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

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

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

The 2nd Quarter Begins..... Sewing Updates

Today, is Monday, April 1st -- Me Made Monday: I'm wearing V8541 Black Skirt and a RTW top


I haven't done nearly as much as I thought I would at the beginning of the year.  As I'm looking ahead to the next few weeks, I hope that I will be able to get more sewing done.  Needless to say, there's an issue at work and although, it's not my issue --> it is my issue.  So, for the next few weeks, I'll be working Monday - Friday.  That means more time before and after work to get sewing.  And, a chance to get caught up on reading all of my favorite blogs.

The weather made a drastic change last week, so I wasn't able to wear (or, take pictures) of the projects that I have completed.  Hopefully, Atlanta's fickle weather will work with me this week!

Projects in Progress
V8815 Top - Essential Top Sew A Long. I did prepared the pattern, but I still haven't cut the fabric.  I haven't been able to work on this project as I initially planned (issues at work - smh), but I hope to have a completed shirt by the deadline.

Fabric Samples - I need to organize my fabric samples. With the 1 year challenge - I want to be able to plan the different projects that I want to make over the course of the year. So, I don't have a repeat of last year - specifically, all bottoms & no tops. Also, I want to make sure I'm working on projects where the colors work well together (to create a functional wardrobe). OMG!

NL6757 Jumpsuit - I was able to pin up the halter pants on my mom to get an idea of the fit. I may decide to get a different zipper - I was going to use black for me, but I'll try to find a pink zipper that matches the fabric for mommie. I need to read / watch you tube on inserting zippers. 3/31/2013: I really need to finish this so that I can send it to my mom for Mother's Day. Where did the time go?

V8541 Skirt- I want to get this pink skirt (and, hopefully a jacket) finished before the weather changes for good. Once, I make this skirt - I'm retiring this pattern (it starts at size 16, and, now I'm between a 12-14 in bottoms). 3/15: I spent some time with this skirt. Since, it's been a while since it was originally cut (and, re-cut) I ironed the pieces and finished the construction. Now, I just need to finish the hem. I'm planning on wearing it on Easter Sunday (although, I'll wear it before then - haha!), but I may need to buy some shoes (LOL!).  3/31/2013:  I decided to wear a pair of shoes that I have.  And, I finished the hem of the skirt this morning before heading to church.  My plans were to finish it sooner, but, the weather changed last week and I wouldn't have been able to wear it.... So, there went my motivation to get 'er done.

V1250 Dress - I've been able to get this dress fitted to my shape and now I can finally finish it! I've taken out a total of 3 inches from each side and now the dress fits perfectly (well, it's only basted) when I try it on. 3/15/2013 Before I finished this dress, I marked on the pattern pieces the size that should be cut for the waist and below, since I didn't make a FBA. Winning! I'll post a review once I'm able to get some pictures.... OH, yeah!

Brand Spanking New Projects
NL6130 - I want to make the sleeveless peplum top (View C) and the zippered skirt. I have a few different cuts of cotton fabric and now, I just need to decide which colors I want to work with to achieve my desired look. 

V7975 - Jacket using the pink and white fabric. Originally, this is something that I wanted to have completed by now, but my life has gotten in the way.

Projects for Fall / Winter Sewing
Infinity Scarf - I don't have a pattern for this, but I saw a great tutorial.

V1320 (Winter Coat) - I have the pattern, I may have the fabric (I have fabric, but I'm not sure if I want to use it for this jacket) - the biggest thing will be mustering up the courage to do it.

Completed


Color Coding Chart
Black - Project Completed 2nd Quarter 2013
Red - New Project (pattern and/or fabric hasn't been cut)
Purple - Project in Progress that needs more work..... (in example, needs to be hemmed)
Blue - Project in Progress that is very close to completion (wearable) or is completed, but needs to be reviewed.

Needles Up,
Always Audrey

Update: Essential Top Sew-A-Long

Today, is Monday, March 25th -- Me Made Monday: I'm wearing V8541 Black Pants and a Red RTW top

Faye of Faye's Sewing Adventure is hosting a new sew a long.... And, I put my name on the list to make an Essential TOP!

Of course, as soon as I signed up to participate in the sew-a-long.  There's a problem at work and I need to work OT - to help get the issue resolved.  So, I didn't do as much as I hoped this weekend, but I have at least made a start.

1) I have assembled all of the materials that I will need: fabric, zipper, thread, bobbin, and sewing kit
2) I read through all of the instructions (really, I'm a visual person - I have to see it in my mind before I can do it)
3) I cut my pattern pieces.... This took some time.  I debated between cutting a size 18 and a size 20.  Although, either size will likely be too big.  Since, I'm still learning about making an FBA and, I don't want to make a shirt that's too small.  I decided to cut the size 20.  I can make a big shirt smaller, but too small is just too small.

I really should make a muslin before cutting my fashion fabric.  I know I should, but I like to jump all in (I know, famous last words).  So, I'll be cutting into my zebra print fabric for this project.  If it's any consolation - it's 100% cotton and I can get more cotton fabric.

I didn't need to pre-treat the fabric because I've already done that.  I will iron the fabric before I cut out the pieces.

Needles Up,
Always Audrey

Me Made Mondays?

**Me Made Mondays - as suggested by L of "You Sew Girl" simply means that you wear something that you made on Monday.

I have been participating, but I haven't been remembering to take pictures.  So, here's a list of March Mondays.... LOL!

Monday, March 4th - V8541 Black Skirt with black & green RTW Top
Monday, March 11th - V8541 Black Pants with black RTW top with rhinestones
Monday, March 18th - V8786 Color Block Dress with V8541 Purple Jacket

Needles Up,
Always Audrey

Sewing Updates

I have had a very, very busy start to the New Year.  Between, meeting my close deadline at work; going to Grandma B's 80th Birthday Party; visiting my mom in Miami; buying a new (used) car and getting everything all settled; volunteering with the Girl Scouts; and, of course working (I can't leave that out of the equation).  I haven't had an opportunity to get much sewing done....

To transition back into sewing and rev up my mojo - I'm starting with my TNT V8541 skirt. 

Projects in Progress
Fabric Samples - I need to organize my fabric samples.  With the 1 year challenge - I want to be able to plan the different projects that I want to make over the course of the year.  So, I don't have a repeat of last year - specifically, all bottoms & no tops.  Also, I want to make sure I'm working on projects where the colors work well together (to create a functional wardrobe).  OMG!

V8541 Skirt- I want to get this pink skirt (and, hopefully a jacket) finished before the weather changes for good.  Once, I make this skirt - I'm retiring this pattern (it starts at size 16, and, now I'm between a 12-14 in bottoms).  3/15: I spent some time with this skirt.  Since, it's been a while since it was originally cut (and, re-cut) I ironed the pieces and finished the construction.  Now, I just need to finish the hem.  I'm planning on wearing it on Easter Sunday (although, I'll wear it before then - haha!), but I may need to buy some shoes (LOL!). 

V1250 Dress - I've been able to get this dress fitted to my shape and now I can finally finish it! I've taken out a total of 3 inches from each side and now the dress fits perfectly (well, it's only basted) when I try it on.  3/15/2013 Before I finished this dress, I marked on the pattern pieces the size that should be cut for the waist and below, since I didn't make a FBA.  Winning!  I'll post a review once I'm able to get some pictures.... OH, yeah!

NL6757 Jumpsuit - I was able to pin up the halter pants on my mom to get an idea of the fit. I may decide to get a different zipper - I was going to use black for me, but I'll try to find a pink zipper that matches the fabric for mommie. I need to read / watch you tube on inserting zippers.

Brand Spanking New Projects
NL6130 - I want to make the sleeveless peplum top (View C) and the zippered skirt. I have a few different cuts of cotton fabric and now, I just need to decide which colors I want to work with to achieve my desired look. I will be making the shirt in February - depending on my time and progress before the 1st. I will start by making the skirt.

V7975 - Jacket using the pink and white fabric. Originally, this is something that I wanted to have completed by now, but my life has gotten in the way.

Projects for Fall / Winter Sewing
Infinity Scarf - I don't have a pattern for this, but I saw a great tutorial.

V1320 (Winter Coat) - I have the pattern, I may have the fabric (I have fabric, but I'm not sure if I want to use it for this jacket) - the biggest thing will be mustering up the courage to do it.

Completed
Write a review - S1885 - When I finished this dress, I never wrote a review for the pattern. I like writing reviews and having 1 central location where I can see all of the patterns that I have tried. 02/18/2013 Completed Wrote the review, posted it on my blog & PR.
 
Color Coding Chart
Black - Project Completed 1st Quarter 2013
Red - New Project (pattern and/or fabric hasn't been cut)
Purple - Project in Progress that needs more work..... (in example, needs to be hemmed)
Blue - Project in Progress that is very close to completion (wearable) or is completed, but needs to be reviewed.

Needles Up,
Always Audrey

Still haven't sewed, but I do have updates.....

On MLK Day, my Grandma B turned 80!
There was a huge family celebration at her house in South Carolina and I was so happy to join everyone.   I can't believe the entire weekend - the only pictures that I have are of me wearing things that I made (on second thought - I CAN BELIEVE THAT).  You know I need pictures for my blog.

Really, that's my lead in - because it's the 23rd day of January and I still haven't turned on my sewing machine..... OMG!  I had so many great plans that I just haven't had the opportunity to get started on.  I did get a chance yesterday to pre-treat some fabric and on Monday night my mom and I worked through the fitting issues on two of my current projects.....

Although, I have some pending commitments for the next few weekends - I'm also looking to get back to my regular work schedule, so I'm sure I'll have more time going forward to get some sewing done.  So, here are my *New Sewing Plans*...

To Be Completed
Write a review - S1885 - When I finished this dress, I never wrote a review for the pattern.  I like writing reviews and having 1 central location where I can see all of the patterns that I have tried.

Fabric Samples - I need to organize my fabric samples and post on it...
Projects in Progress
V8541 - When I get back sewing - this project is on the top of the list.  I want to get this pink skirt (and, hopefully a jacket) finished before the weather changes for good.

V1250 Dress - I've been able to get this dress fitted to my shape and now I can finally finish it!  I've taken out a total of 3 inches from each side and now the dress fits perfectly (well, it only basted) when I try it on.

NL6757 - I was able to pin up the halter pants on my mom to get an idea of the fit.  I may decide to get a different zipper - I was going to use black for me, but I'll try to find a pink zipper that matches the fabric for mommie.  I need to read / watch you tube on inserting zippers. 

Brand Spanking New Projects
NL6130 - I want to make the sleeveless peplum top (View C) and the zippered skirt.  I have a few different cuts of cotton fabric and now, I just need to decide which colors I want to work with to achieve my desired look.  I will be making the shirt in February - depending on my time and progress before the 1st.  I will start by making the skirt.

V7975 - Jacket using the pink and white fabric.  Originally, this is something that I wanted to have completed by now, but my life has gotten in the way. 

Infinity Scarf - I don't have a pattern for this, but I saw a great tutorial.  Once, I'm able to get to this - I'll be sure to post a review of the tutorial and I'll show some pictures.

Hopefully, now that I've finished year end close at work and I'm back home from visiting with family - I can get to my sewing plans

Needles Up,
Always Audrey

2013 Goals & 2012 Reviewed

2013 Goals (listed in no particular order):

1. Learn how to Make a FBA (Full Bust Adjustment)
2. Purchase a Dress Form
3. Make 18 - 24 Wearable Garments (about 2 per month)
4. Since, my size has changed - find a new TNT (Tried N True) pattern for skirts & pants
5. Make a LBD (Little Black Dress)
6. Learn how to insert a zipper
7. Make a shirt

Highlights of 2012 Completed Garments - Sew ReInvented Audrey

My goal was to make at least 12 wearable garments during 2012.... And, here are my totals:

Total Completed Projects - 12 (well, really 11 - see the biggest success & failure of 2012)
Total Projects-in-Progress - 2 (Vogue 1250 & New Look 6757) *I'll have to post about my V1250 disaster.

Projects by type (only completed projects):
Jacket - 1
Dress - 3
Skirt - 5
Pants - 3

Projects by Pattern Company (all projects attempted):
Vogue - 10
Butterick - 2
Simplicity - 1
New Look - 1
Mimi G's Pencil Skirt Tutorial - 1

Fabric on Hand 12/31/2011 - 7 yards
Fabric Purchased in 2012 - 39.5 yards (**Black Friday purchases not included - that fabric was for 2013)
Fabric Used in 2012 - 28.5 yards
Fabric on Hand 12/31/2012 - 18 yards (okay, can you tell that I work in Accounting - OMG!)

Total Spending (Fabric, Books/Magazines, Notions, Patterns & new Sewing Machine): $493.35 ($41.11 per month)

2012's Biggest Success & Failure - Butterick 5672 (Gray dress in collage at top)
This is my biggest success because it was the first project that I worked on this year.  Of course, in my typical style - hence, it is also my biggest failure - I totally jumped in before I even knew what I was doing.  Needless to say, I started this dress with the wrong fabric, the wrong sewing machine needle, the wrong thread (you mean, there's a difference between cotton & polyester)....With all of that - I did somehow manage to finish the dress.  Oh, yeah - I forgot to mention - it's way, way too short.  That didn't stop me from wearing it 3 times (ha-ha!  I made it, I love it), but it's troubled.

2012's Most Used Pattern Vogue 8541 (Jacket, Skirt & Pants)
Of the 10 times I used a Vogue Pattern in 2012 - 8 of those times it was Vogue 8541 (1 Jacket, 4 Skirts, 3 Pants).  There's no greater feeling than knowing when you pick up a pattern that 1) it will fit and 2) it will go together easily because you've done it so many times before.  I didn't really branch out to try my pattern different ways, mostly I just used different colors or fabrics and I was very satisfied with the outcome each time.

2012's UFO - Butterick 5664 (Pink Dress, no pictures)
There's only 1 project that I consider an UFO for 2012 - Butterick 5664.  It's a See & Sew Pattern for a dress.  I was attempting to make it in a Pink Polyester Crepe.  9 Pattern Pieces (for fashion fabric and lining) - this was my 2nd project of 2012, my 3rd sewing project.  Total Fail.  I did use some of the fabric to make my pink skirt (V8541), and to cover the boxes that hold my notions & patterns in my sewing studio.

2012's Most Complicated Vogue 8541 Jacket & Vogue 8541 Tweed Skirt
Jacket - This was just the most complex project that I worked on this year, but it was a jacket.
Skirt - This was complicated because I didn't  know that I needed to plan first (you need to interface tweed edges so that they don't fray).  I knew I wanted a Tweed skirt.  I could see me wearing a Tweed skirt in my mind.  My real life skirt and the image in my mind match up perfectlu, but, the fabric started fraying even when I only looked at it.

2012's Most Worn Vogue 8541 Pants (Black Polyester Crepe)
I wore these pants into the ground!  To work, to Church, hanging out with friends, running errands, everywhere.  If they were lined pants, I would even wear them now.  As it is, I'll have to wait until it starts to warm up.

2012's Biggest Surprise Purple Scarf
I learned how to crochet and I made a scarf!

2012's Completed Projects

Black Skirt - Polyester Crepe - V8541

  Pink Skirt - Polyester Crepe - V8541

Purple Skirt  - Polyester Crepe -V8541

Black Pants - Polyester Crepe - V8541

Red Pants - Cotton Blend - V8541

Black & Purple Dress - Black & Purple Polyester Crepe - V8786

Mimi G's Pencil Skirt (from her online tutorial) - Print Rayon Challis

Pink Pants - Polyester Suiting - V8541

 Purple Jacket - Polyester Crepe - V8541

Skirt - Black Multi-Colored Tweed - V8541

Purple Scarf - Crocheted - Lion Brand: Learn to Crochet Kit (no picture)

 Multi-Print Dress - Cotton Print - S1885 (finished 12/30 - review hasn't been completed yet - no picture)

 

  Looking forward to making more happy noises in the sewing studio in 2013 and beyond!

Needles Up,
Always Audrey

Look Before You Leap: Tweed Skirt

V8541 - Front - @ Work

V8541 - Side - @ Work

This Tweed fabric is absolutely beautiful (purchased during PR Weekend NYC) and it was a real nightmare when I first started working on this project....
One day, I'll learn to
LOOK
      BEFORE
                  I LEAP! 
See Frayed Nerves & a Tweed Skirt

No Review, just pictures (Thanks, Roz for the pics)....

This is my TNT (Tried N True) Elastic Waist Skirt Pattern from Vogue 8541. This is the fourth time that I used this pattern to make a skirt.

I cut the 16, but with frayed edges - I interfaced way, way after I cut (I know, brilliant!) - it's probably closer to a 12 or 14. The fit is pretty good (before I lost weight - I could barely get it over my hips), with the exception of a little extra in the back - I could probably fix that with two small darts. Right now, I'm just happy that the skirt is finished and, in time for New Years Eve! Oh, yeah!



V8541 - Back - @ Work

I learned so much while making this skirt....

 

* Interfacing: ha-ha! and, I ironed all of the strips of interfacing on right the first time. No, interfacing on the iron plate. Major win!



* Interlining: not sure if I did it all the way right, but it works. And, I'm so glad I added a thick poly tricot for the interlining, since the temp dropped 20 degrees today while I was at work. I wish I could find a very easy Vogue pattern that calls for an interlining - after I follow a thousand steps to do it the long way, I'll get the best way to approach it. I do know that I need to leave about 2 or 3 inches at the bottom loose. For ease in hemming. Live & Learn! (I say that way too often.)



Needles Up,

Always Audrey

Finishing What I Started - Updated

All updates are in italics..... Now, that I finished the jacket - that was the most difficult project on the list - I feel like I'm making progress.   I would like to have the majority of this done before New Years. I want to start the year with a fresh project - My Yellow Dress. Or, a winter jacket.  Or, a Pink & White Jacket - just like I originally planned, way back when... 

* Pink Pants from V8541 - finish the hem on 1 pant leg. (Really, all that's keeping these pants from being done is one pant leg?) Completed 12 / 1 / 12 - I still need to take pictures.... And, I have put them on at least 3 different times to show friends. LOL!  12/26/12 - Here's a picture from a hanger.

* Purple Jacket V8541 - finish the sleeves and the hem. 12/17: Still in progress - I hemmed the sleeves per the pattern directions and they are too long. Ha-ha! Oh, yeah! This is my first jacket / shirt project. On the sleeve hem, I used one of the decorative stitches on my sewing machine (thanks, PR all the chatter about the Brother PE500 giveaway, had me thinking about embroidery). The sleeves are lined up, basted and pined - ready for the next step. 12/19 - WOW! This jacket is taking a lot of time.... I spent 1 1/2 hours this morning. I sewed the sleeves in (okay, so you can see a little bit of the ease stitching, ha-ha!) and it's near perfect. I did the pressing prep work for the hem.... Just the collar and finishing the hem needed. OMG! 12/23/12 Since, I had to work on Saturday - this afternoon was my only chance to get busy finishing this jacket - and, I did just that. IT IS FINISHED. I'm so excited - I hope the weather holds up, so I can show it off, I mean wear it to work tomorrow. See Purple Passion - My First Jacket

 

* Tweed Skirt V8541 - finish the hem on the tweed and the lining. 12/17: Laid out on the cutting board with everything needed to complete this project.  12/24: Back to this project.... I tried it on and I've decided the right length for the hem.  I've found a part of the bottom in the back that needs a strip of interfacing added to it before I can hem the fashion fabric.  Trying to decide if I should use the hem tape...  I've re-organized the list for completion.  12/25: Added interfacing.  No Hem tape.  Finished Hem.... IT IS FINISHED.

V8541 - Tweed - Skirt Front

    

V8541 - Tweed - Skirt Back

* S1885 Dress - After the fiasco with the collar, I never picked this dress back up. I need to re-visit and see what needs to be done to complete it. 12/17: I also placed this project on the cutting table. I looked at it - I also need to finish the hem. I need to rip out the current collar - re-cut it and start fresh. Now, that I've finished the collar on the jacket - I see where I went wrong.  12/24: I ripped out the entire collar.  I will re-cut the pieces and interfacing and start fresh.  I went through the instruction sheet - and, I found the problem (**confusing instructions**).  12/25/12: Decided to use the pieces that I had and an add on piece that was missing.  This is a sweatshirt alternative for the weekends.... The top of this dress is too big anyway - so, I took in about 4 inches in the collar by adding additional gathers in the front, sleeve cap, and back.  I'm still having a hard time with the Simplicity instructions, so I may just do it the Vogue 8541 way - putting the interfacing on top, so that it will lay down. 

* Print Dress from V1250 - make a decision on the hem, and move it from the UFO stack to the closet. 12/17: This project is laying on the cutting table. I will likely finish this one last - I'm not going to be able to wear it for awhile.

* Pink & White Skirt V8541- re-cut missing piece and finish the skirt. 12/17: I took the fabric out and it's on the cutting table. I'll be able to cut the missing piece - one evening this week after work.

* Pink Jumpsuit NL6757 - I'm not going to be able to wear it, but I will be giving it to my mom. I meant to get her to try it on when she was here in November, but it completely slipped my mind. I still need to complete the finishing steps on the halter top, insert the zipper, and finish the hem. I won't be able to finish these things until she visits in January.

 
Needles Up,
Always Audrey

Fabulous Feature - Designer Top Stitching

My new sewing machine - Brother CE8080PRW

And, my very favorite feature (well, at least right now today).... Designer Top Stitching.  This sewing machine comes with 80 built in stitches,

 

I'm not the best photographer, but I tried to get some pictures of the detail on the sleeve of my jacket.  I used one of the decorative stitches to stitch down the hem.  I think I'll use this same stitch to add some additional detailing to this jacket.


V8541 Jacket Update - well, it looks like a jacket (and, that's great).  But, it is way, way too big!  No worries, I'm still gonna rock it (I made it, I love it!).  It would have probably been big on me either way, but with the 10 pounds I've lost (actually, 10.2 pounds confirmed on Thursday, December 20th) - it's looks extra large.  I should have cut a smaller size and made a full bust adjustment....  I just still haven't really learned how to do a FBA, so there's that problem.  Overall, I'm excited about the progress I've made and I'm looking forward to finishing this project.  I previously made a purple skirt from this pattern... I want to be able to wear the skirt and jacket together.  Oh, yeah - I'm winning (**happy dance**).

I'm glad I decided to tackle this project before the others - I'll be glad for some mindless hemming after doing all of this hard work.

Needles Up,
Always Audrey

TNT Pants

I've been slow to post this, but I made another pair of pants using my favorite - okay, (until, I got my new Vogues) my only pants pattern! - V8541. 

I don't have any pictures in these pants, although I've worn them 3 times.  They were finished except for the hem (on one leg) in September and when the weather changed earlier than I expected - I stopped working on them.  Yes, you read right I only needed to finish one pant leg.  I did the entire hem (blind stitch) by hand. 

I didn't post this on Pattern Review because I've posted about this pants pattern before.

Pattern Description:
Very Easy Vogue 8541 – Out of Print – Misses’ Jacket, Skirt and Pants. Pull-on pants D have elastic casing and straight legs. I only made the pants. This is my 3rd time making these pants.

Pattern Sizing:
16-24. I made the 16.  **I've been doing Weight Watchers.  I cut these pants at the end of August, but they are feeling baggier now.  Oh, yeah!  That's a great problem.

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

Were the instructions easy to follow?
Yes.  Although, since this is my 3rd pair - I didn't really use them.
What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?
I made it, I love it!

Fabric Used:
I used a polyester suiting in Antique Rose - it was on clearance for $1.95 per yard at Fabric.com a few months ago.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:
No changes made.
Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?

Super easy to make and you can dress 'em up or dress 'em down.   I especially, appreciate the comfort level during long days at work.  Yes, I will make these again, but I recently ordered some new patterns, so it may be awhile before I come back to this one.  

Needles Up,
Always Audrey
 

Frayed Nerves & a Tweed Skirt

** I'll be the first to admit that I didn't do enough research / preparation and my frayed nerves are my own fault.

During, PR Weekend (NYC, May 2012) - I saw the most beautiful multi-color tweed fabric.  It was only $6.00 per yard.  *GASP*  Although, I didn't buy the fabric when I initially saw it - I fell completely and totally in love....

I went to look at that fabric 3 separate times and on the 3rd trip - I bought said fabric....

I always planned to make a jacket and skirt from the fabric (I purchased 3 yards).  But, I didn't really make a plan.  I didn't try to understand the fabric or what I would need....  And, after working approximately 10 hours on a skirt pattern that I have perfected in less than 4 - I know that my frayed nerves are entirely my fault.

FYI, I'm not finished - I still need to inset the elastic in the waist and finish the hem.  I will tell you that I LOVE this skirt.  It's exactly what I thought it would be when I saw the fabric in the store....

Now, here's all of the things I wish I knew and/or considered before I started working with this TWEED:

• The fabric edges need to stabilized so that it does not fray - I used interfacing around the edges.  And, yes this was my first time successfully using interfacing.  Only a smidgen needed to be cleaned off of the iron plate.

• Although, it looks thick in this picture - the actual fabric is very lightweight - to the point of being nearly see through.  Which means, that I needed to either Line or Underline the skirt
• Needless to say, I had to spend some time learning how to do Line or Underline....

• Fabric, Interfacing, and Underlining makes for a very thick combination.  Especially, trying to sew the side seams and the elastic waistband.
• Still not sure how I need to finish the hem.... I'll figure that out as soon as I can get this elastic in the waistband.

This has been an amazing journey.  So, glad that Faye's Carnival of Skirts got me started on this project.  Although, I would have thought that I would have been done and finished by now!  HA!

Needles Up,
Always Audrey

Getting Organized & Carnival of Skirts

Getting Organized

My problems all started when I looked for one of the Vogue Patterns that I purchased last month - THAT I CANNOT FIND!  OMG!

When I started sewing last December, I had a few basic sewing supplies, a sewing machine, and enough fabric for one project.  I was able to easily store everything in one nightstand drawer. Well, almost a year later - my sewing patterns, fabric and notions - are literally, all over the place. 

I've been getting organized and once I figure it all out - I'll be sure to post pictures. 

Faye's Carnival of Skirts

**I didn't join the Carnival of Skirts**  View the Blog here

Although, I want to complete two skirts...  But, in 15 days.  This would be my absolute fastest sewing ever!  Besides, that - with my work schedule I normally only sew on Saturday, Sunday, and / or Monday.  I felt way too much pressure. 

So, I didn't join Faye's Carnival of Skirts sew-a-long.  But, I'm sewing-a-long.  I have two fabrics picked out.  I have already pre-treated one fabric, and I will pre-treat the second fabric and the lining fabric today.  Unfortunately, I need a few things to finish these skirts - so, I'll place an order from Fabric.com today as well (I should have that by the weekend). 

I plan on using my TNT skirt pattern V8541 for both skirts.  Technically, it's my only skirt pattern - however, I've nearly perfected the making of it - since, I've made it three times (Black, Purple, Pink).  I plan on adding a lining to both skirts (the pattern is unlined). 

Needles Up,
Always Audrey

September Projects

I'm nearly finished with 2 projects that I have started in September.  OMG!  This is super-de-duper fast for me. 

Of course, I made another pair of pants.  I love a the pants from V8541, they are so comfortable for work.  Especially, working a 10-hour schedule - comfort is a must!  This time I used a Pink Polyester blend fabric that I purchased on clearance from fabric.com.  I just need to finish the hem and sew in my label.  That should be completed today.

And, drum roll please.  I made the fabulous V1250 cowl neck dress.  Well, it's not finished.  But, I am believing that it will be totally fabulous.  I ended up using the Green designer polyester jersey knit from fabric.com.  There's not that much work to this dress - now, I see why so many people have made it! 



Hopefully, I'll be able to take pictures in the dress this week and post a review on PR.  I won't post a review on PR for the pants - although, I will do a post with pictures here on the blog.

Needles Up,
Always Audrey

Full Bust Adjustments?

So, I haven't made any tops - yet.
Well, I did make 1 dress, but it wasn't a shirt or a top.  And, the pattern says it was loose fitting.
I've been looking for top patterns - I just haven't found anything that I was dying to make... if you know what I mean.
But, if I haven't made any tops - that means that I haven't made any Full Bust Adjustments......
Que the soap opera drama music - you've got to know where this post is going.

Now, I've been working like 10 hours on making this halter top jumpsuit (NL6757).  I know - I totally missed summer.  This was on my list as a Summer project, but initially I didn't have enough fabric (see One Project Down and Out).  I'm at the point where I need to insert the zipper.  I pinned down the zipper - tried it on.  And, you totally guessed it - I can't get it to zip up over my breasts!

The
Worst
Feeling
Ever.....

You can't even imagine the number of happy dances - I have done up to this point.  I've never made a halter top.  I've never made a jumpsuit.  This IS my most challenging project to date.  And, most importantly - even without the zipper - IT looks like the pattern envelope.  AND, it doesn't fit!  <Insert hissy fit.>

So, I'm moving on to my next project - the jacket from V8541 (hopefully, I'll have more success).  And, I'm putting this jumpsuit to the side for right now.

Hopefully, I'll work on some other projects and figure out a snazzy way that I can make a full bust adjustment at this point in the game.  (P.S. I already tried the sports bra over my bra and that didn't help.)  Otherwise, I'll finish the project and give it to my mom for Christmas.  We are shaped the same - except her breast are a little smaller (like, I'm DDD and she's D) and she's shorter than me.

Here's to making lemonade, when the need for a full bust adjustment has given you a lemon!  LOL!  (At least, I've been making happy noises - and, dances - in the sewing studio.)

Needles Up,
Always Audrey

Another Pair of Pants

I made another pair of pants!  OH, yeah!  They look orange, but actually they are RED! 

Special Thanks goes to Beverly Reece from work for taking my picture today.

 

Pattern Description:
Very Easy Vogue 8541 – Out of Print – Misses’ Jacket, Skirt and Pants. Pull-on pants D have elastic casing and straight legs. I only made the pants. This is my 2nd time making these pants.

Pattern Sizing:
16-24. I made the 16.

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

Were the instructions easy to follow?
The last time I made these pants - I sewed both pant front to pant back the same way... This time - I GOT IT RIGHT!  This was a fast & easy project that I was able to complete in about 5 - 6 hours (I'm slow! LOL! But, I started and finished in one day - and, for me that's FAST).
What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?
I made it, I love it! 

Fabric Used:
I used a red cotton blend textured suiting or something like that - it was on clearance for $1.95 per yard at Fabric.com a few months ago. 

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:No changes made.

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

Super easy to make and you can dress 'em up or dress 'em down.  Yes, I will make it again.   

Conclusion:
I love these pants & I received a lot of compliments! Winning! 

Needles Up,
Always Audrey

Finally, my PINK skirt!

So, I finally had the opportunity to wear my PINK skirt.  And, yes the Pink skirt is just like the Purple and the Black (so, I didn't write a review for Pattern Review).  Not, a lot to say about this skirt - so, here it is....

Yes, more pictures from the bathroom at work....

Needles Up,
Always Audrey

My First Pair of Pants!

Here's the complete review of the Pants I made:

Pattern Description: Very Easy Vogue 8541 – Out of Print – Misses’ Jacket, Skirt and Pants.  Pull-on pants D have elastic casing and straight legs.  I only made the pants.

Pattern Sizing: 16-24. I made the 18, but I could have made the 16.

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

Were the instructions easy to follow? Yes, mostly – I think they could have been a little more clear.  Of course, I sewed both pant front to pant back the same way.  I ended up with a back and front in the back and in the front – LOL!  Luckily, I cut the pants 1 size bigger so, I was able to use the extra fabric to make it work.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I made it, I love it!  Finished it Monday night and wore it to work on Tuesday morning.  Oh, yeah!

Fabric Used: I used a black polyester crepe (about $4.85 per yard from Fabric.com). 

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:  No changes made (only what’s listed above).

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? Yes, I will make it again. 

Conclusion: I love these pants & I received a lot of compliments!  Winning!

Needles Up,
Always Audrey