned out. The bag has lots of room and the picture below has two towels and lots of swim suits. I might make some small bags to hold mine and Buni's swimsuits and maybe a bag for dirty clothes.</div>
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You can't really tell since the fabric is so busy, but I sewed my first pocket and even added a little bit something if you look closely. Do you see it?<br />
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<center><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51926426@N04/7323186792/"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7219/7323186792_7faed37363_b.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="478" /></a></center><center> </center>How about now? A little Apple-Buni tag. Back to some more sewing. Happy weekend everyone.<br />
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<br /></div>The Experienced Novicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13358903620765315347noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-258053178544313196.post-61349684515495752722012-05-29T09:26:00.002-04:002012-05-29T09:32:42.803-04:00Crayon RollI've been wanting to make one of these crayon rolls ever since I first saw them on the web 2 years ago. Now that my daughter Buni is really into drawing I thought this would be perfect thing to make for her so she can color when we are out and about.<br />
The web is chock full of tutorials on how to make crayon rolls. Just GOOGLE crayon roll tutorials and whole bunch of tutorials will pop up. I got the idea to make mine from reading a tutorial on how to make a purse organizer. My crayon roll is 12 inches wide by 5 inches tall and holds twelve crayons. The fabric I used are two fat quarters I got on sale at Joanns. The acorn fabric is an old Michael Miller design.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Front View</td></tr>
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I didn't take a picture of it, but the top half of the crayon roll folds down to cover the crayons and keep them from falling out.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Back View</td></tr>
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If you have questions on how I made this than leave me a comment. Happy sewing.<br />
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<br />The Experienced Novicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13358903620765315347noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-258053178544313196.post-37313086005212080532012-05-27T09:07:00.000-04:002012-05-29T09:08:01.603-04:00Stitch Diaries & Sewing FeetDuring my hiatus I celebrated my birthday by purchasing some (Distinctive brand) sewing feet from Amazon.<br />
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As soon as I got my sewing feet I started to try them out and realized that I needed a way to document the settings that I used on my sewing machine since each foot requires different settings. I also thought it would be useful to have something visual regarding what type of stitching each foot did. Thus my stitch diary was born. My mom told me that they made a similar stitch diary back in High School when she still lived in the Philippines except all the stitches were hand stitched.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEituMj2y_rleyL0rJ0uUQbLFVbgeQaazhe9E-7zxs5BYx-3wx3bMJgFS_NuoQu1q4b9HvT-u8UvSeF-P_jjDtdikdHdtEvfPOPBYyB-Y61E0hGTfpFH6XXDLiZ3Uks8Lk32iqYzacIaWYA/s1600/Smash-Book-International.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" qba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEituMj2y_rleyL0rJ0uUQbLFVbgeQaazhe9E-7zxs5BYx-3wx3bMJgFS_NuoQu1q4b9HvT-u8UvSeF-P_jjDtdikdHdtEvfPOPBYyB-Y61E0hGTfpFH6XXDLiZ3Uks8Lk32iqYzacIaWYA/s640/Smash-Book-International.jpg" width="640" /></a>I initially purchased a SMASH book like the one pictured to act as a mini scrap book, but realized that it is also the perfect size for a stitch diary. <br />
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As you can see I sewed on scrap fabric using the various sewing feet I purchased, taped them to my SMASH book with some washi tape and recorded the settings I used.<br />
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<center><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51926426@N04/7290798662/"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7239/7290798662_9cdc6d3a48_b.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="478" /></a></center><br />
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The edge joining foot on bottom left was a personal favorite. I also loved the ruffler, but have yet to try it on a real project. The narrow hem foot on the top left wasn't my favorite since it took forever to figure out how to use it properly and even then the results weren't very good.<br />
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<center><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51926426@N04/7290799784/"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7243/7290799784_176de8ac2c_b.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="503" /></a></center><br />
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Do you see the button and button hole on the right? That was the first time I sewed a button and buttonhole. So easy after I read the instructions for the one step button hole for my sewing machine. I can't believe I was so afraid to use it. Now I need to find the perfect project to use it on.<br />
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<center><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51926426@N04/7290800222/"><img border="0" height="403" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7235/7290800222_e7b4277418_b.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="640" /></a></center><br />
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The side cutter overlock foot on the left was kind of like having a serger foot for your sewing machine. The side cutter overlock foot cut and overlocked at the same time. Also the picot foot was very similar to the overcast foot so I wasn't too impressed with. Still trying to get my head around all the different kinds of feet. I still have to try my bias tape foot and my pintuck foot. Hopefully I'll be adding more entries into my stitch diary real soon.<br />
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If you are interested in the sewing feet I used than do a search for "Distinctive Sewing Feet" on <a href="http://www.amazon.com/" target="_blank">Amazon</a>. The prices are very reasonable. The home decorator kit and the kit with various hemming feet were $50 each. The feet are for low shank sewing machine that can snap on and off. The feet worked for my Brother sewing machine so double check before you purchase it. Happy sewing.The Experienced Novicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13358903620765315347noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-258053178544313196.post-44326652523579489522012-05-23T19:58:00.001-04:002012-06-02T19:08:03.388-04:00School Bags and SuchSorry for my absence. I've been busy, busy, busy with lots of birthdays, first day of schools and being just plain lazy. Luckily I've been sewing for most of my absence with most of my sewing being centered around making things for my little three year old: Buni.<br />
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The fabric is called Momotaro and it came from Kawaii Fabric on Etsy. I used red cotton for the lining and black cotton webbing for the straps. You can also see my sad attempt at making labels using twill tape, fabric stamp pad and stamps.<br />
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<center><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51926426@N04/7258698660/"><img border="0" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7220/7258698660_bf17e51667_b.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" /></a></center><br />
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Buni just started pre-school in March and I decided several weeks later that she needed a school bag to bring all her school things: clothes, snacks, art work, etc. Unfortunately, I didn't really measure her while I made the first bag so it ended up too long in both the straps and the bag itself. Lets just say she wears the straps around her neck instead of on her arms. The bag fits me perfectly, but I was thinking about Buni when I was making it. Seriously I was!<br />
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The second version of her school bag was smaller and zippered, but ended up too small to fit anything school related. Luckily it fits her Leap Pad perfectly, but I still had to go back to the drawing board to figure out how to make a bag she can use.<br />
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<center><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51926426@N04/7258699412/"><img border="0" height="548" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8002/7258699412_e205216c56_b.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="640" /></a></center><br />
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Zippered tote bag version with red polyester webbing for straps. The picture doesn't do a good job of showing my lining, but it's brown pre-quilted fabric from my mom's fabric stash. Don't recommend using pre-quilted fabric for a lining as its really bulky.<br />
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<center><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51926426@N04/7258699704/"><img border="0" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7097/7258699704_133b9a9fef_b.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" /></a></center><br />
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Another Apple-Buni tag that I made.<br />
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<center><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51926426@N04/7258700036/"><img border="0" height="557" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7093/7258700036_c1ce99fc63_b.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="640" /></a></center><br />
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The third version of her bag fit her perfectly. Thank gawd. This will teach me to measure her first before making any future bags. Fabric was a Japanese cotton from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/kawaiifabric" target="_blank">Kawaii Fabric</a> and the straps were brown cotton webbing from Joanns.<br />
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<center><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51926426@N04/7258756142/"><img border="0" height="288" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7240/7258756142_e463fdf057_b.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="640" /></a></center><br />
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Here's a glimpse of all three bags from Buni's Spring pre-school bag collection. I'm sure I'll be making more bags this coming fall semester. <br />
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<center><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/51926426@N04/7258700446/"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7221/7258700446_a3e167c4f2_z.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="640" /></a></center><br />
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Another little project I had finished recently for her was a pillow case cover for a small pillow that I bought from Joann's over a year ago. Yeah I know. I am a major procrastinator. I am trying harder to not let projects sit there. I kind of winged it when I made the pillow case cover. Measuring the length, width and adding an inch to each measurement. Than I decided that the pattern was too busy so I added a solid color panel and some ric rac. I'm just glad that in the end that the pillowcase fit. Floral fabric and red fabric were both from Fabric Mart and vintage jumbo white ric rac was from eBay.<br />
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Stay tuned for more past projects and hopefully some present projects.The Experienced Novicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13358903620765315347noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-258053178544313196.post-30049382025369225192012-03-06T08:45:00.000-05:002012-03-06T08:45:44.799-05:00Clothing Designer Alert: Shabby Apple Mad Hatter Collection 2012As you know I love anything to do with Alice in Wonderland. I am especially tickled when designers use my favorite novel to design their collections. Have you heard of <a href="http://www.shabbyapple.com/" target="_blank">Shabby Apple</a>? Shabby Apple is an online boutique that sells that loveliest vintage inspired clothes. I haven't heard about them until recently when I came across their <a href="http://www.shabbyapple.com/t-MadHatterLookBook.aspx" target="_blank">Mad Hatter Collection</a>. <br />
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Below are some of my favorite looks from their Mad Hatter Collection.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUHQ-whSfpNrheYpcx8IamOI16kQqmrwqxTxukeArZ8eFbehMN8bhuFXQct1ftbNb82SlDfkf5GmxGtixtP1v8VB2VFtjMYcl5SEO2A0pIL5eRGTeOs5h5ga2OTkG826CZvIhaSdKLUXk/s1600/1413_1_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUHQ-whSfpNrheYpcx8IamOI16kQqmrwqxTxukeArZ8eFbehMN8bhuFXQct1ftbNb82SlDfkf5GmxGtixtP1v8VB2VFtjMYcl5SEO2A0pIL5eRGTeOs5h5ga2OTkG826CZvIhaSdKLUXk/s1600/1413_1_.jpg" uda="true" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Red Queen</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPqbalzAPDFqoC18H1fKyWXRm8DJZ9zVSjyD_wG2vkdfkFXd72WSbeY8TnQnet3FN9T0Q4DDAMInXI1U3lm9T5lse_FoLZFhNnWGrap5YfHLiIo_Kh4-wwpP2J7D5SxUs9wjkaeYW6_mc/s1600/1412_1_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPqbalzAPDFqoC18H1fKyWXRm8DJZ9zVSjyD_wG2vkdfkFXd72WSbeY8TnQnet3FN9T0Q4DDAMInXI1U3lm9T5lse_FoLZFhNnWGrap5YfHLiIo_Kh4-wwpP2J7D5SxUs9wjkaeYW6_mc/s1600/1412_1_.jpg" uda="true" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Calooh Callay</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhbKCnYQMHO8KSvY5hg4sXzMcMJ03I9K2H3W1tRBnoZ0TbUulLotRJVfGVEP8bB2YWvcfqd30_Hw6J-t_eHDlEW-K7Os48lmGro914LfCoeGNfCwJhl1MAmlOzggt5x03DliOK3GM3XXY/s1600/1414_1_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhbKCnYQMHO8KSvY5hg4sXzMcMJ03I9K2H3W1tRBnoZ0TbUulLotRJVfGVEP8bB2YWvcfqd30_Hw6J-t_eHDlEW-K7Os48lmGro914LfCoeGNfCwJhl1MAmlOzggt5x03DliOK3GM3XXY/s1600/1414_1_.jpg" uda="true" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Alice</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNGIMDdMoIrPsvpcnmaOp0X9ygV_KnNOp3yM6FT-FGtM-x8i_AyDXc-7XnuxnTjGLxC7MO9Y1EA_RZbqjFKmYBl7M5yV811Fy5nEvagQt9-HSbcectwAOGBeJJwtNVaRpkD2WjCT0YGro/s1600/1415_1_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNGIMDdMoIrPsvpcnmaOp0X9ygV_KnNOp3yM6FT-FGtM-x8i_AyDXc-7XnuxnTjGLxC7MO9Y1EA_RZbqjFKmYBl7M5yV811Fy5nEvagQt9-HSbcectwAOGBeJJwtNVaRpkD2WjCT0YGro/s1600/1415_1_.jpg" uda="true" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jabberwocky</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs1Z3CFgWIbnj_4xGIAYF-BI-56z9MTkhCSLoN39WhXBGL6IGenVpYOh5Q3PsI9zwgNfSs3HgbJ17PWa9kKIJVEOs3U-EC3-th4u6S_gk4onUGx0heMc29humr_FoAXqPQlsvupWOeP3U/s1600/1419_1_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs1Z3CFgWIbnj_4xGIAYF-BI-56z9MTkhCSLoN39WhXBGL6IGenVpYOh5Q3PsI9zwgNfSs3HgbJ17PWa9kKIJVEOs3U-EC3-th4u6S_gk4onUGx0heMc29humr_FoAXqPQlsvupWOeP3U/s1600/1419_1_.jpg" uda="true" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tea Time</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Lovely. I wish I can afford them all. All the dresses in the collection are so inspiring. Perhaps some day I can make something just as lovely. Have a frabjubalous day everyone.The Experienced Novicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13358903620765315347noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-258053178544313196.post-84236593669636855002012-03-05T11:40:00.001-05:002012-03-05T11:46:46.425-05:00Simplicity 2444: Floral Sweetheart Dress<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3A1hUfWniPQRJVFmndvtMCVkNb5_zWnHHKJwJbf_6NYqJK6g4OCR4QQsYnITWGOmZ762XRy_ndxSkliTPftlRs937DxbZXPEUlo6l8qmrSFxYTBEoPkUrMtmFs8nfw_lkxLhbjyqGWNo/s1600/dress+029.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3A1hUfWniPQRJVFmndvtMCVkNb5_zWnHHKJwJbf_6NYqJK6g4OCR4QQsYnITWGOmZ762XRy_ndxSkliTPftlRs937DxbZXPEUlo6l8qmrSFxYTBEoPkUrMtmFs8nfw_lkxLhbjyqGWNo/s640/dress+029.jpg" uda="true" width="427" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Behold. My floral sweetheart dress that was made using the bodice from Simplicity 2444. I wanted to make sure the bodice fit perfectly before I actually cut into my real fabric so I made a wearable muslin using some leftover floral fabric that came from a disastrous 2nd attempt at Simplicity 7500, which will not be posted about here. Too bad! I don't even want to remember that attempt. </span></div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEWkMYubvuLdEQGUR40ixJ3BtcbXY8oMwssJBWVYx_DNueDMhsD0gSV32xcZZg8JRxDzh8SjewArhUZf4yIAP_zC99XBlbB6dPkGw9pmA0vreWa7xJPbzVd1bUNAV1NkVAfW8erNG1s54/s1600/2444.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEWkMYubvuLdEQGUR40ixJ3BtcbXY8oMwssJBWVYx_DNueDMhsD0gSV32xcZZg8JRxDzh8SjewArhUZf4yIAP_zC99XBlbB6dPkGw9pmA0vreWa7xJPbzVd1bUNAV1NkVAfW8erNG1s54/s400/2444.jpg" uda="true" width="277" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj92LXnZVcUJC-ZFDFDezrpCZ69IFr35L8h9vK-2xK4nSrC76kct4YvHOo6izzSBFgGJpM5hrvy5T06dfdKora6qYLDkAyPDK-b9Qov2cXhJyf7SO-S0aNDDs4-FoFS6xb2gfd6SlUNCQE/s1600/2444line.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj92LXnZVcUJC-ZFDFDezrpCZ69IFr35L8h9vK-2xK4nSrC76kct4YvHOo6izzSBFgGJpM5hrvy5T06dfdKora6qYLDkAyPDK-b9Qov2cXhJyf7SO-S0aNDDs4-FoFS6xb2gfd6SlUNCQE/s640/2444line.jpg" uda="true" width="446" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I was lucky enough to have enough fabric from my previous disaster to make the bodice. Sadly I didn't have enough fabric to cut a lining. I ended up finishing the neckline and arm holes using some red bias tape.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDVBvvpHsr_qj7g-_NkIZPYXIDwYa5kNI1p8dzKvT3aClez1-5N1LGtrEXNDlSXu_0ETgo2XK5UC6uWHQpZUBeey1mI-PsJ6rGszg8qOwstw1NcGc5re2t4hnd0zT3aXq-vqWx5hvVmog/s1600/dress+014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDVBvvpHsr_qj7g-_NkIZPYXIDwYa5kNI1p8dzKvT3aClez1-5N1LGtrEXNDlSXu_0ETgo2XK5UC6uWHQpZUBeey1mI-PsJ6rGszg8qOwstw1NcGc5re2t4hnd0zT3aXq-vqWx5hvVmog/s640/dress+014.jpg" uda="true" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">What am I looking at?</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I did manage to also salvage the skirt from my disaster, but it was bit short. Oh well. Make lemonade out lemons right?? I also managed to not match up my piping in the back. Does anyone know how to do that? It always seems off every time I add piping to the waist seam. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqSueq8htm4juO-XtVGc-XpNejTKqmnf4mUv89Tk_Cb3kwYAbgre0HT_gN0-bJ_HyWoqhKGs_Kr65VhZCIzHOaTW2wFwJzX1sndYjfeIAAEaLZ_Eu0g6aAKPFIC-9n7e-okjuj8bqCECE/s1600/dress+005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqSueq8htm4juO-XtVGc-XpNejTKqmnf4mUv89Tk_Cb3kwYAbgre0HT_gN0-bJ_HyWoqhKGs_Kr65VhZCIzHOaTW2wFwJzX1sndYjfeIAAEaLZ_Eu0g6aAKPFIC-9n7e-okjuj8bqCECE/s640/dress+005.jpg" uda="true" width="428" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>Pattern Review (The Pros):</strong> Simplicity 2444 is one of those Project Runway inspired patterns, which means it has a lot of options for customization. I decided to work with the bodice first before tackling the full dress, but I wanted to also have something to wear. I cut out the sleeveless bodice, but used a self drafted gathered skirt that I rescued from my Simplicity 7500 2nd attempt. I think a different skirt option would be better since the gathered skirt doesn't really look that good on me. Overall, I love the bodice pattern (with lots of changes) and can't wait to make the full dress version using the bodice and skirt pieces.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>The Cons: </strong>I don't think its the patterns fault that I have such wacked out body measurements. According to the finished measurements on the back I should be size 14 on top with a size 16 bottom with a size 20 waist. I know I know. Really need to do some crunches or something. Unfortunately I ended with a lot of ease despite the recommendations. Like that hasn't happened before? *Rolls eyes!*</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>Did it come out like the pattern picture?</strong> Yes. At least the bodice portion did although you can't see the dart detail because of the busyness of the floral pattern.</span></div><div class="separator" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>Do you need to make adjustments?</strong> Oh yeah. As I mentioned previously because of my supposed sizing according to Simplicity. I cut out a size 14 bodice and graded it (using a french curve) to a 20 waist. I also shortened the width of the four darts in the front bodice and two darts in the back bodice from two inches to one inch and basted the side seams at 1/2 inch. The bodice ended up being enormous on me. What a fool I am. Hahaha! So I ended up resewing all the darts at their original two inch widths for both front and back and sewing the side seams at 7/8 inches and the zipper seam at 5/8 inches and now the bodice fits perfectly. I guess I could grade my bodice to a size 18 or even a 16 waist, but may not since the bodice fits. As long as I remember what I did. </span></div><div class="separator" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Another adjustment I made was to use store bought red single fold bias tape to finish the neckline and arm holes since I didn't have enough fabric to line it. The seam allowance was 5/8 so I subtracted 1/2 inch (width of my bias tape) from it and ended up with 1/4 inch. The 1/4 inch was what I cut off from the neckline and arm hole openings before I sewed on the bias tape. I read about this technique in one of my books. So far I like how it turned out.</span></div><div class="separator" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">I also basted some red piping at the waist and attached a gathered skirt, which was finished with some matching red double fold bias tape. Last, but not least was a red invisible zipper for the bodice. Phew! lots of adjustments. I hope to use the skirt piece that came with the pattern when I remake this dress.</span></div><div class="separator" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>Pattern Level:</strong> Intermediate. At least with all the adjustments I made. I have a feeling that people will have a to do a bit of bodice adjustment to get the fit correct. Plus if you have no experience in lining a dress (raises hand) than I'm sure that will be a learning experience since the pattern instruction doesn't really tell you how to do it while inserting a zipper. I was actually referencing my Colette sewing book, which happens to have instructions and pictures on how to add a lining and a zipper.</span></div><div class="separator" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>What could I have done better?</strong> Everything. Hahaha. I also need to figure out how to align my piping. Maybe someone out there can give me tips.<br />
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<strong>Would you sew this pattern again?</strong> Already working on it. Got the fabric ready and will hopefully be cutting into it real soon.<br />
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<b>Pattern:</b> Simplicity 2447 purchased from Joanns</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">.<br />
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<strong>Fabric<em>: </em></strong>Cotton fabric from Fabric Mart.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Techniques:<em> </em></b><span style="font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Darts, bias tape on neckline and armholes, invisible zipper, piping and self drafted gathered skirt.</span></span></div>The Experienced Novicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13358903620765315347noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-258053178544313196.post-24843980331979924202012-02-25T16:09:00.000-05:002012-02-25T16:09:08.984-05:00Peacock Taffy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqOrwAMFU2PiqTpyl5qcO4X_Z6txDqb6392xggBNVHENIFKcDTbpJIq3TQ-xNcOIzNEoWR0e7R-sc43hiskUJVftzpv8XNF4TFG2sZ0FR-4ibJdi971R8OxK9XWUn8ozGj6pGDIsc5MdE/s1600/DSC_0001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" lda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqOrwAMFU2PiqTpyl5qcO4X_Z6txDqb6392xggBNVHENIFKcDTbpJIq3TQ-xNcOIzNEoWR0e7R-sc43hiskUJVftzpv8XNF4TFG2sZ0FR-4ibJdi971R8OxK9XWUn8ozGj6pGDIsc5MdE/s640/DSC_0001.jpg" width="376" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
Does this fabric look familiar? Of course it is. It is the last bit of Peacock print Rayon Challis that I used on my <a href="http://theexperiencednovice.blogspot.com/2012/02/juliet-in-peacock.html" target="_blank">Juliet dress</a>. I made my first Taffy blouse from those dress remnants. I was lucky to have a lot left over since the blouse was cut on a bias and required some creative positioning, but I managed to fit everything in. I can't wait to wear this top to a birthday party tomorrow.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><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/AVvXsEgj9S7JFxDDWhNvcp44JRgshCUVnGyiy21voM13O8QH9o_wmWwLJoQYuE32Jf_h6veCHywSUMPkhJo10nOq-GxSFt1f3stoRy9FJgeF4yvWKKI5Zx7YXY2jkx15YdGKy0KBQZIls99jWrM/s1600/Back.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" lda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj9S7JFxDDWhNvcp44JRgshCUVnGyiy21voM13O8QH9o_wmWwLJoQYuE32Jf_h6veCHywSUMPkhJo10nOq-GxSFt1f3stoRy9FJgeF4yvWKKI5Zx7YXY2jkx15YdGKy0KBQZIls99jWrM/s640/Back.JPG" width="428" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Back View</td></tr>
</tbody></table><strong><em>Pattern Review (The Pros):</em></strong> The pattern only consisted of three pieces and was very easy to put together. Plus the instructions in the book were easy to follow and had great drawings. I was a bit apprehensive with this pattern because it was the first time I cut pattern pieces on the bias and the first time I sewed the sleeves on first before sewing the side seams. That technique worked perfectly and I'm wondering if you can do the same technique on regular sleeves. Hmmm..<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/AVvXsEh-yNtN2jbq7XV0tWaIgLvEKLP8oJo2aVhyUEuQn1kYaF57DdGIzaCySF2R3phawbBWOjwhubUmjr4aJIIZ-PqiEJP8Xb_-Sc4gqYjzKH2K50MST9eknLqDXhavkX_ZGUrqYJNlEN2ZMYo/s1600/amber-taffy-labeled-650x800.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" lda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-yNtN2jbq7XV0tWaIgLvEKLP8oJo2aVhyUEuQn1kYaF57DdGIzaCySF2R3phawbBWOjwhubUmjr4aJIIZ-PqiEJP8Xb_-Sc4gqYjzKH2K50MST9eknLqDXhavkX_ZGUrqYJNlEN2ZMYo/s640/amber-taffy-labeled-650x800.jpg" width="520" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.coletterie.com/books/colette-sewing-handbook-taffy-and-meringue-patterns" target="_blank">Source</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><strong><em>The Cons:</em></strong> I did not have any major cons with this pattern. Can you believe? My only gripe is that it was bit difficult discerning the pattern lines when you try to cut it out.<br />
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<strong><em>Did it come out like the pattern picture?</em></strong> Yes, it did.<br />
<div class="separator" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong><em>Do you need to make adjustments?</em></strong> Not really. I cut out a size 10 and used some pre made black bias tape because I ran out of fabric to make my own bias tape. Although, I do want to try that out next time. I also used single fold bias tape on the hem instead of folding it over.</div><div class="separator" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"></div><div class="separator" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong><em>Pattern Level:</em></strong> An experienced beginner can breeze through this, but a novice can also work with this pattern.</div><div class="separator" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><strong><em>What could I have done better?</em></strong> I think I will make the sleeves a little longer next time and probably move the ties closer to my bust line. Also I want to make sure I have all the bias tape I need since I wasted a lot of time looking for the right color, size, type of bias tape to use for the shirt. Be warned you will need at least two and half packages of store bought bias tape if you don't want to make your own.<br />
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<strong><em>Would you sew this pattern again?</em></strong> Yes. I would love to make a version that <br />
is tunic length or maybe dress length.<br />
<em><b>Pattern:</b></em> Taffy blouse from the Colette Patterns book.<br />
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<em><b>Fabric: </b></em>Rayon challis from Fabric Mart.<br />
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<strong><em>Techniques:</em> </strong>Cutting fabric pieces on that bias, bias tape and french seams.<br />
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</div>The Experienced Novicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13358903620765315347noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-258053178544313196.post-18519922558610749822012-02-24T15:44:00.000-05:002012-02-24T15:44:08.738-05:00Sewing Room Redux 3Do you remember when I talked about how I installed cabinets in my second floor room over the garage because I was going to use it as my sewing room? Well, I changed plans during the winter and moved my fabric stash and everything else to our spare room on the third floor because I was tired of having to go from one room to another to gather all my items for sewing. Anyways, after my relocation I decided a month later that it would not work and relocated again to the first floor. All because of this thing.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXQwgyLer7xXTccEv-QquWS9xCQac2-cec4q0wbt0tLPYZVO4enATSZ3vIzcC7wLvss32_CBtCxhSILlpHW5Le6Iti_7Llg02PVgB4vywbwy7Fq7r0Mpci9i5E-65jShaXaJ3yGSaDCz8/s1600/DSC_0005%5B1%5D" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" lda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXQwgyLer7xXTccEv-QquWS9xCQac2-cec4q0wbt0tLPYZVO4enATSZ3vIzcC7wLvss32_CBtCxhSILlpHW5Le6Iti_7Llg02PVgB4vywbwy7Fq7r0Mpci9i5E-65jShaXaJ3yGSaDCz8/s640/DSC_0005%5B1%5D" width="429" /></a></div><br />
Yes that is a library card catalog you are looking at. One of those coveted items that one can only wish to find. I was lucky enough to win this one at an online government auction for a steal. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4x2o7qxuAqpDWAHyul137oUNsjSQW51XpHKwI7dUUlngPYLnXzOTH5ETdeYZ2iaJZXlx7DpFHf4TEc27dQHRyoICg_69kzqhrem-aNzP8l-w_JmjTUMosuKruFlza96CzYYP3x4ha39A/s1600/DSC_0011%255B1%255D" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" lda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4x2o7qxuAqpDWAHyul137oUNsjSQW51XpHKwI7dUUlngPYLnXzOTH5ETdeYZ2iaJZXlx7DpFHf4TEc27dQHRyoICg_69kzqhrem-aNzP8l-w_JmjTUMosuKruFlza96CzYYP3x4ha39A/s640/DSC_0011%255B1%255D" width="640" /></a></div><br />
As you can see I replaced the labels with some of my own. The green labels indicate craft type supplies while the hot pink (looks red in the picture) labels store my sewing supplies. Thankfully I only managed to fill up half of this thing. The card catalog is so heavy (despite removing all the drawers) that I was only able to move it to the first floor. My little study is now my new sewing/craft room.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO69kszm6Xyr8xRckaUElF-HmEKtjvPdfhaRelb5xC1OreeYF9v5sb-g78JYOKabkWoJox6nIlNif2drd1agxT8Ft2dSsI4wL3qMcFLaShQ7CYh5Q0E8ld37Cwxpqlozi1Tam2Qs8mQYM/s1600/DSC_0012%255B1%255D" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" lda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO69kszm6Xyr8xRckaUElF-HmEKtjvPdfhaRelb5xC1OreeYF9v5sb-g78JYOKabkWoJox6nIlNif2drd1agxT8Ft2dSsI4wL3qMcFLaShQ7CYh5Q0E8ld37Cwxpqlozi1Tam2Qs8mQYM/s640/DSC_0012%255B1%255D" width="640" /></a></div><br />
I replaced the books in my bookshelves with my craft and sewing supplies. Reams of scrapbook paper, my cricut, sizzix, boxes of trim and tons of stickers are stored here. Mister is not very happy with this arrangement because he says it looks messy. Guess I can't please everyone. I do plan on cleaning this area up in anticipation of my daughters birthday, but for now I've been sewing up a storm ever since my new move.<br />
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For now here is my current work in progress: my first taffy blouse from the Colette sewing book.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDJvsziRfnswUhme29ZeMegNgs8CgT0HgYReVksx6nkyYJlhvnZYbRYI8Ce_dwN7WlUtCm_waEB6px9I8eyyhHDsnCsB2gwkT1BFb7jbZ9YV4kXy9zgAWhl23NlcBUhUWY1d5dRaWDzyY/s1600/DSC_0003%255B1%255D" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" lda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDJvsziRfnswUhme29ZeMegNgs8CgT0HgYReVksx6nkyYJlhvnZYbRYI8Ce_dwN7WlUtCm_waEB6px9I8eyyhHDsnCsB2gwkT1BFb7jbZ9YV4kXy9zgAWhl23NlcBUhUWY1d5dRaWDzyY/s640/DSC_0003%255B1%255D" width="428" /></a></div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">All I need to do is hem the bottom and finish adding some bias tape to the sleeves. I am prepared to cut out and start some more of these this weekend. Stay tuned for my review. Lastly is a picture of another sewing project that I completed last weekend. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJt54VuZwi-oKB9PiIQZkIG3p7HEJeFEYc5oFRtnyQ2qVPVVUGPUkLdPUrqQLyP5IH7bOdIhl_YHgOjlM9q3Is8lstfP3LY_ogaj4dGLXnc6HQeKbRSYc3r4SR4_0GnkRxp004pskZr08/s1600/DSC_0017%255B1%255D" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" lda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJt54VuZwi-oKB9PiIQZkIG3p7HEJeFEYc5oFRtnyQ2qVPVVUGPUkLdPUrqQLyP5IH7bOdIhl_YHgOjlM9q3Is8lstfP3LY_ogaj4dGLXnc6HQeKbRSYc3r4SR4_0GnkRxp004pskZr08/s640/DSC_0017%255B1%255D" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div>I got tired of looking at my plain notebooks that I use at work so I used up some of my scrap fabric and covered them. I even added a lopsided pocket to hold a pen. I will have to raid my scrap stash to make one more cover for my third notebook. Felt like I had to do something to brighten my day at work. Have a great weekend everyone.The Experienced Novicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13358903620765315347noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-258053178544313196.post-76425596114831669172012-02-21T16:25:00.000-05:002012-02-21T16:25:30.052-05:00Juliet in PeacockI finally got myself together and decided to finish the Babydoll dress (McCalls 4762) that I had cut out last October. I blogged about the first version <a href="http://theexperiencednovice.blogspot.com/2011/10/vintage-mccalls-4762-baby-doll-dress.html" target="_blank">here</a>. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw72VVsnk0rb2Yia1oUDrtFAaWNP6RRjvfCeOH51T9EhT951i7PMjted42JM2TgII2CAvAHzLHUORCUpgmoBDhIqKui8GAf4mZPwyguDRsmfubGFeLT6_4pn1MzWCby0YcjZSC2UbC67s/s1600/McCalls+4762-retrobution+vintage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" lda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw72VVsnk0rb2Yia1oUDrtFAaWNP6RRjvfCeOH51T9EhT951i7PMjted42JM2TgII2CAvAHzLHUORCUpgmoBDhIqKui8GAf4mZPwyguDRsmfubGFeLT6_4pn1MzWCby0YcjZSC2UbC67s/s400/McCalls+4762-retrobution+vintage.jpg" width="331" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>I called my first version of this dress my Marcia Brady dress and absolutely loved it. My follow up dress is called Juliet in Peacock and its made from another rayon challis with a peacock feather type pattern that I purchased from Fabric Mart last year. Here it is.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifx5g5-NfimJ3XRNN-wX5XyLrMS6PO6rRZ7jggPDUpbPWMlmEQAd8G0ovmnFRa9Fe0t3Bv74XdiHaCR-jH5gTalW8eNBKGwa3ak_JQ8K2ZitMKhouAmAd6YN9GFk-IitxL7L8vYOvxkhA/s1600/dress+007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" lda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifx5g5-NfimJ3XRNN-wX5XyLrMS6PO6rRZ7jggPDUpbPWMlmEQAd8G0ovmnFRa9Fe0t3Bv74XdiHaCR-jH5gTalW8eNBKGwa3ak_JQ8K2ZitMKhouAmAd6YN9GFk-IitxL7L8vYOvxkhA/s640/dress+007.jpg" width="428" /></a></div><br />
Again the construction was very straight forward and easy. The changes I made this time around was to remove the 1/2 inch that I added to the bodice side seams and 1/2 inch from the skirt side seams. I kept the 1/2 inch that I added to the side seams of the sleeves. These changes resulted in a better fitting dress bodice. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSPEpS_ohzStqN2t7yMgnZPlN0chiZD85sbgXfgiEr0vUYwHa-K-0JR7dbRSbAuA3waZnHaR2gZsbYFZSAvBbHmKv_gKLW_iEbGxs-aPfRwaWhsV-x7pWyss00HQvxpk3FoyeiONHXmUI/s1600/dress+003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" lda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSPEpS_ohzStqN2t7yMgnZPlN0chiZD85sbgXfgiEr0vUYwHa-K-0JR7dbRSbAuA3waZnHaR2gZsbYFZSAvBbHmKv_gKLW_iEbGxs-aPfRwaWhsV-x7pWyss00HQvxpk3FoyeiONHXmUI/s640/dress+003.jpg" width="428" /></a></div><br />
I also added black piping to outline the bodice since I didn't want the shape of the dress to get lost in the pattern like it did in my first dress. I finished the sleeves and hem in black double fold bias tape. I love the contrast and the flow of the dress. This dress really reminds me of the dress that Juliet wore in the Romeo and Juliet movie. The one from the 70s not the Leonardo Dicaprio and Claire Danes version.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Dg77eh4yp8tUJp0PzPQ-VEX7BTXHuD372f72y8wX5np6uY9l3A7cT6aVh23nyP3LOdKKNbDplR1Dn-52unKDjyIAGBkssgX8idUUILR7-j86wKjWhQKPNCB3xKUHAKfL-sNAX3w7NcU/s1600/dress+004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" lda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Dg77eh4yp8tUJp0PzPQ-VEX7BTXHuD372f72y8wX5np6uY9l3A7cT6aVh23nyP3LOdKKNbDplR1Dn-52unKDjyIAGBkssgX8idUUILR7-j86wKjWhQKPNCB3xKUHAKfL-sNAX3w7NcU/s640/dress+004.jpg" width="428" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The dress fabric flows beautifully and I love wearing it. I actually wore this for two days straight. Last night for its debut at Misters cousin's birthday and today at work. I even received a compliment from my supervisor about it.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I love the fabric so much that I used what remained to make a Taffy blouse from the Colette Pattern book I talked about <a href="http://theexperiencednovice.blogspot.com/2011/12/sewing-block.html" target="_blank">here</a>. Stay tuned for an upcoming post on that.</div>The Experienced Novicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13358903620765315347noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-258053178544313196.post-6333906676930473282011-12-29T12:50:00.000-05:002011-12-29T12:50:02.662-05:00A Sewing Block<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Hey everyone! I noticed I haven't checked in since October. Shame on me. Ever since I came back from my cruise to the Bahamas in October I have hit a sewing block. Kind of like a writers block only with sewing. Get it? *crickets** Okay. Never mind. </div><br />
So now you know I haven't sewn anything since my last dress. The dress pieces that I cut out from my green fabric are still sitting there on my table waiting to be sewn, but I just lack the motivation. I think its because my fabric room is a mess. Yes, I do have a room that I store most of my fabric in. I also happen to store my other crafting things in there too. I showed some really bad pictures of it in this <a href="http://theexperiencednovice.blogspot.com/2011_02_01_archive.html" target="_blank">post</a>. Of course that room looks totally different and extremely messy. Essentially too much visual clutters equals zero productivity. <br />
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For now, I will show a picture of the book that Mister gave me for Christmas.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3UKWjLfatJs/TvylsbsQ0FI/AAAAAAAAAN0/T5xgmgnXPyk/s1600/cover-large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" rea="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3UKWjLfatJs/TvylsbsQ0FI/AAAAAAAAAN0/T5xgmgnXPyk/s400/cover-large.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Yes, I received my copy of the Colette Sewing Handbook. I'm sure you must have heard of this book already. Lots of bloggers have been writing all about it. And if you know nothing about them then check out their <a href="http://www.colettepatterns.com/" target="_blank">website</a> for more info. I've already looked through it and I can't wait to get started. I got Mister to purchase this book for me because of the chapter regarding fit. I'm a visual version and require lots of pictures to get me through anything. I was really happy to see lots of pictures when it was explaining how to do waist and small bust adjustments. My two biggest issues regarding fit. Hope this book can jump start me out of my sewing rut. Happy belated holidays and early new years!</div>The Experienced Novicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13358903620765315347noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-258053178544313196.post-77499203019894056232011-10-20T12:43:00.001-04:002011-10-20T12:43:37.750-04:00Nadinoo Fall 2011My favorite designer Nadinoo recently gave everyone a peak at her Fall 2011 fashion line. Love the vintage styled dresses and the whimsical bird fabric she uses. I am very inspired! Check out her <a href="http://nadinoo.blogspot.com/">blog</a> for more up to date release information.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTWMQgenTokb8ORJfhxKlNiIbZLrF9FL8fAvYdEyH8WeRatI_AkH_uXwqNCZUL5qIGBwdMC4yhldwUSELpmpGKpbb44BeAcnN3wHr5qxCMtMJKb49az8NgH_0BjOkvqmtrj_0By_MR9FA/s1600/Autumn_11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" rda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTWMQgenTokb8ORJfhxKlNiIbZLrF9FL8fAvYdEyH8WeRatI_AkH_uXwqNCZUL5qIGBwdMC4yhldwUSELpmpGKpbb44BeAcnN3wHr5qxCMtMJKb49az8NgH_0BjOkvqmtrj_0By_MR9FA/s640/Autumn_11.jpg" width="398" /></a></div>The Experienced Novicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13358903620765315347noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-258053178544313196.post-22249405039858224232011-10-19T16:22:00.000-04:002011-10-19T16:22:57.161-04:00Vintage McCalls 4762 Baby Doll dress Pattern from 1976 aka the Marcia Brady Dress<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHD8-v2Mr76J0hyphenhyphenQnbjfyMFBn17MLzotUDlkonClTsxqXxNWUJnGRnsMJGEWXCJK2gv2FlEYwD_u28teb4S3VQ3L4XCj41tgYeFINA0BSXkTYQIyIZyWyUnM66Z_nAt9S9QAuQOrRpeQM/s1600/dress+pics+014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" rda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHD8-v2Mr76J0hyphenhyphenQnbjfyMFBn17MLzotUDlkonClTsxqXxNWUJnGRnsMJGEWXCJK2gv2FlEYwD_u28teb4S3VQ3L4XCj41tgYeFINA0BSXkTYQIyIZyWyUnM66Z_nAt9S9QAuQOrRpeQM/s640/dress+pics+014.jpg" width="428" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSy9L4zWN3vuLndg_SnaPIAV-8_T5h-q_vzdqIbtWaFod-p7bLeOXwhjRwF_gxqNudF87Yb3PzOxoyat98V6p5iSwxefzst4iNjrE3yZ366fwqUUv-OLwuo0cHtkW4Yelf-pMwMPnIXuc/s1600/dress+pics+001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" rda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSy9L4zWN3vuLndg_SnaPIAV-8_T5h-q_vzdqIbtWaFod-p7bLeOXwhjRwF_gxqNudF87Yb3PzOxoyat98V6p5iSwxefzst4iNjrE3yZ366fwqUUv-OLwuo0cHtkW4Yelf-pMwMPnIXuc/s640/dress+pics+001.jpg" width="428" /></a></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Marcia! Marcia! Marcia! Finally finished the baby doll dress that I think Marcia Brady would have love. As I previously mentioned I was working on this floral baby doll dress using my vintage McCalls 4762 dress pattern from 1976. I will be the first to admit that I am a fan of fashion from the 60s and 70s. I was a big fan of the 60s and 70s fashion revival that happened in the early to mid 90s. Baby doll dresses, mod styled dresses, velvet leggings, long vests, palazzo pants and bell bottoms. Okay I didn’t really wear the bell bottoms, but I did wear my dad’s Navy issued dungaree pants which were pretty retro to me. I was pretty styling during my high school years. I still have a love for that era, which is probably why I was drawn to this pattern. Very Marsha Brady. I see a whole slew of these dresses made from various fabrics for my Fall wardrobe. For now I finished my first version using Rayon Challis from Fabric Mart. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHHGvETfp2Lt_2THZQhI6tqV7Pu3gn3QjanMWzSwtBur1BeGO1Gy0t5FiBUmFwT7hqi0_MLyfzE9BlqaMvpB5pGvth2jL_sJFRYbBasKRhBlSjVdmgf9M6sYPKTindFUdM-GlJdMxMU2k/s1600/McCalls+4762-retrobution+vintage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" oda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHHGvETfp2Lt_2THZQhI6tqV7Pu3gn3QjanMWzSwtBur1BeGO1Gy0t5FiBUmFwT7hqi0_MLyfzE9BlqaMvpB5pGvth2jL_sJFRYbBasKRhBlSjVdmgf9M6sYPKTindFUdM-GlJdMxMU2k/s640/McCalls+4762-retrobution+vintage.jpg" width="530" /></a></div></div><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 12pt;"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong>Pattern Review (The Pros):</strong> The pattern was very easy to follow and came together rather quickly. Does this mean my sewing skills are getting better? The dress would have probably been finished earlier if I hadn’t insisted on using French seams to finish the seams for most of the dress. I love how finished the dress looks from the inside.</div><div class="separator" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhKc7Qi8WvcGUA3Ec9Q9_uNsOl3dYwZ6cc6CKI52rFNSHSoVNBt9hWkSZaPzLomRJN3KTRSAoBJxZPk4OEadJMtgT24Eof-kHslzrB5TeEiXuJVXtkYslGr_O-mG9GTNE1oB2Gdl8Ta_Q/s1600/dress+pics+017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" rda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhKc7Qi8WvcGUA3Ec9Q9_uNsOl3dYwZ6cc6CKI52rFNSHSoVNBt9hWkSZaPzLomRJN3KTRSAoBJxZPk4OEadJMtgT24Eof-kHslzrB5TeEiXuJVXtkYslGr_O-mG9GTNE1oB2Gdl8Ta_Q/s640/dress+pics+017.jpg" width="428" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Back View</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong>The Cons:</strong> My only gripe about the pattern as it is for all dress patterns from the 70s is the ease they add into the design. I added ½ inch to the side seams for the bodice and sleeves because this was a size 14, but left the skirt portion alone. I found out that I really didn’t need the half inch for the bodice, but should have taken out at least ½-1 inch from the side seams for the skirt portion. The gathering was so big that it made me look pregnant. I had to sew on a sash to get a more fitted and flattering look.</div><div class="separator" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1KM1vMiUkwLy8Ge8eUM2PlhBdDBdlsu-9ldhSlNYKKuhejah3qtN_fItuoVG8ITAlpBl8z5s-3qooIAHVF6iSaPN6XPbhF5yw7RGyo7msa0u4DsNA0Vsmw3_w4_Ke3-kOeAq1js0td9k/s1600/dress+pics+018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" rda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1KM1vMiUkwLy8Ge8eUM2PlhBdDBdlsu-9ldhSlNYKKuhejah3qtN_fItuoVG8ITAlpBl8z5s-3qooIAHVF6iSaPN6XPbhF5yw7RGyo7msa0u4DsNA0Vsmw3_w4_Ke3-kOeAq1js0td9k/s640/dress+pics+018.jpg" width="428" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gratuitous Picture with Buni</td></tr>
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</div><div class="separator" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong>Did it come out like the pattern picture?</strong> Yes, except I added a sash, which you could hardly see and lace trim around the neckline and sleeve edge.</div><div class="separator" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong>Do you need to make adjustments?</strong> Yes, because I thought that a size 14 might be too fitted for me. I added ½ inch to the side seams for both bodice pieces. Turns out I didn’t need to add it and would have fit the size 14 just fine. Also because the bodice was so loose I didn’t need to add the zipper and could easily slipped the dress over my head. Had to add a sash to give me some shape because the skirt was too gathered to look flattering on me. I will need to keep these changes in mind for the next version of the dress.</div><div class="separator" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmJ_Tl4CO7won_PDYF34sGuO4IyyPnxaGvCAYJXrAVHxzc5a_7LpXU2BonQc170iiWqSYkdJFDHCvQC7o3d35uslBlzdDylP5OaO-CUaluEKX4VIchec3LszwTLY6ysUFT1PVvshyphenhyphen8c9c/s1600/dress+pics+021.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="428" rda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmJ_Tl4CO7won_PDYF34sGuO4IyyPnxaGvCAYJXrAVHxzc5a_7LpXU2BonQc170iiWqSYkdJFDHCvQC7o3d35uslBlzdDylP5OaO-CUaluEKX4VIchec3LszwTLY6ysUFT1PVvshyphenhyphen8c9c/s640/dress+pics+021.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sad attempt at getting the two kids to pose with me.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong>Pattern Level:</strong> Experienced beginner since you will be doing a sleeve and zipper insertion.</div><div class="separator" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><strong>What could I have done better?</strong> I should have trusted my gut and not added the ½ inch to the side seams although I felt that the ½ inch to the side seams of the sleeve portion made it a perfect fit for me. Also think I should have used a solid colored fabric for my sash since the busy print makes it blend into the dress.<br />
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<strong>Would you sew this pattern again?</strong> Already in the middle of making version number 2 with the changes I noted from making this dress.<br />
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<em><b>Pattern:</b></em> McCalls 4762 circa 1976 purchased from Retribution Vintage on Etsy.<br />
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<em><b>Fabric: </b></em>Rayon challis from Fabric Mart.<br />
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<b><em>Techniques:</em> </b><span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Sleeve insertion, gathering, French seams and invisible zipper</span>.<br />
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</div>The Experienced Novicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13358903620765315347noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-258053178544313196.post-75920358939944753882011-10-18T05:00:00.006-04:002011-10-19T09:05:54.689-04:00Work In Progress: Vintage McCalls 4762 Babydoll Dress from 1976<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHHGvETfp2Lt_2THZQhI6tqV7Pu3gn3QjanMWzSwtBur1BeGO1Gy0t5FiBUmFwT7hqi0_MLyfzE9BlqaMvpB5pGvth2jL_sJFRYbBasKRhBlSjVdmgf9M6sYPKTindFUdM-GlJdMxMU2k/s1600/McCalls+4762-retrobution+vintage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" oda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHHGvETfp2Lt_2THZQhI6tqV7Pu3gn3QjanMWzSwtBur1BeGO1Gy0t5FiBUmFwT7hqi0_MLyfzE9BlqaMvpB5pGvth2jL_sJFRYbBasKRhBlSjVdmgf9M6sYPKTindFUdM-GlJdMxMU2k/s640/McCalls+4762-retrobution+vintage.jpg" width="530" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqypSIdYHpnxO9wtOzhxvFTA11ncWBDaolUhTMX4sn0iv2GKIIELgw3A2b3-twVS7mlahG6cvOSnglzcz7m-9cKJe05TCIx35AKl00tIb6iN01OR0R3i_9wHs2QHMXztX2Da0SLO7VfAo/s1600/Mccalls+4762.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" oda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqypSIdYHpnxO9wtOzhxvFTA11ncWBDaolUhTMX4sn0iv2GKIIELgw3A2b3-twVS7mlahG6cvOSnglzcz7m-9cKJe05TCIx35AKl00tIb6iN01OR0R3i_9wHs2QHMXztX2Da0SLO7VfAo/s640/Mccalls+4762.jpg" width="516" /></a></div><br />
Spent a wonderful Sunday afternoon working on a babydoll dress that I am planning to wear during our vacation to the Bahamas. I present my current work in progress a babydoll dress made from McCalls 4762 from 1976 using rayon challis fabric from my favorite store Fabric Mart. <br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLV0ereWKRlHvwwv05ZX_28bIakhAnVBJIShDkyJeqglNJR55EV6MB2tjUmvyozr8so2FPJz0swPbPG6wOiy2dyuC2K5ui4pRg9GufoY0k1H4132Q7kjsT8mpouIPkgsMPbRKjVvP-WBI/s1600/IMG_2398.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" oda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLV0ereWKRlHvwwv05ZX_28bIakhAnVBJIShDkyJeqglNJR55EV6MB2tjUmvyozr8so2FPJz0swPbPG6wOiy2dyuC2K5ui4pRg9GufoY0k1H4132Q7kjsT8mpouIPkgsMPbRKjVvP-WBI/s640/IMG_2398.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">I still have to hem the dress and add lace to the sleeve ends. I am also planning on making a sash to wrap around the dress since I made the dress a little big despite it being a size 14. Currently it looks like a maternity dress, but should look wearable with a sash. The rayon challis was a dream to sew with, but I will save the details for the pattern review. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirbEM-FxTk8DFRBso5YOb0SOvASsRH2UoDSSW5JKsOGGeJuVw9Yo70tlOp9PId0pkpx5xP0amDo_alkQnFryl1AbT_5aoCNWB_MpcmXZUnGVPtxMfOl4Ynbr-ZuS9QKbMqUy8HYfEaxFE/s1600/IMG_2400.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" oda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirbEM-FxTk8DFRBso5YOb0SOvASsRH2UoDSSW5JKsOGGeJuVw9Yo70tlOp9PId0pkpx5xP0amDo_alkQnFryl1AbT_5aoCNWB_MpcmXZUnGVPtxMfOl4Ynbr-ZuS9QKbMqUy8HYfEaxFE/s640/IMG_2400.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lace detail</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Already have pieces cut out for another dress just like this with a different patterned rayon challis. Hope to post more pictures soon.The Experienced Novicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13358903620765315347noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-258053178544313196.post-66597015590520320882011-10-17T13:11:00.000-04:002011-10-17T13:11:02.311-04:00New Look 6981 Pleated Skirt<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH6krzd3QIsPhxGWhqfhUSmtDUyIhMzuUxDMjFdyHVSqN3-ZSsxsuK6TLxiMkScUgysyPCLgvro1Nc8kyMXMfzPiQHvOeVGzs2hN4LbiNhRra3riUcSbt9gXCAz3t7kniDEO_nWAl-W2I/s1600/6981.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" oda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH6krzd3QIsPhxGWhqfhUSmtDUyIhMzuUxDMjFdyHVSqN3-ZSsxsuK6TLxiMkScUgysyPCLgvro1Nc8kyMXMfzPiQHvOeVGzs2hN4LbiNhRra3riUcSbt9gXCAz3t7kniDEO_nWAl-W2I/s640/6981.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_lKPo4WdkHKjUsfUnLp2sFRhcx2Q8FMDMKzOw9VK2lDdsNUxWCSBBzBavwBInLBv0OpPKoqfWLq07JfEGkIo_S_0Rhnwli9wrwlTJ1tns2yW-pqXo1p3o8xbmJdwvgPpZn4anCeYXgDM/s1600/6981line.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" oda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_lKPo4WdkHKjUsfUnLp2sFRhcx2Q8FMDMKzOw9VK2lDdsNUxWCSBBzBavwBInLBv0OpPKoqfWLq07JfEGkIo_S_0Rhnwli9wrwlTJ1tns2yW-pqXo1p3o8xbmJdwvgPpZn4anCeYXgDM/s640/6981line.jpg" width="444" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Egads! I'm using a modern pattern. A big change for me since as of recently I've been sewing using vintage patterns. I really don't have anything against modern patterns. For some reason I have had very bad experiences regarding fit when it comes to modern patterns. I follow the recommendations for sizing on the pattern and I still get a bad fit. Especially when it comes to skirts. I think its because I have a two size difference between my hips and my waist so it makes fitting really difficult. Especially when it comes to dresses and skirts that have waistbands. Of course I finished my skirt way before I saw this post on the Selfish Seamstress's <a href="http://selfishseamstress.wordpress.com/2011/08/24/fwa-rebranding-the-adjustment-out-of-vanity/">blog</a> regarding full waist adjustments. Just might try that on my next version of this skirt. Onward to the review.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTR2GjPzN-DxODN9MNBARCg9_uLzV2XdQJg7Gf9vLNmfNx2KN_BPwMGUFwmHtsXKhYAtmo6AMzz3HJqPAfzV02xT0WIfH7Qyt71f0KAs-uaCvoo8SgkASNgWPiMXfNmbAbEbl6w18mqCY/s1600/IMG_2387.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" oda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTR2GjPzN-DxODN9MNBARCg9_uLzV2XdQJg7Gf9vLNmfNx2KN_BPwMGUFwmHtsXKhYAtmo6AMzz3HJqPAfzV02xT0WIfH7Qyt71f0KAs-uaCvoo8SgkASNgWPiMXfNmbAbEbl6w18mqCY/s640/IMG_2387.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong>Pattern Review (The Pros):</strong> The pattern was very easy and only required four pattern pieces: a waistband (front and back pieces) and a skirt (front and back pieces). This was also my first time putting in a side zipper (required for the pattern), but it was pretty easy to do. I decided to put the side zipper in using the <a href="http://www.afashionablestitch.com/2010/sewing/handpicking-a-lapped-zipper/">prickstitched lapped zipper tutorial</a> from <a href="http://www.afashionablestitch.com/">A Fashionable Stitch's blog</a>. A bit time consuming, but the end product looks great.</div><div class="separator" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><strong>The Cons: </strong>I didn't really have any gripes about the pattern, but it lacked any instructions on fitting a waistband that was two sizes bigger than the skirt piece. *Being sarcastic* Because every person on earth conforms to the standard measurement that are used to make patterns so they don't need to add instructions like that.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong>Did it come out like the pattern picture?</strong> Yes, except I added some black pipping.</div><div class="separator" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong>Do you need to make adjustments?</strong> Yes. According to the pattern my hip measurement place me between a size 14 and 16, but the waist measurement placed me closer to a size 18. Not wanting to have a huge unflattering skirt that looked it would swallow me up. I made a size 14 skirt with a size 16 waistband. Sadly this would not fit on my waist comfortably (I blame motherhood for my waist line), but the skirt width was perfect for me. I ended up having to recut the waistband as a size 18 and readjusted the width of the pleats to fit on the new waistband. In the future I might cut a size 16 waistband and do a full waist adjustment as detailed on the Selfish Seamstress's blog.</div><div class="separator" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong>Pattern Level:</strong> Beginner to intermediate. A beginner might have problems when it comes to hemming the skirt. Pleated skirts are notoriously hard to alter. At least for me. I suggest making sure the length is where you want it before you cut out the skirt, because its harder to make sure its even once its attached to the waistband.</div><br />
<strong>What could I have done better?</strong> Other than doing a full waist adjustment on the waistband I would do a better job sewing my piping. You can see where I sewed too close to the piping. I would also choose a heavier fabric because the quilting cotton seems to lightweight and tends to puff out.<br />
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<strong>Would you sew this pattern again?</strong> Yes, I really like pleated skirts so I am determined to make this skirt pattern work for me. <br />
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<em><b>Pattern:</b></em> New Look 6981 purchased from Joann.<br />
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<strong><em>Fabric: </em></strong>Quilting cotton from Joann.<br />
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><strong><em>Techniques: </em></strong>Prickstitched lapped zipper, piping, pleats and bias tape.</span>The Experienced Novicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13358903620765315347noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-258053178544313196.post-72403678547483956122011-10-16T12:01:00.000-04:002011-10-17T12:02:26.009-04:00Vintage Simplicity 7500 Bonus Basic Pattern from 1967<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk-4o-8RQy8YFAUSlYjJlWN_2pP4vwPDD5MlzOC03-jlSVLE9AZPzuytGJlX_JaRQ2RAFgNwqjJMjRvsZmL3TN9lU3TmIwJkgz6tzfylYnYY1UF196bT6_ov1r_ZwX8kfr6TgB5clN2AQ/s1600/Simplicity+7500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" oda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk-4o-8RQy8YFAUSlYjJlWN_2pP4vwPDD5MlzOC03-jlSVLE9AZPzuytGJlX_JaRQ2RAFgNwqjJMjRvsZmL3TN9lU3TmIwJkgz6tzfylYnYY1UF196bT6_ov1r_ZwX8kfr6TgB5clN2AQ/s640/Simplicity+7500.jpg" width="427" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguoC65_DbVvvxQKDfgB-EHL57EfTO2gwtbq9c1gzYUt2JnlPCzycnxOnZuoOmqvE7OWGXA2fKr_yaqcWULWcIyvkCGzrQPpfcag2Hxo7VyrhaThICadDA4QADW7jKUlO2BfSzWJx6aqrY/s1600/Simplicity+7500-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" oda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguoC65_DbVvvxQKDfgB-EHL57EfTO2gwtbq9c1gzYUt2JnlPCzycnxOnZuoOmqvE7OWGXA2fKr_yaqcWULWcIyvkCGzrQPpfcag2Hxo7VyrhaThICadDA4QADW7jKUlO2BfSzWJx6aqrY/s640/Simplicity+7500-2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", "serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Back in February I purchased Simplicity 7500 pattern circa 1967, which is a bonus basic pattern composed of a bodice, optional long/short sleeves and a-line/straight skirt. I was hoping to use this pattern as a sloper for myself after a few adjustments here and there. Of course in my world nothing really goes the way I want it. Of course it’s not the patterns fault. I’ve mentioned this time and time again how my choice in fabric always comes back to bite me in the arse! Fabric Mart was having a 75% Sale on their stretch rayon a few months back so I purchased several yards. The prints were lovely and for $2.50/yard I was sold! Of course when Mom took a look at them she shook her head and stated that although the fabric and print looked nice that I would still have a hard time sewing it. Of course Mom never explained why, but shook her head at me as her way of saying “you’ll see!” First, I am not a mind reader and second I love a challenge. Especially if that challenge is to prove my mom wrong and to wow her with my sewing skills. I think you may already guess where this is going. Read below to find out more.</span></div><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/AVvXsEhnnflvpKzih-2uz9c7a2huJKVL0idBplicuETuaFqMr54JCUdcfBzCxjVY8tVpdoFGq2bSQOPwjCI8KObuxoW5jSyUGVJfYnu67me-5T_RnhkfdhafZwgORUpsPl6QTBqEesC2DNLigJ8/s1600/IMG_2369.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" oda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnnflvpKzih-2uz9c7a2huJKVL0idBplicuETuaFqMr54JCUdcfBzCxjVY8tVpdoFGq2bSQOPwjCI8KObuxoW5jSyUGVJfYnu67me-5T_RnhkfdhafZwgORUpsPl6QTBqEesC2DNLigJ8/s640/IMG_2369.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Front View</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong>Pattern Review (The Pros):</strong> The pattern wasn’t complicated and consisted of a bodice that zipped down the center back, skirt and optional sleeves. I liked how the pattern was designed with lots of options where you can mix and match the pieces.</div><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc0xQUUAJbC585CkCff_dLbrZ7BpYrKHdQeKXq7Tk7ZVfdw6vofLZkT-xhSCi7ydU7LKgbmpcvcmMg_gEDC1vK3ycbtO8KIJ24VJrqisum9fRhqbw5pFoELOt9PTo65Cj18lP6J3PW2iQ/s1600/IMG_2365.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" oda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc0xQUUAJbC585CkCff_dLbrZ7BpYrKHdQeKXq7Tk7ZVfdw6vofLZkT-xhSCi7ydU7LKgbmpcvcmMg_gEDC1vK3ycbtO8KIJ24VJrqisum9fRhqbw5pFoELOt9PTo65Cj18lP6J3PW2iQ/s640/IMG_2365.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Back View</td></tr>
</tbody></table><strong>The Cons: </strong>Be warned that you will be sewing darts in your sleep after your done sewing this dress because this pattern requires twelve of them. The bodice itself contains eight darts. This was a pain for me since IMHO marking darts is the second most tedious sewing task second to sewing them. Especially if you are marking darts on fabric that doesn’t take well to chalk or disappearing ink. I guess having twelve darts can be a pro too since you have many places where you can adjust the patter to fit you. <br />
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Another gripe about the pattern is that the pattern has almost no ease to it. I’ve sewed several vintage patterns from the 60s and 70s and found that size 16 patterns and some size 14 patterns had a lot of ease added to them. Since the pattern was identified as a basic pattern I assumed that it had the same design ease added to it. I’ve read before that slopers are designed to be skin tight and that you are suppose to add wearing ease and seam allowance to them to make it wearable. I wasn’t expecting to do that with a basic pattern, but perhaps I should. Another assumption gone wrong. So if you are using this pattern than I suggest making a muslin (i.e. mock up) and start by adding a ½ inch to the side seams.<br />
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<tr style="mso-yfti-firstrow: yes; mso-yfti-irow: 0; mso-yfti-lastrow: yes;"><td style="background-color: transparent; border-bottom: #f0f0f0; border-left: #f0f0f0; border-right: #f0f0f0; border-top: #f0f0f0; padding-bottom: 4.5pt; padding-left: 4.5pt; padding-right: 4.5pt; padding-top: 4.5pt;"><div align="center" style="text-align: center;"><span style="mso-no-proof: yes;"></span></div></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi70gUgQYVa-kYwrk9C8FK7VcifJO9QlCmNm-tH4XvbH6xQDM6BPtZUuEjDJFBauOZFgU4uVL0yb1FDHyGSVq42NrEWnbqn5egiu8KGJto1gxFO-mlR40ZCrbF26VVEl_7E9lOxcfgDLvw/s1600/IMG_2366.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" oda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi70gUgQYVa-kYwrk9C8FK7VcifJO9QlCmNm-tH4XvbH6xQDM6BPtZUuEjDJFBauOZFgU4uVL0yb1FDHyGSVq42NrEWnbqn5egiu8KGJto1gxFO-mlR40ZCrbF26VVEl_7E9lOxcfgDLvw/s640/IMG_2366.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Side View</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong>Did it come out like the pattern picture?</strong> Yes, with exception that my front bodice darts don’t line up exactly with my front skirt darts. I must have sewn my front darts a little bit too big, but you can’t tell with print. At least the back bodice and skirt darts match up.</div><div class="separator" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong>Do you need to make adjustments?</strong> Yes, because the pattern was tight on me I had to sew my side seams at ½ inch instead of the recommended 5/8. I shortened the skirt and ended up making it a mini skirt instead of the intended knee length skirt. After wearing it the other day I feel that the dress is a bit tight around the midsection and tad short. </div><div class="separator" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong>Pattern Level:</strong> Beginner to intermediate. I’ve previously warned that there are lots of darts to sew so you really need to be precise. Especially when you are trying to line up your bodice and skirt darts, which might be tough for a beginner.</div><div class="separator" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><strong>What could I have done better?</strong> Not use the stretch rayon fabric. Okay it’s really not the fabrics fault. I wasn’t prepared with all the fraying and shedding the rayon fabric did while I was trying to sew it. I spent two days trying to sew the fabric pieces together because it frayed, moved around and then frayed some more. I mean I pinned the fabric together-it frayed, I ironed the fabric-it frayed, I sewed the fabric together-it frayed, I looked at the fabric and it frayed. I was so frustrated that I wanted to cry. I let the dress sit there for three weeks because I dreaded sewing the hem because of all the fraying. I didn’t want to mess it up so in the end I begged my mom to hem it. Boo hoo! The experienced novice ran to her mommy crying and begged her to finish the dress! Later on I found out that you can apply this liquid called “Fray Block” to the fabric to stop it from fraying. Too little too late there!<br />
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<strong>Would you sew this pattern again?</strong> I will definitely try again with lots of adjustments because the basic pattern looks very versatile and I would love to make other pieces of clothing using the pattern. Also since I am a glutton for punishment I might use another stretch rayon fabric, but with fabric block applied to prevent fraying.<br />
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<em><b>Pattern:</b></em> Simplicity 7500 circa 1967 purchased from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/dawnsdivinefinds?ref=seller_info"><span style="color: blue;">Dawns Divine Finds</span></a> on Etsy.<br />
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<em><b>Fabric: </b></em>Stretch rayon from Fabric Mart.<br />
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<div style="text-align: left;"><em><b>Techniques: </b></em><em><span style="font-style: normal; mso-bidi-font-style: italic; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Darts and invisible zipper</span></em>.</div>The Experienced Novicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13358903620765315347noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-258053178544313196.post-85788627639113418072011-09-07T07:15:00.000-04:002011-09-07T07:15:48.386-04:00Quick Craft Projet: Tissue Holders<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk07u6WEfBaxI6uDo64mKk6tGAll_e_IAgfBp-y8AWejuO3HyCdH_V-mPvzjfFKkR129PtjPKZ2_9-IO8vynWqIUPFAGqSZJDNWLxC6PrAV_pinPWPPemr2z4tcS4Sy5cKJkWsGgqsJ_Y/s1600/36640092.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" nba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk07u6WEfBaxI6uDo64mKk6tGAll_e_IAgfBp-y8AWejuO3HyCdH_V-mPvzjfFKkR129PtjPKZ2_9-IO8vynWqIUPFAGqSZJDNWLxC6PrAV_pinPWPPemr2z4tcS4Sy5cKJkWsGgqsJ_Y/s400/36640092.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Last month I was invited to a birthday party for some friends and decided to make some tissue holders as presents. I used the tutorial that Zhing made on her wonderful blog "<a href="http://littleprojectsinstyle.blogspot.com/">Little Projects in Style</a>." The process was pretty straight forward so check out her blog for the full details and instructions.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbyAqKtmAtN4fRMCdi7Yrptb7DjfDHE7r1KZbPDfJD8dOf4ukLuOQjojoNPh9RVh3aqDmskWBymaan2hSqUp8yyNBh3CoayIMrG1viZT8lDbYeb5dKkAOUTKJpcYhPduSZ3KdEJoD54T8/s1600/36640098.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="427" nba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbyAqKtmAtN4fRMCdi7Yrptb7DjfDHE7r1KZbPDfJD8dOf4ukLuOQjojoNPh9RVh3aqDmskWBymaan2hSqUp8yyNBh3CoayIMrG1viZT8lDbYeb5dKkAOUTKJpcYhPduSZ3KdEJoD54T8/s640/36640098.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
Here is how they looked after the all the sewing is finished and before the trimming of the threads and the clipping of the corners. I had to iron on some interfacing on the first three covers since I used flimsy quilting cotton. The striped fabric is outdoor canvas that was pretty sturdy so no need for interfacing there. After all the clipping and trimming are finished. This is what they look like when you turn them right side out and place the tissue inside.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1KBO-O9fCVlJhBa-_wXEsuUUOZ3JIU_0VsmszxEvVEgXZiDO6ngDjcuonZ53iZjGpDTW7SDV3Voar7nz5bXBYZricC9Pi8VnEU2XnZfj9Rh1FXXIGQuYBZWtA1w3iH5b5M-23jOq7Y8E/s1600/36640088.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" nba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1KBO-O9fCVlJhBa-_wXEsuUUOZ3JIU_0VsmszxEvVEgXZiDO6ngDjcuonZ53iZjGpDTW7SDV3Voar7nz5bXBYZricC9Pi8VnEU2XnZfj9Rh1FXXIGQuYBZWtA1w3iH5b5M-23jOq7Y8E/s640/36640088.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ56T-Hu2RYnRaJxd8TZqhngj5yj96Zfqq3SQ6ix2DQm723nnnx1DxhmXU-KiKZMdZehFkjf6McsUbI0L-kT_Cc77AvpgkD4UHL-hfQA522-6hBhyphenhyphenpuxF5LjCsxP60jBHZkRga_zP68So/s1600/36640093.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" nba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ56T-Hu2RYnRaJxd8TZqhngj5yj96Zfqq3SQ6ix2DQm723nnnx1DxhmXU-KiKZMdZehFkjf6McsUbI0L-kT_Cc77AvpgkD4UHL-hfQA522-6hBhyphenhyphenpuxF5LjCsxP60jBHZkRga_zP68So/s640/36640093.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
This is the back view of each of the tissue holders. All the fabric were scraps that I had so zero cost for me. Hooray for fabric hoarding!! My mom decided that she wanted Hula Girl version while I kept the striped canvas version since I have a bag made with the same fabric. The bottom two were given to the birthday girls along with some Cath Kidston Quilted purses I made, but that will be another post since that became a hellish experience. I also have a post coming for a Rayon dress I've been working on that just needs to be hemmed and photographed so I haven't been slacking on the sewing. Just been to lazy to take pictures, finish projects, start projects, do anything, etc.<br />
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The tissue holder pattern doesn't have to be used for tissues. My first version (without using the measurements in Zhings <a href="http://littleprojectsinstyle.blogspot.com/2011/04/crafts-tissue-holder-tutorial-for.html">tutorial</a>) came out too big, but became a perfect size for my Iphone. So now I have a new Iphone holder. I plan on making a lined version since I saw instructions somewhere about making it lined. Need to look for it though so I will definitely be making more. All the cutting, measuring, ironing and sewing took about 45 to an hour. I kind of lost track of time somewhere in the process, but that was because I was making four. I'm sure the time it takes to make one is much shorter. So good luck, stay tuned for more posts and check out Zhings blog since she has tons of other beginner friendly tutorials!The Experienced Novicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13358903620765315347noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-258053178544313196.post-43931750405100180932011-08-03T14:01:00.002-04:002011-08-04T07:09:12.800-04:00Sewing with Cath Kidston: Quilted Purse Attempt 2 - 4<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrarN5M_iBDjlkZa21TBobh9HicNOmK1TG9tHAXUbwIX02fW2PgIavMLqVp7U7OqKaT6W2EgmHKSgJH4EkceCOcevc8HaNIOAA8_XlZqL_KQs-pBmup0FZaVdjCu7ZW-5h1Sm7Xj37NkA/s1600/IMG_2156.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="445" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrarN5M_iBDjlkZa21TBobh9HicNOmK1TG9tHAXUbwIX02fW2PgIavMLqVp7U7OqKaT6W2EgmHKSgJH4EkceCOcevc8HaNIOAA8_XlZqL_KQs-pBmup0FZaVdjCu7ZW-5h1Sm7Xj37NkA/s640/IMG_2156.JPG" t$="true" width="640" /></a></div>Ever since my disastrous <a href="http://theexperiencednovice.blogspot.com/2011/07/summer-2011-quilted-purse-disaster.html">attempt</a> at making the "Quilted Purse" from Cath Kidston Sew book. I have decided to try again since it looked pretty easy and I know it couldn't be that difficult. Right? Anyways, this past weekend I rolled up my sleeves and tried again and ended up making three somewhat successful versions of the quilted purse with slightly different tweaks.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBZli1l536gv1nLANV0hK04NY7sl086oc71yHZR-vWMA6Tt1NIIYqMmygIDyNaBW_ceXJMptaGJvsIJALOXodoGb8BMlvZRQ3mN5yMeC-2HaCSQfecuLqPLEB16KjuFD1fGoOKxorVf4A/s1600/IMG_2168.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="488" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBZli1l536gv1nLANV0hK04NY7sl086oc71yHZR-vWMA6Tt1NIIYqMmygIDyNaBW_ceXJMptaGJvsIJALOXodoGb8BMlvZRQ3mN5yMeC-2HaCSQfecuLqPLEB16KjuFD1fGoOKxorVf4A/s640/IMG_2168.JPG" t$="true" width="640" /></a></div><br />
My first version is made using Hawaiian fabric purchased from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/sweetkapua">Sweet Kapua Variety & Fabric Shoppe</a> on Etsy and lined with some pink swiss dot fabric from <a href="http://www.fabricmartfabrics.com/">Fabric Mart</a>. If your wondering, I did follow all the instructions except for quilting the outer fabric and used some interfacing instead. I actually loved this version very much except for a few mistakes:<br />
<ul><li>First, I sewed the white rick rack too close to the inner flap so that when I flipped it right side out the rick rack virtually disappeared. Thankfully the pink lining peaked out just enough to give it a faux piping along the flap.</li>
<li>Second, I used interfacing that was too thin for a purse, which made my purse flopping and wrinkly despite my attempts to iron it.</li>
<li>Third, I did not notice that a small corner of my flap had a cut in it. The cut isn't too noticeable, but its in the worst possible location: the front flap. Boo. </li>
<li>Fourth, didn't really notice until the end, but if you have a design that runs one way then it will be upside down when you look at it from the back side. See the picture of the back the purses below and you will see what I mean. If you don't mind than its alright, but you have been warned.</li>
<li>Fifth, not really a mistake, but some bad planning. I didn't about what type of closure I was going to put until the end. I used a button maker and covered it with two layers of swiss dot fabric (fabric was really thin). I ended up hand sewing some super thin vintage elastic cord to the flap. This may not be the best way to do this since the cord may not stand up to constant use. Next time I would probably sew the elastic cord into the flap by sandwiching it between the two fabric layers.</li>
<li>Lastly, when I cut out the lining using the included pattern I noticed that it was the same dimensions as the outer fabric pattern. This meant that when I followed the directions and folded the top and bottom 3/8 inches and sewed it into the bag that the lining would be 1.5 inches short. I didn't really think this would affect the bag until I finished my third version. :-( Don't worry I will add my recommendations after my pattern review.</li>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeY-eSPc2_IOBd6vZDvg6vyR3DXCH1iTyKmf-ozKFzcQaBVbKG8oTD9cJn5rALowVJKaJfrmpo8Q8GqkA3QlvSr85BFuvvir9tKlTEjKkJr73Y3-QS1iEwOEbph7S207aqT9MLrlopJVg/s1600/IMG_2170.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="374" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeY-eSPc2_IOBd6vZDvg6vyR3DXCH1iTyKmf-ozKFzcQaBVbKG8oTD9cJn5rALowVJKaJfrmpo8Q8GqkA3QlvSr85BFuvvir9tKlTEjKkJr73Y3-QS1iEwOEbph7S207aqT9MLrlopJVg/s640/IMG_2170.JPG" t$="true" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Front View</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWBqwSOdnDEm_cQqB84PHrYgUd0EV1bHiOug4AyiciOzKcelvFIDXcWjw6V1M-TjxNtxaJ38OPPoivJa2wBsGQuZ89OMCIW0XZMw6ZnNzt-sosRtvFj_svXTKB3ZxKYfi4SlWTLTJ0Rbw/s1600/IMG_2172.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="452" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWBqwSOdnDEm_cQqB84PHrYgUd0EV1bHiOug4AyiciOzKcelvFIDXcWjw6V1M-TjxNtxaJ38OPPoivJa2wBsGQuZ89OMCIW0XZMw6ZnNzt-sosRtvFj_svXTKB3ZxKYfi4SlWTLTJ0Rbw/s640/IMG_2172.JPG" t$="true" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View of lining and hand sewn snap.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Version 2 of the Cath Kidston quilted purse was made using some japanese fabric from the Sweet Kapua Etsy store and a fat quarter I purchased from Joanns. This time I used mid weight fusible decor interfacing from Joanns, some vintage white jumbo rick rack trim, black ribbon and vintage sew on snaps. The results are as follows:<br />
<ul><li>First, I like this version overall. The mid weight interfacing made quite a difference in the overall appearance of the purse. The purse looked smoother and was able to hold its shape much better.</li>
<li>Second, I also sewed the rick rack on correctly and looks nice with busy frog print.</li>
<li>Third, I sewed the flap portion closed before I realized I would need to hand sew the snap to the fabric lining only. This wasn't too bad since the fabric lining was really thin and could easily be pulled away from the outer lining fabric when you are hand sewing. Of course this might be a coincidence or dumb luck for me. </li>
<li>Lastly, I don't know what I was thinking using thin black ribbon. The little loop was just my dumb attempt at giving it a handle although I did make the ribbon too short and used a super thin handle that can snap at any time. Double boo!</li>
</ul>I know you're probably wondering when am I going to actually make this a "quilted" purse like the instructions said on the Cath Kidston Sew book? Well look at version 3. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitUdwSiXkP5RMdFsbLN0X-7nxNKAzr2BhoBAfKdm5fDvLfeJXLzhx2ueprE5CDO8-OHVBZGvdtYjPYMCnxzHfxrMKmFvU8doUgzPT2IU1X9LpEZ45P0873dr9G8SpsNkArifXTH3yBrKY/s1600/IMG_2173.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="380" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitUdwSiXkP5RMdFsbLN0X-7nxNKAzr2BhoBAfKdm5fDvLfeJXLzhx2ueprE5CDO8-OHVBZGvdtYjPYMCnxzHfxrMKmFvU8doUgzPT2IU1X9LpEZ45P0873dr9G8SpsNkArifXTH3yBrKY/s640/IMG_2173.JPG" t$="true" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Version 3 with free motion quilting.</td></tr>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6WOzpe9eSnkDL80QC_FzH-FGKNwOft8Ydd5r_2mw375QNdnPfp6vWGCupmgflnt2ysqZ9RRDDdA9WfjksiB8N0C0NtSV_4U0ESRTXiS2l-LKl1bU9YHtekKAvY88yiZsw06bYH20ykvg/s1600/IMG_2179.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6WOzpe9eSnkDL80QC_FzH-FGKNwOft8Ydd5r_2mw375QNdnPfp6vWGCupmgflnt2ysqZ9RRDDdA9WfjksiB8N0C0NtSV_4U0ESRTXiS2l-LKl1bU9YHtekKAvY88yiZsw06bYH20ykvg/s640/IMG_2179.JPG" t$="true" width="640" /></a></div><br />
Made from quilting cotton purchased from Joanns. If the lining looks familiar than you are right because it was from the stretch cotton twill that I used to make my disastrous<a href="http://theexperiencednovice.blogspot.com/2011/03/fruit-salad-dress-disaster.html"> Fruit Salad dress</a>. Of course I still had to make it my own by adding some brown pipping and trying to do some free motion quilting instead of making the quilted diamonds like last time. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsUnzS9pnvDMLC_C6wbdMLqiDexUVKT8QfSd26V3fID-c6WBtA8fnuZkhMNMqJ6XBZrWVMQkPoS6xBtf9o72Tk6kUNiDPCcmJm3sIT6cgbjsfEDR2yuSuI2h3vLxhRHrIsdnQ5WDg3bfU/s1600/IMG_2174.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsUnzS9pnvDMLC_C6wbdMLqiDexUVKT8QfSd26V3fID-c6WBtA8fnuZkhMNMqJ6XBZrWVMQkPoS6xBtf9o72Tk6kUNiDPCcmJm3sIT6cgbjsfEDR2yuSuI2h3vLxhRHrIsdnQ5WDg3bfU/s640/IMG_2174.JPG" t$="true" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Botched free motion quilting detail.</td></tr>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Despite this being my fourth attempt (aka third successful attempt) at the quilted purse I still hit a snag or two:<br />
<ul><li>First, despite using a darning foot, lowering the feed dogs, setting the sewing speed to slow and using a quilting sewing needle on my machine. My free motion quilting results were not so good. I had a lot of long threads from pulling the fabric too fast and my swirls were not swirly. Of course, I didn't practice or anything like that since free motion quilting should be easy right?? Another classic experienced novice mess up. </li>
<li>Second, this was around the time I noticed that my lining was too short. So now I know that I should cut the lining fabric a bit longer.</li>
<li>Last, this was my mom's favorite and has promptly asked to have it despite my crappy attempt at free motion quilting. Mom claims it doesn't look as bad as I think it is, but then again I was thinking my results would like Vera Bradley and not "crappy".</li>
</ul>Here is my full pattern review for the Cath Kidston Quilted Purse.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCpu0ik75N5TYlzTugURwFzqONJ0Zn1MfGbXlLOSt13Mv3gA48KgH1wAphv4nSxnfKNyq5TvUwdrCt4q7tsNwXcBdkRAnaHKr856FyqpFVc0SR4DPgKBW6ksdqh5ZgwSQUXMyzTtvG9c4/s1600/IMG_2186.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCpu0ik75N5TYlzTugURwFzqONJ0Zn1MfGbXlLOSt13Mv3gA48KgH1wAphv4nSxnfKNyq5TvUwdrCt4q7tsNwXcBdkRAnaHKr856FyqpFVc0SR4DPgKBW6ksdqh5ZgwSQUXMyzTtvG9c4/s640/IMG_2186.JPG" t$="true" width="610" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Three versions of Cath Kidston Quilted Purse.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDJrcRwLasFX6o1FDnXZXg1H75KskUOmjri9q_Rrj2gfhJvMpYFSOf-JaqXANTCVcx7hsgCr-d_8PHYTIaMV86cYin8xpNEx2uSwlpCj0d_ScrnSvEUV6SCnzTz1-kCOZhqB3ULNOsIPk/s1600/IMG_2181.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="538" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDJrcRwLasFX6o1FDnXZXg1H75KskUOmjri9q_Rrj2gfhJvMpYFSOf-JaqXANTCVcx7hsgCr-d_8PHYTIaMV86cYin8xpNEx2uSwlpCj0d_ScrnSvEUV6SCnzTz1-kCOZhqB3ULNOsIPk/s640/IMG_2181.JPG" t$="true" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Back view of the quilted purses.</td></tr>
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<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><strong>Pattern Review (The Pros):</strong> This pattern review is for the "Quilted Purse" pattern that can be found in Cath Kidstons Sews book. A paper pattern is included in the book. I liked how the instructions can be followed by beginner, but you will need to read the instructions a couple times to make sure you have the sequence correct. I love how you have many options on trimming the purse and really making it your own. Also great that you can easily lengthen or shorten the pattern pieces to make it in whatever size you want. I see a bag for Ipad using this pattern! Also be warned that this pattern will try to get you to do a bunch of hand sewing so be prepared.</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div align="left"><strong>The Cons: </strong>The two cons I have about this pattern is the hand sewing required to achieve the quilted look. The instructions are included for marking out the one inch diamond grid, but the book doesn't include instructions on how to hand quilt the purse nor does it include instructions for machine quilting the diamonds, which would have helped me out. Another con is that pattern piece for the lining is too short once it is completely sewn in. There is an almost 1.5 inch gap between the bottom of the purse and lining. This issue can be easily amended, but someone doing this for the first time will be surprised. Lastly, not really a con, but something to keep in mind. I mentioned earlier that if you have fabric print that goes in one direction that it will the design will be upside down in the back because the outer fabric is one long rectangle folded in half. Just another surprise for the novice seamstress.</div><div align="left"><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><strong>Did it come out like the pattern picture?</strong> Yes, despite my little "tweaks" in trim.</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><strong>Do you need to make adjustments?</strong> Yes, will need to lengthen the lining pattern by 2-3 inches (includes the seam allowances) to make it fit the purse. I suggest being conservative and cutting the lining fabric long, baste the seam allowance and check it for fit inside the outer fabric. Also need to be aware when using one directional patterned fabric. See my previous comments.</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><strong>Pattern Level:</strong> Beginner. </div><div align="left"><br />
<strong>What could I have done better?</strong> How about reading all the directions first and following them the first time around before I decide to be creative. Also to double check my work instead of rushing through it.</div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"><br />
<strong>Would you sew this pattern again? </strong>Yes, I see a potential Ipad cover in my future.</div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"><strong>Would you recommend this pattern to a beginner? </strong>Yes, just take it slow, read through the directions a couple times, measure twice maybe three times and enjoy the process. Also don't be boxed in with what the picture shows you. I have realized that trims and closures can be just as interchangeable as fabric and can drastically change the look of the end product. Also don't be afraid to mess up. Experiment and don't forget that interfacing is your friend when it comes to making purses look really good. </div><div align="left"><br />
<strong><em>Pattern:</em></strong> Quilted Purse pattern from Cath Kidston Sew book purchased from Amazon.com.</div><div align="left"><strong><em>Fabric: </em></strong>Version 1: Hawaiian Fabric Cotton print from Sweet Kapua on Etsy & Swiss Dot Cotton lining from Fabric Mart. <br />
Version 2: Japanese Kawaii fabric from Sweet Kapua & Cotton Print (fat quarter) lining from Joanns. Version 3: Quilting cotton from Joanns and stretch cotton twill from Fabric Mart for the lining.</div><div align="left"><strong><em>Trim: </em></strong>Vintage white rick rack, black ribbon, self made button using button maker and brown cotton pipping.</div><div align="left"><strong><em>Techniques: </em></strong>Lining, quilting, interfacing, button making, piping and rick rack application and hand sewing metal snaps.</div></div>The Experienced Novicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13358903620765315347noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-258053178544313196.post-38952326652191975112011-07-28T12:26:00.002-04:002011-07-29T07:28:43.312-04:00Look what came in the post!<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I came home the other day and found two packages waiting for me. One of them was from my all time favorite online fabric store: </span><a href="http://www.fabricmartfabrics.com/"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Fabric Mart</span></a><span style="font-family: inherit;">. They were having an extra 75% sale and this is what I got.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 12pt;">Yards of beautiful Rayon Challis fabric for $2.49 a yard. I am planning on using the painterly designed fabric on the bottom to make myself a dress for an upcoming vacation.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-sGbuy8ht71T3DaWbMYIDPX_zqkHYJbQmVdJqQ0OsebJFI-q-NY9KLHiajBatLFpzY9TUVbtZFpa7Cg1DQiz_PuqydYtyiw0cS79ZqhxInE853AbSo6AJkl6iolHk7BUt1xQw2FWpmtI/s1600/IMG_2067.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-sGbuy8ht71T3DaWbMYIDPX_zqkHYJbQmVdJqQ0OsebJFI-q-NY9KLHiajBatLFpzY9TUVbtZFpa7Cg1DQiz_PuqydYtyiw0cS79ZqhxInE853AbSo6AJkl6iolHk7BUt1xQw2FWpmtI/s640/IMG_2067.JPG" t$="true" width="436" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 12pt;">Beautiful Kimono/Sakura/Floral print cotton fabric, dotted cotton fabric and apple green stretch poplin.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkTf-YdfoQBaEbgMSDTcrLXf8cyf9kiPB07nBGUC6BR1QqXyxGbigHBUqgUIFHNhzyGjdNgvE7WP5unfnAJWDiIBylJfl6Nrd9LhniRdK0Dpt_1iY0DbrH7c5YzDE3Gc3GZs3Nt8hPh5U/s1600/IMG_2078.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkTf-YdfoQBaEbgMSDTcrLXf8cyf9kiPB07nBGUC6BR1QqXyxGbigHBUqgUIFHNhzyGjdNgvE7WP5unfnAJWDiIBylJfl6Nrd9LhniRdK0Dpt_1iY0DbrH7c5YzDE3Gc3GZs3Nt8hPh5U/s640/IMG_2078.JPG" t$="true" width="416" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 12pt;">Gray rayon jersey for $1.50, purple lining for $0.38 a yard and zebra print polyester charmeuse.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDFLbz6YErGJlQuqVhzUwmJtMtIUcnhkRPO-aSFL3NyT9yk8ccwY3YM1hfiIwyALbFsn9CIg3_Kw4fF99OM8SYupk65Iq7U1X8rJ1ENR5sxpwgUyLWaOU0iNqlCOxvPvtycj1jlISg5Jo/s1600/IMG_2082.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDFLbz6YErGJlQuqVhzUwmJtMtIUcnhkRPO-aSFL3NyT9yk8ccwY3YM1hfiIwyALbFsn9CIg3_Kw4fF99OM8SYupk65Iq7U1X8rJ1ENR5sxpwgUyLWaOU0iNqlCOxvPvtycj1jlISg5Jo/s640/IMG_2082.JPG" t$="true" width="640" /></span></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 12pt;">As an added bonus they were having a special where they will give you ten yards of mystery fabric for free for orders that are over $75. Here is what I got. Some striped stretch cotton shirting, a black and white fabric that is thin and clingy and some ITY in a crazy animal print. Don’t know what I’ll do with the ITY, but at least it was free.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwCgCu_AhvaPEY2MhPsfyHIXa7WXh3obkTIJJV8NW37LTHzieeXgkEHFYbVeMdYsT5Qn32zPb-xr8gJux4UN_ersl2YFLhHAH0waHmx7FvldPpwA7qyLDWDV0pbWP83kZKce94vrYzbfo/s1600/IMG_2084.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwCgCu_AhvaPEY2MhPsfyHIXa7WXh3obkTIJJV8NW37LTHzieeXgkEHFYbVeMdYsT5Qn32zPb-xr8gJux4UN_ersl2YFLhHAH0waHmx7FvldPpwA7qyLDWDV0pbWP83kZKce94vrYzbfo/s640/IMG_2084.JPG" t$="true" width="482" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 12pt;">Feeling inspired yet? That’s not all! I also received my book order from Amazon that was full of crafty goodness. Here we have the Cath Kidston’s In Print book, Craft Hope, Sew & Stow and my favorite the Everything Alice Book.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMiePx8rn050PhuoAPDLXY-hyi8odCf7S1P-sqWu6KPxDVZx3og9_kWZeDYs30dnnBiHP1UkxEb20J_QdD0ncaW5Y3EwvMO1eXbOHi0jP01N6KYe5zIRi9ZWC8NkE5i87CFbvFyF46ahc/s1600/IMG_2137.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="488" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMiePx8rn050PhuoAPDLXY-hyi8odCf7S1P-sqWu6KPxDVZx3og9_kWZeDYs30dnnBiHP1UkxEb20J_QdD0ncaW5Y3EwvMO1eXbOHi0jP01N6KYe5zIRi9ZWC8NkE5i87CFbvFyF46ahc/s640/IMG_2137.JPG" t$="true" width="640" /></span></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> I am in love with the Everything Alice book. It has tons of crafts for the lovers of Alice in Wonderland and those who want to have an Alice-inspired party or to add a touch of Wonderland in their home. Here are my favorite crafts from the book. White rabbit and Cheshire Cat masks made from mosaic tiles.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgLR2lW3daLmRcpbIWIW8JrOaXI-hzo1QLjOTgKqoBnWIUGJ_bGpbiv4j6AVeeKrVn-Tluoj5z98D0p5FJK35pXtXXgfhdivByCcrECYaLEhAL9M4RYfBsYYP-ugTzJXFwEy7kvOlPt4o/s1600/IMG_2139.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgLR2lW3daLmRcpbIWIW8JrOaXI-hzo1QLjOTgKqoBnWIUGJ_bGpbiv4j6AVeeKrVn-Tluoj5z98D0p5FJK35pXtXXgfhdivByCcrECYaLEhAL9M4RYfBsYYP-ugTzJXFwEy7kvOlPt4o/s640/IMG_2139.JPG" t$="true" width="584" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Invitation Pillows.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUeWZJV9sZBCGI1aUcNed9Zf2i57xLe1brFKth1Xj1Y0VhPrIFNMsKWpU9UoHoQ5j7Evdgl0pLK2lTXiBDGcjqHpmY3d6R6peQaE4cw8dQQdz7-qxsjTi2J5ollkIRiguAUGXgAj7PwsU/s1600/IMG_2144.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUeWZJV9sZBCGI1aUcNed9Zf2i57xLe1brFKth1Xj1Y0VhPrIFNMsKWpU9UoHoQ5j7Evdgl0pLK2lTXiBDGcjqHpmY3d6R6peQaE4cw8dQQdz7-qxsjTi2J5ollkIRiguAUGXgAj7PwsU/s640/IMG_2144.JPG" t$="true" width="466" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Wonderland tea party hats.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirg9PMIxrYrLYfTLIGmmvZfNcyFndDZeYO6K54xApgvDcx2xQZk0qT5IqIY1yy5EARl8nw_IssK1R7jry5L_lhsQw16rQKz8Eb29yLy3oZEOJfc81sUdWvCpiL68MlkTNFiy-bgNFZKlU/s1600/IMG_2146.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirg9PMIxrYrLYfTLIGmmvZfNcyFndDZeYO6K54xApgvDcx2xQZk0qT5IqIY1yy5EARl8nw_IssK1R7jry5L_lhsQw16rQKz8Eb29yLy3oZEOJfc81sUdWvCpiL68MlkTNFiy-bgNFZKlU/s640/IMG_2146.JPG" t$="true" width="464" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">And Wonderland aprons.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGfJddhBnnci1Rym-N2dh2RGy2aHCoE7p0Gg-Iw0dKbEWq5QRPVyOwF2xPtcKrWbXzSbuPjz8qtEpUHb3yot14Ne_vqQW7BgLJ9Dwneu4x8HFvGqWZEeXdViN-9g1KSiSiTLbp0OWslbA/s1600/IMG_2149.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGfJddhBnnci1Rym-N2dh2RGy2aHCoE7p0Gg-Iw0dKbEWq5QRPVyOwF2xPtcKrWbXzSbuPjz8qtEpUHb3yot14Ne_vqQW7BgLJ9Dwneu4x8HFvGqWZEeXdViN-9g1KSiSiTLbp0OWslbA/s640/IMG_2149.JPG" t$="true" width="488" /></span></a></div><div align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The book contains all the patterns and instructions to make these items and more. They even have recipes for red velvet cupcakes, macaroons, lemonade and everything Alice. So if you are a fan of Alice in Wonderland than order yourself a copy. I got mine from <a href="http://www.amazon.com/">Amazon</a>. Hope you’re feeling inspired because I am. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></div>The Experienced Novicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13358903620765315347noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-258053178544313196.post-11142977086269298422011-07-28T12:12:00.002-04:002011-07-29T07:27:24.484-04:00Summer 2011 Quilted Purse Disaster<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Last night I decided to work on a birthday present for my BFF who just celebrated her birthday last week. My BFF will be traveling back to visit next month so I figured I had time to make something small for her. I recently purchased the Cath Kidston Sewing book, which had lots of cute projects. I decided to make the Quilted Purse since it looked pretty easy. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Being the “Experienced Novice”, having made several bags before and feeling confidant with my sewing skills I decided to just wing it. Briefly browsed through the directions (I’ll just use them as guidelines), decided to use some already precut scraps (it was a pain to pull out the pattern and mark it on the fabric) and eyeballed the purse dimensions. I ended up cutting both the outer fabric and lining as a single piece instead of the two pieces for the lining as instructed. I’m sure you know where this is going.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Here was my workstation when I just started making the purse as I was feeling confidant and full of myself. The pink Hawaiian fabric was the going to be the outside and black floral fabric in the back left was my lining.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmAQIW7pORD4ic_o5RPc5vUXEo2drWG3InXxe6hpdN6LxXyvkvPWiFK9nszHfok0uqqNdspn8R3BUItGBb1i7O0TSvQR8wJZTsbWeNiCEfhSBD3h1FKZCziC2TDitRQfHqxQbYGTlxR8w/s1600/IMG_2091.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="361" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmAQIW7pORD4ic_o5RPc5vUXEo2drWG3InXxe6hpdN6LxXyvkvPWiFK9nszHfok0uqqNdspn8R3BUItGBb1i7O0TSvQR8wJZTsbWeNiCEfhSBD3h1FKZCziC2TDitRQfHqxQbYGTlxR8w/s640/IMG_2091.JPG" t$="true" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Because I saw the word “quilted” in the title for this purse I thought I was suppose to use batting (the rectangular white stuff in my picture above) to make it look quilted. Please note that I have never quilted anything in my life, but have read about it on countless blogs and have shopped in quilting stores. So I felt fairly I was experienced enough to figure out how to quilt. I followed the book instructions to mark one inch square grids on the right side of the outer fabric, I basted the batting underneath and sewed away. I then basted some rick rack on the flap piece, pinned the lining (right sides facing), sewed up the sides (with a spot for turning) and this is what I ended up with.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The outside.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8RvIMi13Ah542l29AwsMN7cNi4DARIjLnxDsNpgK-2MeqAfF-1AxHebYXdwxgIJdI7bkJZC7bxjK_vVNFOPuuBJUUVS7atKwNxgDWMGP35X22MFlnVCsSCRGS84VgE2gkVIRZ-YC4K3w/s1600/IMG_2126.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="432" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8RvIMi13Ah542l29AwsMN7cNi4DARIjLnxDsNpgK-2MeqAfF-1AxHebYXdwxgIJdI7bkJZC7bxjK_vVNFOPuuBJUUVS7atKwNxgDWMGP35X22MFlnVCsSCRGS84VgE2gkVIRZ-YC4K3w/s640/IMG_2126.JPG" t$="true" width="640" /></span></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The lining side.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEsbM_KxUOF4pgbpzU-F601S0fq5TmnLUczv_aPi-uYf7sVxNxmWvBlaPK-lcfyRnTa_K0rtej2fQ-o6iMLk13ErCa8LtcjFab1uguO4GWhDbQPTMyE8_-oeJ6e80Pp9X25UwG8DxvTs4/s1600/IMG_2128.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="409" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEsbM_KxUOF4pgbpzU-F601S0fq5TmnLUczv_aPi-uYf7sVxNxmWvBlaPK-lcfyRnTa_K0rtej2fQ-o6iMLk13ErCa8LtcjFab1uguO4GWhDbQPTMyE8_-oeJ6e80Pp9X25UwG8DxvTs4/s640/IMG_2128.JPG" t$="true" width="640" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Despite the glaringly obvious flap that was sewn on backwards and the crappily applied white rick rack. I was just going to work with it and fold up the purse and sew up the sides. The backwards flap will just be a cute contrast I intentionally did to break up the pattern (so I told myself).</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf6iuygjrtrhmAGYF_JQx-r9M73_WbmiszoBez-MnqYAaZWkA7WU7kZNWidQDb7WVBUnSv6s-Wgv1aRcSxBsl-55QzQVT4-NyhMob8jmgCE4aD736ZX6oJektQt1NyuDuSFd_lO_jDpVE/s1600/IMG_2131.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="433" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf6iuygjrtrhmAGYF_JQx-r9M73_WbmiszoBez-MnqYAaZWkA7WU7kZNWidQDb7WVBUnSv6s-Wgv1aRcSxBsl-55QzQVT4-NyhMob8jmgCE4aD736ZX6oJektQt1NyuDuSFd_lO_jDpVE/s640/IMG_2131.JPG" t$="true" width="640" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Then I realized as I folded l the purse piece in half and tried to sew up the sides that my sewing machine couldn’t sew through the double layer of fabric and batting. The layers were just too thick when doubled up. I went back and read the supply list for the quilted purse and I realized that batting or any type of backing wasn’t listed anywhere. The quilted purse was supposed to be made with two pieces of fabric and the hand sewn grid outline was the quilted design detail. The purse wasn’t supposed to really be quilted at least not quilted using batting. No wonder I couldn’t sew through the layers of fabric. So ends my embarrassing story of the “Experience Novice” thinking she can once again wing it while sewing something. Sadly I am left with something that looks like this. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKkDc3D3BA4sqp5KKTJCiGXf4xI7NnlrQMW2xfp-e_IeBPv7FpQaHBD2g4hCUxRvrtSpDzefeH91v2fUewkBQ6J0IpYoxfINewC5vspLmfQRE2whnTSmtLazt3URByzKNQ5wjtYCw-xOo/s1600/IMG_2129.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKkDc3D3BA4sqp5KKTJCiGXf4xI7NnlrQMW2xfp-e_IeBPv7FpQaHBD2g4hCUxRvrtSpDzefeH91v2fUewkBQ6J0IpYoxfINewC5vspLmfQRE2whnTSmtLazt3URByzKNQ5wjtYCw-xOo/s640/IMG_2129.JPG" t$="true" width="640" /></span></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I don’t know what to do with it. Perhaps use it as a hot pad? Or maybe I can sew elastic down the middle or another piece of fabric and use it to hold my crochet hooks? Or pin it to my inspiration wall to remind myself what not to do? Your suggestions are welcome. I have not been deterred. I still have time and fabric so I will give this another go, but I will read the instructions and use the pattern this time. I’m sure I can make it. Wish me luck.</span></div>The Experienced Novicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13358903620765315347noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-258053178544313196.post-39861494271268919122011-05-20T07:44:00.000-04:002011-05-20T07:44:17.887-04:00Clothing Designer Alert: Calypso St. Barth for TargetAs a "novice" seamstress I have shunned buying any new dresses since I thought could always make one in a fabric, style and size that I wanted. I was also under the impression that what was supposedly "in" right now didn't really match up with what I thought was "in" or "stylish" for me. You should have seen my expression when I walked into Target this past weekend and came face to face with the <a href="http://www.target.com/gp/browse.html/%20ref=sc_iw_r_4_1_0/?node=2571338011">Calypso St. Barth for Target</a> collection. I don't know if it was the colors, the well made dresses (dresses are lined/embroidered), the fact that I would love to dress as if I was on a beach vacation all year long or that I could fit the size medium dresses that made me love this collection. I think it was all of the above. <br />
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I have been a great follower of the Target x Designer team ups since its inception. My favorite clothing line was the Luella collaboration. Fit has always been an issue with these designer collaborations. Even at my skinniest I seemed to always fit the bodice of the dresses, but the skirts would be humongous and sometimes vice versa. Sleeved tops have been issue too where the shirt would fit perfectly, but my upper arms would always be squeezed like sausages. As of late, I haven't been too impressed with the latest designs until now. <br />
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Here are some of my favorite Calypso St. Barth for Target pieces:<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/AVvXsEgqS-wRx6BX7xXr_ZR0cyMHsjn8N-LEJX2baMXeCGQM-cKvrNp9ZV31M-LrnZhLqynTyjwKND-9RvniIdoqFvdNyRwmc9jOoRjxx1cyEDpU3k4i2F7Fg2Tlu0f_0u0U5VTds5BJcoLmtys/s1600/calypso-st-barth-target-maxi-dress.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" j8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqS-wRx6BX7xXr_ZR0cyMHsjn8N-LEJX2baMXeCGQM-cKvrNp9ZV31M-LrnZhLqynTyjwKND-9RvniIdoqFvdNyRwmc9jOoRjxx1cyEDpU3k4i2F7Fg2Tlu0f_0u0U5VTds5BJcoLmtys/s400/calypso-st-barth-target-maxi-dress.jpg" width="325" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love the Maxi Dress and Khaki Dress</td></tr>
</tbody></table>I ended up purchasing several dresses from the collection and haven't looked back since. So go to Target now if you want a chance on getting your hands on these dresses. I ended having to order the maxi dress online because my size was not available in any of the stores in my area.<br />
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Here are some more pictures of the Calypso dresses. I recommend wearing a belt with the tunics if you are as shapeless and short as I am and want a more tailored look. Of course this won't be any problem if you wear it to the beach.<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/AVvXsEheaOeDRer5OsI5gxWq6boU8mgB2gxU2Ldon1o84DRivI-_3xB-EO0VvJyYavGqPLJzxa4FVWnS7p_lVz9iNcIM9Je4wOKWh07L8Z9xV6_fCeiB6RvYX45XiBX6UJQE-zNWh9YgpeGyhWI/s1600/5.17.11+T+Calypso+St.+Bart+for+Target+Dress.+Gap+Pants..JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" j8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheaOeDRer5OsI5gxWq6boU8mgB2gxU2Ldon1o84DRivI-_3xB-EO0VvJyYavGqPLJzxa4FVWnS7p_lVz9iNcIM9Je4wOKWh07L8Z9xV6_fCeiB6RvYX45XiBX6UJQE-zNWh9YgpeGyhWI/s400/5.17.11+T+Calypso+St.+Bart+for+Target+Dress.+Gap+Pants..JPG" width="147" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tunic Dress</td></tr>
</tbody></table><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/AVvXsEhd0HLFAck2vXPS4hl9Z8ZtXqnyr0AWUUCRm8iPWJh6Rt4EHnQhyphenhyphen1mCfhzS7qZhsZ1RBbnjnlu3HajsQZ-xx7sB06qjkPvsHPE85xOUw3_ZRnzNiutD7QOAjtZGr9SMZLu8WEsQSrzql5M/s1600/5.11.11W+Calypso+St.+Bart+for+Target+Dress.Gap+Pants.Old+Navy+Bolero..jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" j8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd0HLFAck2vXPS4hl9Z8ZtXqnyr0AWUUCRm8iPWJh6Rt4EHnQhyphenhyphen1mCfhzS7qZhsZ1RBbnjnlu3HajsQZ-xx7sB06qjkPvsHPE85xOUw3_ZRnzNiutD7QOAjtZGr9SMZLu8WEsQSrzql5M/s400/5.11.11W+Calypso+St.+Bart+for+Target+Dress.Gap+Pants.Old+Navy+Bolero..jpg" width="138" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Khaki dress</td></tr>
</tbody></table><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/AVvXsEjxYAtFQhzgGTadwRcdbpx3Q5bbvC3MpGuid4IfM_f9f1jG0pIOA0xu6v0ky5ZnL9QkPUUbMwyNBCLvAc9TG0OpCeQmCNkCx_j58mDn0UpIONbYAIT7emF7RgU4rcVwNUoRZ1zv3QNmw5o/s1600/CIMG0903.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" j8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxYAtFQhzgGTadwRcdbpx3Q5bbvC3MpGuid4IfM_f9f1jG0pIOA0xu6v0ky5ZnL9QkPUUbMwyNBCLvAc9TG0OpCeQmCNkCx_j58mDn0UpIONbYAIT7emF7RgU4rcVwNUoRZ1zv3QNmw5o/s400/CIMG0903.JPG" width="162" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My favorite colored tunic dress</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
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Sorry for the lack of sewing posts. My sewing has been stalled due to the unfinished sewing room/craft room remodel. Finally got my dad to agree on coming over this weekend to help me hang the cabinets so hopefully I will have a great completed sewing room remodel post and finally have some space to start sewing again.The Experienced Novicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13358903620765315347noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-258053178544313196.post-48306033421256754682011-05-02T09:44:00.000-04:002011-05-02T09:44:09.447-04:00Pent Up Sewing EnergyI had some pent up sewing energy this past weekend and really went overboard on some super easy patterns. The first pattern was McCalls 5360 Infinite Dress. I purchased this from Etsy and when they say its easy. It's really easy. All you have to do is cut the pattern on the fold and sew one seam. Since the pattern is meant for a knit fabric you don't even have to hem the edges unless you really want to. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_4G2zvSeDv7xpdtCP5e10Y9x-LUI1fbGucoBT8Z3xzAczl_PPprpZnk_rEe2gCztSaW1z9MUqUGO0Usaoj2mUJ1xkGvHGBpt5dfCgE2meqsZgHBs7vFJPiee00XvVArlz5H_EbdsaK5M/s1600/5360mccall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="216" j8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_4G2zvSeDv7xpdtCP5e10Y9x-LUI1fbGucoBT8Z3xzAczl_PPprpZnk_rEe2gCztSaW1z9MUqUGO0Usaoj2mUJ1xkGvHGBpt5dfCgE2meqsZgHBs7vFJPiee00XvVArlz5H_EbdsaK5M/s320/5360mccall.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
I made the first one in under an hour. Had to set up my sewing machine, cut the pattern and play with my new serger so it took longer than expected. I used a floral knit jersey that was super stretchy that was from Fabric Mart and here is the finished product. So cute! I loved this style of dress since you can wear the dress in many different ways depending on how you fix the straps.I loved this style of dress since you can wear the dress in many different ways depending on how you fix the straps.<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/AVvXsEhgs_eEJ25Seq72PexToS3yNE3TTEyTI8WYJXcHNhpi7WPr2lCEuBxxOr2N1Of8nZA9hVsHaNB_CIzbqNu8X5ZdgrsXGppoWEw3xm_4496zQh-vAFT8n7QuU07YAGMYXEcofN99YLoILuM/s1600/IMG_1915.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" j8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgs_eEJ25Seq72PexToS3yNE3TTEyTI8WYJXcHNhpi7WPr2lCEuBxxOr2N1Of8nZA9hVsHaNB_CIzbqNu8X5ZdgrsXGppoWEw3xm_4496zQh-vAFT8n7QuU07YAGMYXEcofN99YLoILuM/s400/IMG_1915.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dress Configuration 1</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijBsY-CEpC1Y4DSVjYqlfvppPADG6WNEa-KMBaPAChCLWh_Hrz_O9sxRbXoF3J_fxvDaJPfYNJKwBzD-X5JhiKu14b9SPRzMhFwFQM0I8Yyb0nfbRvG8-t4TQRUvSszsj03Stl37FOfJw/s1600/IMG_1920.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" j8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijBsY-CEpC1Y4DSVjYqlfvppPADG6WNEa-KMBaPAChCLWh_Hrz_O9sxRbXoF3J_fxvDaJPfYNJKwBzD-X5JhiKu14b9SPRzMhFwFQM0I8Yyb0nfbRvG8-t4TQRUvSszsj03Stl37FOfJw/s400/IMG_1920.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dress Configuration 2</td></tr>
</tbody></table><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/AVvXsEg2rAlO2oZhDx6GSWcyazPR06nTqi0ofvqzk1IjXAb4VUqKmuF8UvuetZBON824fzy5N6bfPVM7ucArKxG_TXyjUfd4GOgIVfAL1HhPv822B9c-2R3lxDfUcGVKNboECPx31afQxwXyYFI/s1600/IMG_1924.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" j8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2rAlO2oZhDx6GSWcyazPR06nTqi0ofvqzk1IjXAb4VUqKmuF8UvuetZBON824fzy5N6bfPVM7ucArKxG_TXyjUfd4GOgIVfAL1HhPv822B9c-2R3lxDfUcGVKNboECPx31afQxwXyYFI/s400/IMG_1924.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dress Configuration 3</td></tr>
</tbody></table> Sadly I ran out of fabric when I made the floral version. The dress is a bit short, but can easily be worn with pants or shorts. If you ever make this dress just know that it takes about 3 5/8 yards of fabric for the full version. If you want a shorter version you might be able to get away with 3 1/4. This all depends on how short you want it. Of course in typical "novice seamstress" style I was so stoked with my first success that I wanted to make more. So I went to Joanns and raided their clearance section and found a red polyester jersey knit fabric and made another version. Sadly this version ended up so-so.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg773UXj7WW8hah0GMCp23CsEDGHUmQSzj4ol2uC4RumnfJMgnuFZ8f2oC3TCZbrbU0yx4LKHMgUo3-CkMpOHYkM4NoTtMMV8sgXykANUT6Z7X6cERPMUkT8uQyYQXf7fp9VIWy-FD6sik/s1600/IMG_1940.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" j8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg773UXj7WW8hah0GMCp23CsEDGHUmQSzj4ol2uC4RumnfJMgnuFZ8f2oC3TCZbrbU0yx4LKHMgUo3-CkMpOHYkM4NoTtMMV8sgXykANUT6Z7X6cERPMUkT8uQyYQXf7fp9VIWy-FD6sik/s400/IMG_1940.JPG" width="300" /></a><br />
</td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Red Polyester Knit Front</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh84y_4rlokvVZvlBOsUMzKdt-O8NN-CY7vVCXEMgIbO6SqbVcugvbLdX1cF8EDbk0c2t4aX25nvoJ5DE7cQa-FosuFQI6mqB93k_4QIAOK3RcXkkjTRF3l9kvSepLdE3AoHBXOifMl0O0/s1600/IMG_1942.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" j8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh84y_4rlokvVZvlBOsUMzKdt-O8NN-CY7vVCXEMgIbO6SqbVcugvbLdX1cF8EDbk0c2t4aX25nvoJ5DE7cQa-FosuFQI6mqB93k_4QIAOK3RcXkkjTRF3l9kvSepLdE3AoHBXOifMl0O0/s400/IMG_1942.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Back View</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
As you can see the fabric isn't as clingy as the first version. For this version I decided to hem everything and it seemed to make the fabric less stretchy. Also the weight of this type of knit seemed too heavy to comfortable make all the other versions of the dress I made before. It just felt like the drape was all wrong for this dress design. Oh well lesson learned. I really need to stick with a knit that has a lot of stretch, possibly four way stretch if necessary. I prefer to work with the printed knits since I really love the floral version, but it can be a hassle since the back side of the fabric can show through sometimes. My quest continues. Perhaps some really nice ITY knit might work for this dress. I've seen that the ITY comes in a lot of yummy prints.<br />
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Since my sewing mojo was on a roll. I decided to tackle another sewing project using some ruffle fabric that I found on clearance while I was at Joanns. I have been loving the Coastal Curtsy Skirt that was featured on the <a href="http://thedillspiel.blogspot.com/2010/09/coastal-curtsy-skirt-tutorial.html">No Big Dill website</a> and just recently ordered some <a href="http://www.rufflefabric.com/">Ruffle Fabric</a> to make one of my own. I was lucky to find this ruffle fabric at Joanns so I decided to make a practice skirt. This skirt was just as easy as the Infinite Dress. Two measurements, one cut and one seam. I didn't hem the skirt or even add a waistband as suggested since it just slipped over my waist. Although I may add one in the future.<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/AVvXsEjri4PQHbQhySbkiLKKGP7S0xQ2tf-mwm2Zvxmw2ClK0xySPzCJdIsO-6QN2EOFgIekTUWGCkzBs7-Nfvs33wshJd7T_4LSPP4tKPZvXTHi7xWnMhx4ENGFjc-GV92JBsVw5DMpi7NI68c/s1600/IMG_1925.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" j8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjri4PQHbQhySbkiLKKGP7S0xQ2tf-mwm2Zvxmw2ClK0xySPzCJdIsO-6QN2EOFgIekTUWGCkzBs7-Nfvs33wshJd7T_4LSPP4tKPZvXTHi7xWnMhx4ENGFjc-GV92JBsVw5DMpi7NI68c/s400/IMG_1925.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Coastal Curtsy Skirt Front</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><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/AVvXsEjh0d01SkzQMBXl900pDRFBYO9PrizxxQSKImrLTmENEo5X30jAPJ0VL0mYcrhM_qNtW8iZ-0I5DpW0214En29BSvK2f8IRJD0fxpNLHIsYjICMkgg6PQdK8LAxIlqj-nCGOPAz9LwtCkw/s1600/IMG_1929.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" j8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh0d01SkzQMBXl900pDRFBYO9PrizxxQSKImrLTmENEo5X30jAPJ0VL0mYcrhM_qNtW8iZ-0I5DpW0214En29BSvK2f8IRJD0fxpNLHIsYjICMkgg6PQdK8LAxIlqj-nCGOPAz9LwtCkw/s400/IMG_1929.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Coastal Curtsy Skirt Back</td></tr>
</tbody></table>I love how this skirt fits. I am so in love with the back "tail" as my mother calls it. I had a great time swishing it back and forth. The cut of the skirt makes the ruffles hang vertically in front and horizontally in the back. Sheer genius. My ruffles are an inch long so a bit shorter than the one that was made on the No Big Dill blog, but it still looks great. I can't wait to make more of this. I also have plenty of fabric to make a regular skirt for myself and maybe some leggings or a dress for Buni.<br />
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My last project from this past weekend was a simple circle skirt made from Panne Velvet using the tutorial on the <a href="http://www.dana-made-it.com/2010/09/circle-skirt-tutorial.html">MADE website</a>. Another super easy skirt that involved a little bit of math. I was surprised how easily it came together. My next version will be a bit shorter as I overestimated the length. The skirt is really twirly so it does easily fly up in case your very modest like me. Phew.. Definitely a very successful weekend of knit sewing. Hope everyone had a great weekend. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRJzND2WeOP4THJDwozZPTWoxBtMGlSb_wfD4-tXKyqABoSBJTsAOQGKFb13vVl-TZARtarym2dsmNXGbgJ34wgWSXoZnouCLSj0PhEQcfNqGuK3VFzopAC8Ge2SI5Hkci1FdA-ScrP_U/s1600/IMG_1932.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" j8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRJzND2WeOP4THJDwozZPTWoxBtMGlSb_wfD4-tXKyqABoSBJTsAOQGKFb13vVl-TZARtarym2dsmNXGbgJ34wgWSXoZnouCLSj0PhEQcfNqGuK3VFzopAC8Ge2SI5Hkci1FdA-ScrP_U/s400/IMG_1932.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Circle Skirt in Panne Velvet</td></tr>
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<div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgs_eEJ25Seq72PexToS3yNE3TTEyTI8WYJXcHNhpi7WPr2lCEuBxxOr2N1Of8nZA9hVsHaNB_CIzbqNu8X5ZdgrsXGppoWEw3xm_4496zQh-vAFT8n7QuU07YAGMYXEcofN99YLoILuM/s1600/IMG_1915.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>The Experienced Novicehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13358903620765315347noreply@blogger.com