Challenge 1: Sew ReInvented Audrey

A few months ago - I organized my sewing space. And, much to my own surprise - it's still organized. Currently, I'm using a 3-drawer plastic organizer that holds my fabric (inside the drawers), notions and patterns (on top in fabric covered shoe boxes).

Sew ReInvented Audrey - Organized Fabric, Pattern & Notions

Patterns - all patterns are organized by Pattern company and number (Vogue 1st, all others alphabetical).  I haven't really tried many patterns, so I'm going to try more patterns before I decide to get rid of any that I have.

Fabric - all fabrics are folded up inside the drawers. I use 3x5 index cards and double sided tape to keep an accurate list of what's inside each drawer. The cards list the color and type, amount (yardage), size, and whether or not it's been pre-treated (i.e. Purple Knit 2 yds (60) <P>). I don't put new fabric in the storage container unless I mark it. If I take fabric out, I mark it when I put it back in.

Fabric List from Drawer 2

Fabric List from Drawer 3

Here's my fabric:
Knits: Double - 2 colors, 4 yds (60), Crepe - 1 color, 2 yds (52)
Tweed: 2 colors, 4 yds (60)
Cotton: 3 colors, 8 1/2 yds (45), 1 print, 1 yd (60)
Polyester backed Satin: 3 colors, 4 yds (60)
Suiting: 2 colors, 6 yds (45), 3 yds (60)
Crepe Georgette: 1 color, 3 yds (58)
Brocade: 1 color, 1 1/2 yds (52)
Shirting: 1 color, 2 yds
Vinyl (leather look skirt): 1 color, 1 yd

**I bought practically 20 yds of fabric on Black Friday with the intention of sewing more of my own clothes in 2013.

I'm also posting this on my blog along with pictures.

Needles Up,
ReInvented Audrey


ReInvented Audrey playing with the web cam

One Year Challenge

I'm thinking of joining Good-bye Valentino's One Year Challenge. 

Since, I've been sewing - I have naturally stopped buying RTW.  I'm much more conscious of the quality and the price.  It's hard spending my money on something that I could make (and, I'm a beginner).  OMG!

I think the biggest part of the challenge would be that I would really need to consistently sew.  Right now, I sew when the mood strikes.  But since I won't be able to run to Old Navy to buy a new t-shirt, I'll really need to make a sewing plan that I can stick to and work towards making garments that make sense for my lifestyle.  Right now, I've been making things that are fun.  Things that I want, but haven't been able to find the right fit (like, pants & skirts).  And, I will have to get over my fear of making a FBA --> this is my reality.

I think the best thing about this decision is that it would line up with my financial goals and plans.  Although, I spend money on fabric, patterns and notions.  The number of projects that I'm able to complete doesn't compare with buying the same amount of stuff RTW.

** If you aren't familiar with sewing terms, here's a mini - glossary:
RTW - Ready to Wear
OMG - Oh My Gosh
FBA - Full Bust Adjustment

Needles Up,
Always Audrey