The Rain Dance Dress

I made this Purple Dress (V1250 Dress) at the end of July and I have worn it 4 times.  I'm calling it the Rain Dance Dress - since, every time I wear it I get caught in the rain.  LOL!  And, no I don't think to take my umbrella when I put it on.  OMG!

Pattern Description: 

DKNY Vogue 1250, Misses Close-fitting Dress. 

Pattern Sizing:

6-20. I made the 14.  

 

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?
Yes!

Were the instructions easy to follow?
Yes!

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?
I made it, I love it! 3 pattern pieces and the finished dress is so pretty!

Fabric Used:
1 3/8 yards of Ponte Knit; purchased in a 1/2 priced bundle ($5) from Fabric Mart

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:
The first time I made this dress - never reviewed; I sewed a size 20 according to my measurements.  I ended up having to take it in every where to make the dress wearable.  This time I cut the size 14 and the dress fits perfectly.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?

Yes and yes.  This is an amazing dress and that's part of the reason this pattern has been reviewed so many times.

Needles Up, 
Always Audrey

Bringing Just a little more organization into my Studio.  Did I mention how much I love having a dedicated sewing space?  I purchased this sewing table (hobby table) from Joann's on Black Friday 2014 for approximately $75.  That's my sewing kit (pink and black) opened in it's place of honor and my new magnetic pin cushion.  LOVE the pin cushion!  Along with my newest addition - the thread organizer from Joann's (on sale) for $7.99.

Sewing Table

New Thread Organizer

Needles Up,
Always Audrey

The Off Grain Skirt

Although, I've heard people say that the fabric is "off grain," and in hindsight I have worked with "off grain" fabric.  I have honestly never really given it any thought.  Enter "The Off Grain Skirt".  I will look more closely at my fabric before I start cutting.

Pattern Vogue 8541 - Elastic Waist Skirt and pretty blue printed fabric that is horribly off grain.

Not much to write about this project.  I used my TNT Skirt pattern.  I have a few yards left (to make a jacket) although, I have learned the hard that that I need to cut this flat - and NOT on the fold.

Needles Up,
Always Audrey

Completed UFO: Jumpsuit

**Spoiler Alert: Another Pink Project**

This jumpsuit has been waiting almost 2 years for completion.  I've been at a stand still because because the instructions for the zipper used the assumption that I would already know how to insert a zipper.  The finished product isn't perfect - the zipper is a little wonky - but, I made it and I love it!

New Look 6757 - View C Jumpusit

Pattern Description: Out of Print - Misses dress in two lengths and jumpsuit.

Pattern Sizing: 8-18, I made the 18

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?  Yes!

                            

Were the instructions easy to follow? Not really.  The pattern is rated easy, but I had a difficult time working through the instructions for attaching the zipper and the halter top.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?  I love the look of the finished outfit! Win.  Although, I didn't like the instructions - they could have been explained better.

Fabric Used:  2 5/8 yards of Pink Rose Polyester Suiting

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:  In the chest area, I used a 1/2 inch seam allowance (to make sure it would fit), but I used 5/8 inch seam allowance everywhere else.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?  Yes, I would sew it again.  I wouldn't recommend this pattern to a true beginner, but if you have experience and don't need instructions to give you every step of construction and you can locate the pattern (it's out of print), then I would recommend it. I got it during a pattern swap.


Needles Up, 
Always Audrey

TNT Vogue 8541 Pink Brocade

I made this outfit (V8541 Vest & V8541 Skirt) at the end of April and wore it on Mother's Day.

Pattern Description: 
Very Easy Vogue 8541, Out of Print, Misses Jacket, Skirt and Pants. 

1) Unlined Jacket (in two lengths) has front and back darts, stand up collar, sleeves with darts, topstitching and snap closure. **I didn't have enough fabric to make the whole jacket, so I used the pattern to make a lined vest instead.**

2) Pull-on skirt C has back slit and elastic casing, length is mid-knee. I only made the skirt.

Pattern Sizing:
16-24. I made the 18 Vest and the 16 Skirt.  

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?
Vest - It fits like the jacket that I made, but it doesn't have a collar or sleeves. Skirt - Fits perfectly

Were the instructions easy to follow?
Vest - I didn't end up using the instructions, but the instructions are fairly easy with the exception of the jacket collar.  Skirt - Yes, the instructions are very easy to follow.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?
I made it, I love it! 

Fabric Used:
Pink Brocade 1 1/2 yards - Purchased in NYC during PR Weekend 2012.  Pink Polyester Lining 1 1/2 yards.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:
After, I made the skirt, I only had about 1/2 yard of fabric left, so I decided to make a vest. Vest - I omitted sleeves and collar because I didn't have enough fabric.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?

Of course, I'll use this pattern again and, if you can find it yes, I recommend it to others.

Needles Up, 
Always Audrey

PR Beginner Contest - Completed Outfit

Here's my completed outfit for Pattern Review's Beginner Contest.  Of course, today is the last day to submit and I have just completed my 2 projects (that needed to be hemmed since Thursday) *don't judge me.*

Here's the Contest Entry and Review (V8815 Top & Circle Skirt):

How long have you been sewing? 
I have been sewing about 3 years.


Why did you start sewing?
I was looking for a simple black skirt.  I was so frustrated by what I saw in the stores - either it fit my waist or my hips, but sadly not both - that I said I know I could make something that actually fits.  A few months later, I bought a sewing machine and started sewing.  (I learned the basics when I was a teenager.)

Why do you consider yourself a Beginner Sewist?
Although, I have been sewing for a few years, I have mostly been sewing the same things over and over (elastic waist skirt and elastic waist pants).  The zipper that I inserted in the shirt is my very first zipper!  Win.  The FBA that I attempted (although, it was a fail) was my very first.  Win.  This was the 2nd time I used bias tape to finish a neckline/arm holes and this is the third time that I lined a skirt.  So, there are still several skills that I have yet to attempt or master.

What item did you sew?
I made Vogue 8815 Peplum Top (my first shirt) and a Circle Skirt (my first - no pattern used).

What new concept did you include? 

I used the following new concepts: 1) New Pattern - Vogue 8815; 2) Made a shirt (my first); 3) Inserted an invisible zipper (my first zipper and an invisible one at that); 4) Attempted a Full Bust Adjustment (a fail that I worked around); and, 5) Designed a double sided skirt (another fail that ended up working out). 

Did this contest help you to conquer any sewing fears?
Yes, I have been sew afraid of zippers and FBAs, so I haven't attempted to make any shirts.  I'm glad that I tried - although, I didn't get the exact look that I wanted it isn't worse than some shirts that I have bought.  Win!


Pattern Review Vogue 8815:
Pattern Description: Fitted top has raised waist/hemline variations and narrow hem. A and B: back zipper. C: pullover, wrong side shows (back hemline), back neck slit with hook/eye closing. B and C: stitched hems on sleeves. Purchase bias tape to finish necklines and armholes A.

Pattern Sizing: Size 16 with modifications

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? YES!

Were the instructions easy to follow? YES!

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I love peplum tops.  And, I really love the fact that I make shirts!  Win.

Fabric Used: Black Cotton broadcloth - approximately 1 yard

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: I made a size 16, with an attempted full bust adjustment.  The FBA was a total fail and the shirt didn't fit.  Since, I was making the shirt as part of my Beginner Contest entry I knew I needed to find a way to "make it work."  I ended up adding a panel on the sides about 2 inches wide to accommodate my chest - and, now it fits.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? Yes, I will sew it again and yes, I would recommend this pattern to others.

Conclusion:  I am sew excited to have completed my first shirt and now, I'm looking forward to making others.


Pattern Review Circle Skirt:
Pattern Description: No pattern used - Circle Skirt

Pattern Sizing: Made from my waist and hip measurements

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Yes, it looks like a circle skirt.

Were the instructions easy to follow? Yes and no.  I was trying to follow the instructions that I found on the internet, but I got a little confused.  The skirt turned out perfect.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I love peplum tops.  And, I really love the fact that I make shirts!  Win.

Fabric Used: Zebra Cotton Broadcloth - approximately 1 yard; Black Cotton broadcloth - approximately 1 yard; approximately 2 yards of Black Polyester Lining

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: I was trying to make a skirt that was zebra print on top and black on the bottom, since I didn't have enough fabric.  But, I ended up cutting the zebra fabric wrong, so I made it zebra print in the front and black in the back.  I actually, love the look - it's reversible.  Win.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? Yes, I will sew it again and yes, I would recommend it to others - with the warning that some of the instructions the math can be confusing.  *LOL*

Conclusion:  I am sew excited to have completed my first circle skirt, I'm looking forward to making others.


Needles Up,
Always Audrey

PR Beginner Contest - Update

**Update on my progress for the PR Beginner Contest**

 Part of the Beginner Contest - includes expanding your abilities and I am challenging myself in the following ways:

1. I am making a shirt - my first one. ** I need to finish the neck, arm holes and hem to complete this project.**
2. I am using a New Pattern - Vogue 8815.  I purchased this pattern a few years ago and although I have read the instructions countless times, I have never cut the pattern or attempted to make this peplum top.
3. The pattern calls for a zipper.  Yet, another first - the last pattern I made called for a zipper, but I added an elastic casing instead. **I installed an InVISIBLE ZIPPER!  I watched this video for help and clarity: YouTube - Installing an Invisible Zipper - Toni Barsi.**
4. I will need to make a Full Bust Adjustment.  **Although, now I have a better understanding - my FBA was mostly a fail.  The shirt did fit my dress form "Mostly Me" perfectly.  But, the shirt didn't fit me at all. I really need to make the dress form match my body shape.  So, before I closed the sides of the shirt I added some extra fabric (design feature - haha!).  And, now the shirt fits.**

I am very proud of myself.  Normally, if I reach a part of the project where I haven't exactly done it right or it does not fit - I move on to something else.  But, I don't want to end up with a closet full of UFOs - so, I am working through all issues to get this shirt to work.

Needles Up,
Always Audrey

PR Beginner Contest

I entered the Beginner Challenge on Pattern Review.  Although, I have been sewing since 2011 - I only sew from 1 pattern TNT Vogue 8541 (coordinates - skirt, pants & jacket).  I also make a simple pencil skirt (without a pattern).

Part of the Beginner Contest - includes expanding your abilities and I am challenging myself in the following ways:

1. I am making a shirt - my first one.
2. I am using a New Pattern - Vogue 8815.  I purchased this pattern a few years ago and although I have read the instructions countless times, I have never cut the pattern or attempted to make this peplum top.
3. The pattern calls for a zipper.  Yet, another first - the last pattern I made called for a zipper, but I added an elastic casing instead.
4. I will need to make a Full Bust Adjustment.

I am very excited to see how this project ends up.  I am expecting the best!

Needles Up, 
Always Audrey

Banquet Outfit - Vogue 7963

Vogue 7963 - Me & the Pattern

Pattern Description:
Semi-fitted, lined top, below waist has princess seams, collar, double breasted snap closing and elbow or full length sleeves. A-line or slightly flared skirt, mid-knee or full length has waistband and back zipper.

Earlier in the evening

Pattern Sizing:

EE(14-16-18-20)

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?YES, it did!  I made the long sleeved jacket and the full length skirt.

Were the instructions easy to follow?

Yes, the instructions were clear - I didn't have any problems.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?
 The jacket!  The parts of the jacket went together easily (this is only my 2nd jacket) - especially, since this one has a lining. 


Fabric Used:
5 yards of Polyester Crepe backed Satin ($3.99 per yard), about 3 1/2 yards of Polyester Lining ($1.50 per yard), 2 yards of 1/2 inch horsehair braid ($0.50 per yard), about 1/2 yard of No Roll Elastic and 2 black & gold shoe bows pinned to the jacket. 

Everything was purchased at Fine Fabrics in Atlanta.  Total Cost = $26.20

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:
Jacket: Since, I haven't mastered making a Full Bust Adjustment - I just made the biggest size jacket that would fit across my chest.  Initially, I  pinned the jacket tighter (and, it worked for the first part of the evening), but after a few hours - it became more noticeable.

Later in the evening - jacket isn't staying on my shoulders

Skirt: The skirt called for a waistband and a zipper insertion (I have only been making elastic waist skirts) - so, I made a few alterations to the top of the pattern and inserted elastic.  And, yes - the skirt was super comfortable!  Although, the pattern didn't call for it - I added a lining and trimmed the bottom of the skirt with horsehair braid.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?
Yes and yes.  I would definitely sew it again!  This was the most slippery fabric that I have used to date - so, the fabric was a little nerve racking.  But, if I can figure out the fitting issues with the jacket - I would like to make the shorter sleeved jacket and short skirt to wear to church.


Conclusion:


I needed an outfit to wear to the Pastor's Anniversary Banquet.  The lines of the combo make it a classic piece that will still be fashionable for years to come.

Needles Up,

Always Audrey

My first baby blanket!

Here are a few pictures of my 1st completed baby blanket!  I'm so proud!

Pattern Review
Pattern - Lion Brand Yarn Seed Stitch Baby Blanket (#kpl-bafg)
Yarn - Lion Brand Yarn / Pound of Love - Antique White
Knitting Needles - Size 10 (US)

**Note on the pattern - this pattern is for a hooded baby blanket.  I didn't have any yarn needles, and I didn't have any sewing needles that I could use on the yarn - so, I omitted the hood.  This is just the blanket part of the pattern.

The pattern was very straight forward - although, I had to get used to the feel of the seed stitch (k1, p1) which felt very awkward when I first started this blanket.  So, the majority of the first half of the blanket - all I did was learn this stitch.  LOL! 

I made this blanket specifically for a baby shower gift for someone at my job.  The blanket was a big hit.  Although, it didn't cost me much money (approx. $8) - I had to buy size 10 needles, but, at least I was able to buy the yarn half price during a sale.  It did cost me quite a bit of time.  I've been stressing over the whole rain inside my apartment drama - so, this knitting project was a welcome distraction. 

Needles Up,
Always Audrey

The Great Flood(s) of 2013

I haven't been sewing lately and with good reason....
In all the years that I've lived in Atlanta (and, I've been here for 7 years), I've never known it to rain so much!  Needless to say, although it hasn't been flooding in the streets of my neighborhood, my dining room / sewing studio is a different story.

Every time it rains (every few days), I've been moving everything out of the dining room and into the living room.  I know, it seems like I should leave everything in the living room, but there's just not enough space to walk through to the bedroom / bathroom.  Hopefully, the maintenance team can finally fix this leak (for good) and I can get back to sewing. 

In the meantime, I have spent some time knitting - I'll post pictures soon!

Needles Up,
Always Audrey

2 Completed Knitting Projects

In my blog post on Friday, April 19th - She Sews... And, She Knits - I told you that I learned how to knit.  Well, since then, I've completed 2 knitting projects.

Disclaimer: Before you continue reading, I need you to know that I haven't made anything.  Well, I made 2 things, but... Maybe, you should just keep reading....




1st completed knitting project

Here's my 1st completed Knitting Project....

Of course, I made it - I love it!  But, it isn't anything.  It isn't long enough to be a scarf or anything like that.  It's just rows of knit or purl stitch.  This took me approximately 12 hours to complete.  I learned the basics on this piece, but honestly - it wasn't until around the 9th or 10th hour that I really had a feel for the knitting needles and hit a groove with knitting.

This project was started in my knitting class and will be donated to the Marietta Cobb Museum of Art for this year's yarn bomb. 

 



This is my 2nd completed Knitting Project....





Baby Blanket Pattern - Test size

While working on my 1st project, I realized that I really love knitting.  It is SO relaxing!  And, a few minutes / hours - really helps me put my day (but, really my life) in perspective.



This project will be donated to the yarn bomb!

 

I was using a baby blanket pattern to try and figure out if I will be able to make a blanket.  What I learned: on the first half (the top half of the kite), it was the increasing side and my stitches were rather tight.  Tight stitches are easy to manage when you are increasing.  As, I started on the decreasing side, the tight stitches were too tight to knit two together, so I made the stitches a little loose.  If I made all of the stitches the same size, it would look more like a square than a kite.  What I know now: I could make a blanket.  And, I want to try to make one soon!

Sidebar: The topic for this post, could have been - Yes, I like colorful yarn! 

Needles Up,
Always Audrey





I make earrings!

One of the reasons that I haven't had time to sew is that I've been doing the most (typical)!  And, I started making earrings!  Oh, yeah!

Wal-Mart had earring making kits on clearance a few months ago.... So, of course a kit came home with me - and, transformed into 4 beautiful pairs of earrings.  And, in typical Audrey style - I don't have any clear pictures (of the earrings) while I'm wearing them. 

White & Silver Earrings





Silver Earrings - I probably could have taken a better picture







Pink Earrings





And, my most challenging piece - Brown Heart Earrings



Needles Up,
Always Audrey

Mission Statement

Over the course of the last few months, I felt like I was trying to do way too many things all at the same time.  Part of problem was that I was over-committing my time.  The other part, was that I was seriously underestimating the amount of time and motivation that I needed to work on things.  So, I have a lot of projects that I started (or, should I say --> half-finished) since the beginning of the year (including, V8815 top, S1906 dress, 1 crochet & 1 knit project for the yarn bomb). 

That's why I decided to revisit my Mission Statement.  I completed this exercise a few years ago, but I needed to assess where I am now and make sure that all of the things that I'm working on fit in with my ultimate mission / purpose.  I realize that I need to work on managing my commitments, and making sure I finish what I start (didn't I just go through this at the beginning of the year - OMG!), but I found that I am mostly on the right track.

If you want to create your own Mission Statement, visit Franklin Covey - Mission Statement Builder.  This is a great website that will have you answer a series of questions to come up with your personal Mission Statement.  I went through all of the questions one day, then spent a day or two thinking before I completed my answers.

Audrey's Mission Statement 2013

I am at my best when 1) I know what's expected of me; 2) I have an opportunity to be creative; and, 3) I feel comfortable communicating my thoughts. 
I will try to prevent times when 1) I'm not able to communicate my thoughts; 2) my creativity is hampered; and, 3) expectations and goals haven't been clearly communicated.
I will enjoy my work by finding employment where I can solve problems, think critically, think creatively, work through issues, explain problems, and work with others to find solutions.
I will find enjoyment in my personal life through dancing, sewing, knitting, crocheting, planning, organizing, re-organizing, making lists, cooking, baking, listening to music, and reading.
I will find opportunities to use my natural talents and gifts such as public speaking, decision making, problem solving, cheer leading, being persuasive, and being a friend.
I can do anything I set my mind to, therefore, I will start a clothing line, make a movie, write a book, go back to school and get my degree, and volunteer teaching kids and/or adults crafts.
My life's journey is full of smaller battles that continually challenge me to evolve into the person that I have always been destined to be. I sometimes wish that I was the most courageous or the bravest, but I am not.  And yet, I continually learn that I am better than I was before the newest battle started.
I will be a person who is surrounded by friends, family and members of either the community or my local church.  I desire to be known as the epitome of a lady that is kind, generous, decisive and quick witted always speaking with power and conviction. 
My most important future contribution to others will be smiles, laughter, honesty, and compassion.
Although, I don't procrastinate - since, I always start or make an attempt - I will be mindful of the number of things that I start at one time.  I will endeavor to make realistic goals / time lines and not have more than 4 new projects (especially, crafts) going at one time. 
I will strive to incorporate the following attributes into my life:

• Courage & Strength
• Expressing myself clearly
• Believing in myself again

I will constantly renew myself by focusing on the four dimensions of my life:

• Eating balanced, nutritious & delicious meals, working out, dancing, resting
• Praying & mediating; spending time reading (non-fiction & self-help books)
• Staying organized, writing down goals & dreams, using my planner, staying on plan financially, making sure I make time for fun/relaxation and for work/budget
• Spending time with friends, volunteering

Needles Up,
Always Audrey

Inspiration from Chadwicks

I love these separates....
Together, they offer so many options.  That's how I feel about my V8541 collection...




Needles Up,
Always Audrey

She Sews and.... She KNITS!

Me Made Monday - Monday, April 15th -  V8541 Pink Skirt & Black RTW sweater

Katie & yarn covered shopping cart courtesy of Marietta Daily Journal

I want to send a very special "Thank You" to Katie & Susan  for inviting me and teaching me how to knit.

July 6th the Marietta/Cobb Museum of Art (MCMA) will unveil it's "Yarn Bomb." The goal will be to cover portions of the museum in hand (yarn) crafted material.  As part of this initiative, the museum has hosted Knitting & Crocheting Workshops where you could learn the basics - thereby, being able to contribute to the final project! 

And, I learned how to KNIT!

So, I've always wanted (sidebar - why do I start so many sentences with "so." OMG!) to learn how to knit, but with the two needles it just wasn't something that I could pick up by myself.  I signed up for the workshop and attended last night - Thursday, April 18th.  The very gracious Susan, a MCMA volunteer, taught me how to knit in just under 2 hours.  I've learned the following techniques:

Cast On
Knit Stitch
Purl Stitch
Bind Off

I started with a small multi-colored (mostly, pinks & yellows) cotton ball of yarn and once I finish it - I'll be sure to post a picture of my work before I turn it in.  And, of course - in typical Audrey style - I totally forgot to take any pictures last night during the workshop.

The museum will accept knit/crocheted donations until June 1st.  If you have any finished or nearly finished projects that you would like to donate - the more the merrier....  For more information, here's a link to the Yarn Installation Page on the MCMA website.

Needles Up,
Always Audrey

Inspiration from St John

This dress reminds me of Simplicity 1609 - View C.... Now, all I need to do is find the right fabric.

 

Simplicity 1609 - the pink dress, View C

Needles Up,
Always Audrey

Inspiration from St John

I think the one thing I love the most about St John is that the looks are always so classy & classic....

Needles Up,
Always Audrey

Easter Skirt / V8541 for the very last time....

Monday, April 8th - MMM - Purple V8541 Skirt with Black RTW top

Essential Top Sew A Long Update - I haven't finished my shirt.... I wasn't able to spend any time this past weekend sewing like I initially planned.  Hopefully, I'll be able to work on it this weekend to complete the shirt.

V8541 Skirt - Pink & White Plaid Yarn Dyed Rayon Suiting

Of course, I love this pattern - and, it's officially retired now that I've completed this skirt.  I love the fabric - it's super soft against my skin.  Even though, I kept saying that I was going to finish the skirt to wear it to church on Easter Sunday - I didn't finish the hem until that morning.  OMG!  But, it worked out... I didn't take any pictures on Easter, but here a few shots of me wearing it to work.  Thanks, Roxy for snapping my pic!

Needles Up,
Always Audrey

Best TV Show: The Great British Sewing Bee

I heard about the best new TV Show - The Great British Sewing Bee through Cidell's post on the show on her blog Miss Celie's Pants

The absolute best part is that this show is based on home sewers competing to see who is the best.  They use patterns (the first challenge was a McCall's skirt)!  I mean, I love watching Project Runway, but - that's so not who I am or what I'm able to do right now. 

And, I so feel (okay, once I get a little faster) that I could totally be on this show!  On the first episode, there were 3 challenges (I want to tell you, but you might want to see it for your self) - and, I was thinking could have done that (again, once I get a little faster)!

When I saw this last night, I said that I would watch the first few minutes - then, bookmark it to view later.... Until, I started watching.  The next thing I knew the show was over.  I really enjoyed watching this program from BBC.  I almost can't wait for Tuesday when the next episode will air.

 If you want more information - just click on the name of the show.... The Great British Sewing Bee  It's a link to the BBC web page.

Needles Up,
Always Audrey