tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20586078062436773402024-03-12T20:13:23.409-07:00butterflies and lemon dropsDr Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17567563665444828942noreply@blogger.comBlogger83125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2058607806243677340.post-27669390077542570972019-08-31T08:55:00.001-07:002019-08-31T08:55:07.054-07:00A couple of Moji's I first made a pair of <a href="https://www.seamwork.com/catalog/moji" target="_blank">Seamwork Moji</a> trousers ages ago when the pattern was first released. They fitted me really well and I always planned to make more but just didn't ever get around to it (like so many things!)<br />
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Finally this summer I made not just one but two pairs!<br />
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I have had this blue cotton in my stash for ages and rediscovered it whilst searching for the perfect Moji fabric.<br />
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I did make a few changes to the pattern:<br />
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I didn't use a drawstring tie and just used elastic for the waist as a) it is more comfortable and b) I don't wear tops tucked in so no one is ever going to see the waist detail anyway!<br />
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This was very difficult (impossible) to photograph but I pushed most of the waist gathering to the back of the trousers leaving the front relatively flat - more room behind and more flattering at the front!</div>
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Again very difficult to photograph but I sewed a line of stitching at both side seams of the waistband for two reasons a) to keep the majority of the gathering at the waist to the back of the trousers and b) it is a useful trick to stop the waist elastic getting twisted.</div>
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I fancied having elastic at the ankles (on the left) but after an Instagram survey I opted for plain old non elasticated (on the right). I think they would have worked well but I would have needed to add an inch or two on to the trouser length to get the look right.</div>
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I am very pleased with the outcome and have been wearing them lots over the summer - super comfie!</div>
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I wanted to make a plain pair too so used this black linen/cotton blend from <a href="https://www.fabricgodmother.co.uk/cotton-linen-mix-black/" target="_blank">Fabric Godmother</a>. It is not a fine fabric but it is still light weight - I think I would describe it as 'rustic' - good for trousers, skirt, a dress, but too much for a top. </div>
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I opted to go for elastic ankles on this pair so I added two inches to the leg length. I am not 100% sure about the look of them! Perhaps I will get used to what is for me a new look the more I wear them.</div>
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I have no idea why I am looking so grumpy in these photos!!</div>
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I hope everyone has had an excellent summer!</div>
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I always wondered what it would be like when my little people became not so little - What would we do? Would it still be fun? Would they even want to do stuff with me? </div>
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It is different and it is a learning process finding out what works for everyone and I don't always get it right but I think on the whole we have had a great few weeks! I would happily carry on for a few weeks more, but it is back to school for them and back to my normal working routine for me.</div>
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Anyway we are looking forward to the next holidays!!</div>
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Thanks for stopping by!</div>
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Su xx</div>
Dr Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17567563665444828942noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2058607806243677340.post-29501095794942846012019-07-13T09:03:00.003-07:002019-07-13T09:03:29.337-07:00Musings on Stress, grief, and a Seamwork Clarke A few weeks ago I spoke to my husbands Aunt, she's a straight talking lady and she said 'well its been a *bleep* couple of years, I'm sorry but there's no other way to say it'. And I can't think of any other way to sum it up. As well as all of the normal stresses of life I've had some pretty bad health issues, and for different reasons two of the children have had a really rough time at school. But all of these things pale into insignificance - just over two years ago we lost my mother in law and earlier this year lost my mum very unexpectedly. They were both great champions of my sewing, they both read my blog and commented on the things I made, frequently asking about what I was making and what would I be making next. My mum had even started sewing again and made some great garments, we buried her in a beautiful maroon pinafore she had lovingly made. I have some amazing friends but at times I still feel terribly alone. Life can be cruel and fragile, and is so very precious, this quote from After Life says it all -<br />
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It is difficult sometimes but I try my hardest to see the beauty in things and to make a mental note of all of the good things that happen, I remind myself daily of how much I have to be grateful for.<br />
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Anyway enough of the serious chat and on to some sewing! Despite neglecting my blog I have still been sewing - you can catch up on what I've been doing on my Instagram account @sewingsu. I haven't managed much in the last few months but am now determined to work on reducing my stash.<br />
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I am a member of <a href="https://www.seamwork.com/" target="_blank">Seamwork</a> and when they released the <a href="https://www.seamwork.com/catalog/clarke" target="_blank">Clarke</a> I knew it was something that I would wear.<br />
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The straps are wide enough to hide bra straps but the neckline isn't too high. It comes up very short which isn't my style at all so I cut the longest length and then added 3 inches to the length as well.</div>
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I used a beautiful light and floaty linen. I think I bought it many years ago at one of the knitting and stitching shows. It really is a lovely fabric, drapes really well, very light but not see through - perfect for the summer (assuming the nice weather continues).</div>
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The pattern instructions were great - you could definitely make it even as a beginner. Construction was fine, although I did mess up the back 'v' so it is a rounded neckline - which actually looks OK.</div>
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Initially I wasn't terribly happy with the outcome. The front was way too low for me, I must have weird shoulders and it seemed like the top was constantly pulling itself down even lower.</div>
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I am attempting to show how low the top is on me without exposing too much!!</div>
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Showing the accidental rounded back (excuse the yukky arms!). I honestly did iron it before taking the photos - but linen is as linen does.</div>
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I was feeling a bit sad that I probably wouldn't ever wear it, when I had the brainwave to just wear it backwards! </div>
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Problem solved!</div>
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No cleavage, even bending over!</div>
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I think the back looks quite good with a deep 'v'.</div>
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I often find that tops like this gape at the arms on me - but no gaping here! Another Yay!!</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-po-AMUQh03A/XSnNJsb0i9I/AAAAAAAAHIQ/eRrXft2RhrI7kWItGRwVWEp1G7mrKtkJACEwYBhgL/s1600/seamwork%2Bclarke8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="842" data-original-width="632" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-po-AMUQh03A/XSnNJsb0i9I/AAAAAAAAHIQ/eRrXft2RhrI7kWItGRwVWEp1G7mrKtkJACEwYBhgL/s320/seamwork%2Bclarke8.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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So all's well that ends well - Perfect!</div>
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I saw this jumpsuit in Fatface recently - I love it but not the £69 price tag. I have some lovely black linen in my stash and I think the <a href="https://peppermintmag.com/sewing-school/jumpsuit/" target="_blank">Peppermint jumpsuit</a> (its a FREE download!) might be the perfect pattern.........</div>
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Thanks for stopping by</div>
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Su xx</div>
Dr Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17567563665444828942noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2058607806243677340.post-65052538496105782542018-01-21T06:35:00.000-08:002018-01-21T06:35:02.203-08:00Lou Box Dress 1Hello from a very rainy south coast!<br />
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I must apologise for the quality of these photos. I really wanted to get this blog post done today but the weather wasn't good for taking photos plus my photographer was not very enthusiastic!<br />
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Sew DIY recently released two new dress patterns. I was really taken by <a href="http://www.sewdiy.com/shop/lou-box-dress-1-pdf-pattern" target="_blank">Lou box dress 1</a><br />
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<span style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="http://www.sewdiy.com/shop/lou-box-dress-1-pdf-pattern" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="750" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GzLeA8Mgm8g/WmSgQ220zDI/AAAAAAAAB3A/pi4SHCKCEfQ74XZyJb-oQ9g4ys8rqoA5gCLcBGAs/s320/LouBoxDress1-Thumbnail.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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It is a basic boxy dress but with a cocoon shape, a high low hem and short sleeves or 3/4 length. You can make it in a woven or a knit fabric, and it has either patch pockets or in seam pockets.</div>
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I used a brushed cotton I bought from <a href="https://shop.missmatatabi.com/" target="_blank">Miss Matatabi</a> at the same time as the cord I used for my last Cleo dungaree dress. I originally bought it to make a <a href="https://www.thevillagehaberdashery.co.uk/fancy-tiger-crafts-fen-dress-and-top" target="_blank">Fen dress</a> but the fabric was thicker than I thought it would be.</div>
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Construction was easy, the instructions were great and everything came together well. It has a faced hem which I am not used to but I like as it gives a good weight to the bottom of the dress. The woven version is a little short - I wouldn't wear it without leggings, so would need to add length for the summer. The knit version is longer as you add a hem band. The only thing I don't like is the sleeve length, they are not really 3/4 length but a weird elbow length - I think it would be easy to add length and correct this problem.</div>
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I am really pleased with the finished dress, it is super cosy for winter and I could easily wear a long sleeved top underneath for colder days.</div>
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I chose in seam pockets rather than patch pockets.</div>
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Trying to show the hem line!</div>
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The photos look better on Instagram - you can check them out here <a href="https://www.instagram.com/sewingsu/" target="_blank">Sewingsu</a></div>
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I hope it is less wet wherever you are!</div>
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Su xx</div>
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Dr Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17567563665444828942noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2058607806243677340.post-50058156678670994172017-12-31T09:10:00.000-08:002017-12-31T09:10:08.204-08:00Last makes of 2017Well it's been a bit of a sparse blogging year for me! I have been busy with life and have not sewn as much as last year and blogged even less of what I have sewn. I have however been sewing slower and enjoying the little details rather than rushing everything through and I have challenged myself with a few of my makes.<br />
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So before we say goodbye to 2017 I thought I had better squeeze in one last blog.<br />
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First up is V9136. My first coat! Wow what a learning curve!<br />
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Even though the pattern says 'very easy' I didn't find it totally straight forward and the end product is not perfect. I did enjoy making it and certainly learnt a lot. One of the issues I had was finishing the seams. I had visions of beautifully bound inside seams and had bought some silky gold bias binding. Certain sections of the seams were so bulky I was unable to bind them or overlock them so I ended up trying to use the zigzag stitch on my sewing machine or hand sewing in places - it does the job but doesn't look pretty. If anyone has any tips they would be gratefully received! </div>
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The coat is supposed to be loose fitting but mine is definitely on the large side, if I were to make it again I would go down a size. With all that said I am still proud of making my first coat and I have been wearing it on non-rainy days - I especially like the large collar it is so cozy! Will I make another coat? - Yes definitely but probably not until next year!</div>
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I took these photos outside Kensington Palace - My mum, sister, daughter and I had a girly day out to see the Diana dress exhibition. They are amazing and well worth a visit.</div>
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The fabric is a wool and acrylic mix, nice and snuggly but not itchy at all.</div>
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As you can see I need to shorten the belt.</div>
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My very last project of 2017 was a Tilly and the Buttons Cleo dungaree dress. The fabric was bought months ago in a Miss Matabi sale (the postage cost was nearly as much as the fabric!) It is a gorgeous needle cord and I fell in love with the forest animal print. I have made two previous Cleo's so the construction was straight forward and I managed to get it made in time for Christmas day at my parents (and have been wearing it nearly constantly since then).</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3ivwnHH-3vI/Wkj8TOf_2mI/AAAAAAAAB0o/VvCwxmDfy3gbOsCJLP6nTFoTMSGOig65ACEwYBhgL/s1600/cleo1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3ivwnHH-3vI/Wkj8TOf_2mI/AAAAAAAAB0o/VvCwxmDfy3gbOsCJLP6nTFoTMSGOig65ACEwYBhgL/s400/cleo1.jpg" width="225" /></a></div>
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The top I am wearing is a Plaintain made with sparkly gold jersey.</div>
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I didn't want the stress of pattern matching on the front so didn't put on any front pockets at all. I can't face making something without pockets so just added back hip pockets - I am pretty pleased with the pattern matching I achieved.</div>
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Anyway 'that's a wrap' as they say!</div>
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Wishing you all a happy and healthy 2018!!</div>
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Thanks for stopping by</div>
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Su</div>
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Dr Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17567563665444828942noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2058607806243677340.post-72573836754524548992017-10-01T03:24:00.000-07:002017-10-01T03:24:09.342-07:00Leisel & Co Gallery tunic<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hi Guys! I can't believe its been so long since I last wrote a blog post. I have been sewing (not as much as I would have liked) but as always life gets in the way.<br />
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My latest make is very Autumn appropriate - the <a href="https://oliverands.com/shop/gallery-tunic-dress-sewing-pattern.html" target="_blank">Leisel & Co Gallery tunic</a> and dress. This was my first time adding a dart to a pattern as well as doing a full bust adjustment, sewing a placket and any type of collar. The instructions were fantastic - in fact I would go as far as to say that they are the best pattern instructions that I have come across. I was expecting the make to be a little tricky, but thanks to the instructions it was a breeze! This is actually my wearable muslin and is a lovely cotton lawn that I have had in my stash almost since the beginning of the stash!<br />
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Not a great photo of the placket and collar but you get the idea. I used a contrast fabric for the inside of the collar.</div>
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I thought I might struggle with the curve of the hem but again thanks to the instructions and tips it was fine.</div>
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I think this will be a versatile layering garment for the autumn and winter, great with jeans/jeggings and boots. </div>
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Dr Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17567563665444828942noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2058607806243677340.post-37755509578355568602017-07-02T13:39:00.001-07:002017-07-02T13:39:33.610-07:00Simple sew cocoon dress<br />
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I've had a stressful few weeks so haven't been sewing much. To get back into things again I thought I would go for something easy. I had the <a href="https://www.simplesewpatterns.com/products/the-cocoon-dress" target="_blank">Simple sew cocoon dress pattern</a> so decided to give it a go. I used a browny/beige linen I bought at the knitting and stitching show last year. I bought it to make trousers with and to be honest I think the thickness of the fabric would work better as trousers - but I still love the dress! I think it will be perfect for cooler summer days and in autumn with leggings/tights.<br />
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I used contrast top stitching on the center front seam.</div>
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Liberty facings and pocket linings</div>
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I am pleased to have found a neck line that is not too high but not too low. I work with animals and I am constantly bending over and stretching so can't have a low neck line - this dress will be perfect for work wear.</div>
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<br />Dr Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17567563665444828942noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2058607806243677340.post-47208694068130315432017-04-23T11:01:00.000-07:002017-04-23T11:01:26.890-07:00My perfect top (x2) and simple sew pleated culottes (x1) We have been busy over the Easter holidays with visitors and day trips. The weather has been amazing, hardly a drop of rain and really quite warm for the time of year. I haven't had has as much time as I would like to sew and much of what little time I had was spent on some disastrous trousers now stuffed in a cupboard (one day when the pain has subsided I may blog about them). After the disastrous pair I was still determined to make trousers and thought something a little looser fitting may be just the thing. I always hated culottes as a child and vowed never to wear them again - however I have been seeing a few lovely pairs on the web/ in shops and thought I would give them another chance! I decided on this pattern (mainly because it had it in my stash as it was free with a magazine):<br />
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They would have been straight forward if I hadn't sewn the pockets on the wrong way up (BOTH sides and TWICE!!!!!!!!), and bought the wrong type of zip - it all took much longer than it should have done but I am so pleased with the result! I used a gorgeous grey linen from my stash.</div>
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They are perhaps the only item of clothing that I own which that I would actually wear a t-shirt tucked in! They are really comfie, although I think I may need some extra room behind (I must find out how to do a full butt adjustment for the next pair).</div>
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I am pleased with my invisible zip - I found it odd that the instructions had you place the top of the zip half way down the waistband, I think it is supposed to be a design feature and actually I rather like it but i'm not sure if other people will look at it and think I just haven't finished them properly.</div>
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I have been on the search for my perfect summer t-shirt that I can wear to work. I need it to be something high enough at the neckline for it not to be indecent when I am leaning forward but not too high as I hate things around by throat area. It needs to be loose enough to move around/lean over etc but I didn't want it to look like a sack! I love the boxy kimono sleeved tops that are around at the moment but wanted to find one that had bust darts to add some shape. Jo of <a href="http://joeveryday19.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank">Three stories high</a> had made some lovely kids t-shirts from an old issue of Ottobre magazine, I asked her which issue it was and decided to buy a back copy of it, when ordering it, on a whim I decided to get the most recent women's issue too - and I am so glad I did!! I love the style of the garments in the magazine generally but when I turned a page to find a kimono sleeved top with bust darts I was delighted.</div>
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I have to say that tracing the pattern is very difficult (worse than Burda!). You have to add seem allowances which I did by sellotaping two pens together for a 1cm seem allowance. Construction was straight forwards, the pattern is very economical fabric wise and I used left over linen from my culottes to make the first top:</div>
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I loved it so much I went straight ahead and made a second with some cotton I purchased at the knitting and stitching show:</div>
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The fabric was more of a quilting weight cotton so I think I will make another in a lighter tana lawn (perhaps a Liberty print I have been saving).</div>
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I have a few busy work weeks ahead plus I need to make some alterations to a nightshirt I made my Dad for Christmas (said night shirt has been languishing on my sewing table and is impatiently giving me a hard stare whenever I am near!). Hopefully I will squeeze some selfish sewing in as well....</div>
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Dr Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17567563665444828942noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2058607806243677340.post-62940219097375545342017-04-10T12:41:00.000-07:002017-04-10T12:41:01.066-07:00Sew me something Kate X 2I have been looking for the perfect simple dress pattern, something understated but with a bit of interest. I spied the <a href="http://www.sewmesomething.co.uk/catalogue_item.php?catID=11785&prodID=87139" target="_blank">Sew me something Kate dress</a> and bought it a while ago. There are several variations that make it suitable for every season. I had dreams of a linen summer version and finally got round to making it out of a lovely purple linen/cotton blend. I chose the version with cute puffed sleeves and a little gather at the front neckline.<br />
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Initially I was really disappointed - it was so large that the bust darts were waist height and I had to take it in by 1.5cm at the side seams and shoulders (stupidly I didn't try it on until after I had set in the sleeves!) With all of the alterations and repeated trying on I managed to stretch out the neckline all in all a disaster - or so I thought.....</div>
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Since making it I have worn it loads!!!! I love the colour, the sleeves and especially the contrast bias binding. It is really comfortable and although I have now decided that gathers at the neckline really don't suit me I still think I will get lots of wear over the summer.</div>
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I decided to give the pattern another chance and made a version without a gather at the neckline. I chose a gorgeous Koi carp patterned linen/cotton blend that I bought ages ago from <a href="https://www.dittofabrics.co.uk/" target="_blank">Ditto fabrics</a>. This fabric needed a very simple pattern so I chose the non- bound sleeve option and used the same fabric as the dress for the neck line binding.</div>
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I love the result!!!!</div>
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Excuse the odd pose - I'm not quite sure what was going on!!!!</div>
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Today as it was a little cooler than at the weekend this is how I wore it:</div>
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Both ways of wearing it are very 'me' and I think this dress will be worn as often as possible!!</div>
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Dr Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17567563665444828942noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2058607806243677340.post-62862935583075688472017-02-25T05:31:00.000-08:002017-02-25T05:31:04.170-08:00Moneta Partaaaaaaaaay!!!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Ok so this is going to be a photo heavy post! Over on Instagram this weekend is the Moneta party - hosted by @rach_wain @sewpositivity and @sewabigail. Basically everyone uses the colette patterns Moneta dress, makes their own with as many additions/changes as they like (so long as the basic dress is still the same) and the best ones win prizes, the hashtag #monetaparty is used so that everyone can see all the entries. I love the pattern but the only one I ever made was unflatering as it was too long in the bodice and the skirt:</div>
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The party sounded fun and I wanted in! I thought I should make a toile first to see if I could get the bodice right. I cut the pattern out as intended, pinned the bodice together and tried it on (ouch!). I decided to lop 1.5" off the bottom of the bodice, I knew that this would make the skirt shorter - but hey! that meant I didn't need to shorten that as well! I used a lovely cotton jersey from Girl Charlee (UK).<br />
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I so loved the toile that it wasn't really a toile and I have worn it loads - the mustard colour brightens any dreary day and looks good with both tights and leggings. (I look a bit bedraggled in the photo as it was raining - plus Mr Sewingsu is not very patient where photo's are concerned - due to copious forced childhood photo posing apparently).</div>
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So for the real deal I ordered <a href="https://www.stoffstil.co.uk/fabrics/jersey/printed-jersey/stretch-jersey-grey-melange-w-animal-1" target="_blank">this</a> gorgeous organic jersey from Stoff and Stil - a Danish company who have just opened a UK web shop.</div>
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I love all things nature inspired and as a vet I especially love animals - so I was really drawn to this fabric.</div>
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I took the little people out to an ancient farm (round houses, mud huts etc) and got some sheep related photos (even though there weren't actual sheep on the fabric it was as near to a wild animal as I was going to get!) :</div>
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The sheep looked suitably impressed.......</div>
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We than made an unexpected stop on the way home for a picnic lunch at the ruins of an old abbey - turns out this was a great place for photos! My 9 year old photographer did her best David Bailey impression and the boys ran through the ruins playing knights/soldiers etc - everyone had a great time (plus it wasn't busy so I didn't feel too self conscious!).</div>
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I have never taken part in an Instagram party before - it was such fun! The build up has been great seeing sneak peeks of everyone's dresses and the finished dresses have been amazing - I have seen some fantastic hacks that I would never have even thought of!!!!</div>
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Anyway half term is more or less over and it's back to work and school on Monday.</div>
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Thanks for stopping by!</div>
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<br />Dr Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17567563665444828942noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2058607806243677340.post-11619954061354399302017-02-12T04:37:00.001-08:002017-02-24T06:20:35.790-08:00Sew me something Julia top The TNTB Zadie dress was next on my sewing list but we had a bit of a sad week and I didn't feel like starting anything that looked like it might be remotely difficult.<br />
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This week Sew me something released their <a href="http://www.sewmesomething.co.uk/catalogue_item.php?catID=11785&prodID=96972" target="_blank">Julia pocket top</a> It looked super comfie and a bit different - so I bought it and decided that it would be this weekends project! </div>
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I chose a lovely pink terry fabric I bought ages and ages ago at one of the <a href="http://www.fabricgodmother.co.uk/" target="_blank">Fabric Godmother</a> open days (there is another one coming up soon if you live on the south coast).</div>
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I love unusual pattern pieces:</div>
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The top came together really quickly and the instructions were great.</div>
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As you can see it is an over sized boxy top, I totally love the interesting pockets I think they are a great feature.</div>
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The photo's don't really do it justice (apologies for the wrinkles - I had actually ironed it - honest!) It is so snuggly and warm - perfect for winter weather. The only thing I am concerned about is the colour - I am very likely to spill something right down the front of it!!!!</div>
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I chose to use contrasting grey thread to topstitch around the neckline and hem with my twin needle.</div>
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The details: Now I know it supposed to be an over sized top but it does come up very large. I used the 1cm seam allowance for the sleeves and then a 1 inch allowance for each side seam. </div>
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I really want to make one in a light jersey with a scoop neck as it would be a great layering piece and really my style - I think I will go down a size or two and will have to make the neckline a bit smaller (I have small slopey shoulders and wide necklines just fall off me!!)</div>
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Anyway that's about it for this weekend. everyone seems to be on half term next week but we have to wait until the week afterwards - I am planning to sew my Moneta and Zadie dresses around occupying the small people during half term - it's going to be busy!!</div>
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Dr Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17567563665444828942noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2058607806243677340.post-18859808664071165272017-02-04T06:37:00.000-08:002017-02-04T06:37:06.761-08:00Tilly and the Buttons Cleo(s)Hi! It's been a loooooooong time since I wrote a blog post! Ages ago when Tilly and the Buttons released their <a href="https://shop.tillyandthebuttons.com/products/cleo" target="_blank">Cleo dungaree pattern</a> I instantly fell in love and snapped up the Aubergine needlecord kit. In the pattern photos on the website Tilly uses a larger size model as well as a smaller sized one, I really like this as it helps me to see how it would look on someone similar to my size, I wish more pattern houses did this. I decided to make it in the longer length as I thought this would be perfect for winter. I was so pleased with the result (I have a bit of wrinkling in the bib bit and I think it may be a little big - but I don't like things to be tight so I am happy with it). I Have had lots of good comments about it when I have been wearing it (which is almost constantly!) I usually wear it with bright tights and brown boots.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6emQ80qa0wU/WJXRDqpWQ6I/AAAAAAAABj8/zW2jicNxBTcdju2SLhXWzjQB-E-BOhqnACEw/s1600/IMG_4326%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6emQ80qa0wU/WJXRDqpWQ6I/AAAAAAAABj8/zW2jicNxBTcdju2SLhXWzjQB-E-BOhqnACEw/s400/IMG_4326%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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There are two versions of the pattern the long one above with the knee split and a shorter version. I knew that I would want to make the shorter version too and this will be great for spring (and winter!). I chose this mustard needlecord I had in my stash which I think was from <a href="http://www.myfabrics.co.uk/" target="_blank">My Fabrics</a>. Now you would think that as I had made it before and given that the previous make was such a success that this one would have been a breeze - this was not to be. It all started off well and I used a lovely contrasting cotton lawn for the insides which I love.<br />
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Then as the dress was nearly finished it all went horribly wrong. I am not sure how I managed it but I must have used a 1cm seam allowance rather than a 1.5cm one on the straps and by the time I had realized the dress was constructed so to correct it there would have been an awful lot of unpicking to do - I decided to leave it. I think it looks OK and only I will know. As if this wasn't bad enough can you imagine my upset when I had completed the entire dress including the hem, put it on for the first time and discovered I had put the front pocket on way too low AAARRRRRRGGGGGG! (to put it mildly!).<br />
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I was determined to unpick it and move it to the correct position however I chicken'ed out at the last minute too worried that it would lead to an awful pocket outline right in the middle of the dress - had it been one of the back pockets or even the pockets lower down on the dress it would have been ok - but I decided I couldn't risk it with the center front pocket. </div>
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The back is lovely too:</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GLW2IV6XJfw/WJXRDBun9pI/AAAAAAAABkI/jVFVytEVXqAB7TqFgATqTyAZvPhh_pj7ACEw/s1600/IMG_4288%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GLW2IV6XJfw/WJXRDBun9pI/AAAAAAAABkI/jVFVytEVXqAB7TqFgATqTyAZvPhh_pj7ACEw/s400/IMG_4288%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="318" /></a></div>
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Despite the stupid mistakes I do still love the dress and will wear it lots, but will always have the knowledge that it is not perfect.<br />
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I am going to try to blog a bit more often and have decided to write down my plans using the free template from <a href="http://www.sewdiy.com/blog/2016/free-diy-printable-2017-sewing-calendar" target="_blank">Sew DIY</a> here are some of my plans for February:</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ftx5EsUrHYY/WJXZKVZRE_I/AAAAAAAABkk/1csvn0r6PpEH069Vf79tT6h6Y8o_MrtiQCLcB/s1600/IMG_20170204_133121187.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ftx5EsUrHYY/WJXZKVZRE_I/AAAAAAAABkk/1csvn0r6PpEH069Vf79tT6h6Y8o_MrtiQCLcB/s320/IMG_20170204_133121187.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
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I am hoping to take part in the Moneta party at the end of February, it is an instagram based concept where everyone makes a <a href="https://www.colettepatterns.com/catalog/moneta" target="_blank">Moneta</a> and post's a photo of their dress in the hope of winning some great prizes. I have completed my (very) wearable toile with adjustments and am just waiting for my fabric to arrive so that I can start on the 'real thing' (I am keeping my fingers crossed that things don't go the way my Cleo's went!). I also want to try and find time to make the new TNB pattern <a href="https://shop.tillyandthebuttons.com/products/zadie" target="_blank">Zadie</a></div>
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I have seen this gorgeous version by <a href="http://cookinandcraftin.blogspot.co.uk/2017/02/testing-testing-tilly-and-buttons-zadie.html" target="_blank">Cookin' and Craftin'</a> that I am going to shamelessly copy!!!!</div>
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Thanks for stopping by and I hope it won't be too long before my next post........</div>
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Su xx</div>
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Dr Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17567563665444828942noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2058607806243677340.post-74660888920155333282016-12-23T04:54:00.001-08:002016-12-23T04:54:25.360-08:00Recreating a RTW girls Christmas dress...... I can't believe its been so long since I last wrote on here - I have been sewing (lots) but have had very little time to take photos or write.<br />
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When looking for Christmas gifts for my 9 year old daughter I stumbled on this dress from next:<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rJwoQtCripQ/WF0afJLewMI/AAAAAAAABiA/3cSaASH69tIZkl7XDBarbEq9aYmy8f18gCLcB/s1600/next%2Bdress%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rJwoQtCripQ/WF0afJLewMI/AAAAAAAABiA/3cSaASH69tIZkl7XDBarbEq9aYmy8f18gCLcB/s320/next%2Bdress%2B2.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>
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It is a velvet skater style dress, my daughter has several skater type dresses in jersey material and loves them so I knew she would love this too.</div>
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BUT - it has a button on the back and she has a button phobia (weird I know!).</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jaV94M0KvOM/WF0afL4oC7I/AAAAAAAABiE/n9UPzcjRx-II_V0UidRSNVZC7u-AJO0twCEw/s1600/next%2Bdress%2B1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jaV94M0KvOM/WF0afL4oC7I/AAAAAAAABiE/n9UPzcjRx-II_V0UidRSNVZC7u-AJO0twCEw/s320/next%2Bdress%2B1.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
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I was pretty sure I could recreate it and found the <a href="http://kitschy-coo.co.uk/products/little-girls-skater-dress-sewing-pattern-18m-2t-3t-4t-5y-6y-7y-8y-pdf" target="_blank">kitschy-coo girls skater dress</a> However this only goes up to age 8. So I bought <a href="http://kitschy-coo.co.uk/collections/womens-patterns/products/the-lady-skater-sewing-pattern-for-teens-and-women-pdf" target="_blank">the lady and teens version</a> Her measurements fitted the smallest size, I printed and traced it thinking that if it were a little big it would last until next year. I shortened the arms by 1 inch. I left the rest of the pattern as it was and fitted as I went along. Unfortunately I didn't anticipate that the velvet was not as stretchy as plain old jersey fabric so it fits perfectly now but probably won't for much longer!</div>
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She totally loves it and I am very pleased with how it has turned out, it will be perfect for Christmas day! Velvet seems to be very difficult to photograph, the best pictures were without the flash but as it was a dull day some of them are a little shaky!</div>
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She loves to dance so a full skirt is a must!!</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EN9eEv6cFCg/WF0aUx6nzMI/AAAAAAAABiI/0DhuAeoCofYRMpdeOl-X-kLeEWAV4DfyQCEw/s1600/014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EN9eEv6cFCg/WF0aUx6nzMI/AAAAAAAABiI/0DhuAeoCofYRMpdeOl-X-kLeEWAV4DfyQCEw/s400/014.JPG" width="266" /></a></div>
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Attempting to capture it in full flow!!</div>
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I hope you all have a wonderful Christmas and wishing you all the best for 2017.</div>
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Thanks for stopping by</div>
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S xx</div>
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Dr Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17567563665444828942noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2058607806243677340.post-67865058035173999902016-11-16T01:29:00.001-08:002016-11-16T01:29:33.226-08:00Feelin' blue.........A trio of blues.........<div>
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First up New Look 6320: Back in the day when I first began to sew I think this was the first proper pattern I used. Its a simple shift dress for tweens I made a gorgeous sleeveless version in blue flowery needlecord with a purple exposed zipper for my daughter. She wore it as a dress, when it no longer fitted as a dress she wore it as a tunic top - eventually we had to give it away to friends daughter. At the end of the summer quite out of the blue (no pun intended) she asked me to make her another - she chose a blue needlecord from <a href="http://www.myfabrics.co.uk/" target="_blank">Myfabrics</a> with a green exposed zipper. It is a really simple and satisfying make. She wears it with leggings and a t-shirt underneath and I think loves it just as much as the first one I made.</div>
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Next up - A fen dress in brushed cotton.</div>
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As soon as the weather started to turn even a little bit cooler I felt the need for something nice and cosy. I bought this snugly brushed cotton from <a href="http://www.fabworks.co.uk/" target="_blank">Fabworks</a>. I have made a summer fen in the spring and this make was just as straight forward - sadly my photos of it are not great.</div>
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I was so pleased to eventually have found some nice mustard tights!</div>
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Number three - Burda 9641 - out of the Fen scraps I decided to make some trousers for my youngest. I chose the 6-14yr sized packet so that I can hopefully use the larger sizes as he grows. I made a size 6 knowing they would be a little big (he is titchy). I really enjoyed making these, they are simple enough but with cute details like the pockets ( I still need to add velcro closures). I chopped off about 4 inches from the length measuring them while he as wearing them, I used a 1" hem and despite my measuring they are too short!! I will have to take them down a little (thank heaven I used a larger hem than I usually would!</div>
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He seems to be very happy with them which makes me happy!</div>
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I have nearly finished my Tilly and the Buttons Cleo dungaree dress and can't wait to share it with you! I am also planning to make a boiled wool coatigan and after that I really need to get on with my Christmas sewing!</div>
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Dr Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17567563665444828942noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2058607806243677340.post-46567399855153050892016-10-30T12:07:00.000-07:002016-10-30T12:07:21.181-07:00Ivy pinafore by Jennifer Lauren Handmade<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I love Autumn it really is my favorite time of year - I love the colours, the misty mornings, starting to wrap up in cosy clothes and longer evenings snuggled on the sofa. I can't believe its been so long since I blogged. If you follow me on Instagram (@sewingsu) you will know I have been busy making a few things but I just haven't had the time to take photos/upload them/and write about them. In an effort to make blogging easier I am going to try to write less - just mention the important things rather than going into too much detail. During this half term holiday we have been busy doing lots of spooky activities but I have had some time to sew........</div>
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As soon as I saw <a href="http://www.jenniferlaurenvintage.com/2016/10/introducing-ivy-pinafore-dress-sewing.html" target="_blank">the ivy pinafore</a> pop up on my instagram feed I just knew this was my sort of pattern and bought it straight away. By the same evening I had the pdf cut and pasted together (FYI - the PDF was so easy to assemble - the way it has been arranged means that there is no cutting required - yes you heard right - NO CUTTING!!!! - Why can't all PDF's be like this?). There are two views a flared pinafore and a straighter one - I went for the straighter view.</div>
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The instructions were good and everything was straight forward. The dress is lined which will be great for winter and looks fab.</div>
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I used a fairly heavy black denim which is red denim on the other side - everyone on Instagram voted for red on the outside but red is a colour I never wear and I didn't want to go to all the trouble of making it and then not like it so I played it safe!</div>
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There is some awesome top stitching which would look great if you did want to use a contrasting thread.</div>
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It has pockets which of course I love!</div>
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I tried to get my photographer to get a close up of the front yoke and buttons and this was the best we could manage!</div>
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I think my photographer was getting artistic - I quite like the wonkyness!</div>
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Hopefully I will get a couple more makes blogged tomorrow as we have an 'insect day'</div>
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Happy Halloween everyone!</div>
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Dr Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17567563665444828942noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2058607806243677340.post-77019420451234140592016-08-29T06:33:00.000-07:002016-08-29T06:33:42.216-07:00The 'All's well that ends well dress' (Cynthia Rowley for Simlicity 2406)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NDgPvW3veu4/V8Q0En0qrJI/AAAAAAAABbs/4W9Rha86cJYwkZDDR9v0y55XRdMuUuMkgCLcB/s1600/Cynthia%2BRowley%2B2406.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NDgPvW3veu4/V8Q0En0qrJI/AAAAAAAABbs/4W9Rha86cJYwkZDDR9v0y55XRdMuUuMkgCLcB/s400/Cynthia%2BRowley%2B2406.jpg" width="277" /></a></div>
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Mr Sewingsu loves a good boot sale and a few weekends ago he came back with a whole stack of uncut patterns. A few were the wrong size, a few I just didn't like, but quite a few were worth keeping hold of and this one in-particular caught my eye.</div>
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I decided I would make one last summer pattern using some lovely viscose I bought from <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/472428581/fabric-blue-leaf-print-viscose?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=viscose%20fabric&ref=sr_gallery_19" target="_blank">an Etsy seller</a>. I decided to embrace the cut out shoulder trend and make view B. I do love the back slit but this is not a look that I could carry off so I intended to put a zipper in. I could see from the finished measurements that there was quite a bit of ease but I thought that as it was supposed to be loose and billowy I would go with the suggested sizing. I made a size 20 at the bust grading out to a 22 at the waist thinking that it would be better to make it too big and then take it in if necessary. Unfortunately I didn't take into account that the process of making the dress made this impossible. You can't try the dress on until the sleeves are inserted which is nearly the last step by which time all the facings are attached and the sleeves fully lined! When I did try it on it was way way to big, I abandoned the zip idea and crossed over the back opening to create a smaller neckline, using two cute buttons to hide my hand stitching. I am actually quite pleased with the result:</div>
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The instructions for inserting the pockets are crazy so I just did it my own way. I had read online that the sleeves were a bit tricky but I just took it slowly and it wasn't as bad as I had expected.</div>
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I rather like how the sleeves turned out.</div>
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After wearing it for a few hours my front hem is much higher than the back - either I needed to have adjusted the back above the belt to the same degree as the front when I put it on or it is my bust and tummy that is using extra fabric - not sure how to stop that??</div>
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Dodgy back/butt shot!!!!</div>
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It has an obi style belt/sash which you can't really see well in the photos but is lovely and I really like this touch.</div>
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All in all I am rather pleased with this dress. I am planing a couple of winter versions (view c) in a dark floral viscose and perhaps another in a black pointe. When making this again I will go down a size or two, and cut the back on the fold.</div>
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Thanks for stopping by!</div>
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Dr Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17567563665444828942noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2058607806243677340.post-20231817632301481802016-08-24T08:13:00.000-07:002016-08-24T08:13:20.747-07:00Seagull dress (Tilly and the buttons Bettine).<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It's no secret that I love the <a href="http://shop.tillyandthebuttons.com/products/bettine" target="_blank">Tilly and the buttons Bettine dress</a> - I made it twice last year but these no longer fit and I wanted to make another for this year. I found this lovely sea bird fabric in the sales and knew it would make a great Bettine dress. </div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3UfYAiMKIE4/V725B5iBYzI/AAAAAAAABbY/cG_cKhwwcIUdcu64QQJAaNQFxnxTf_Q2ACEw/s1600/IMG_4153.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3UfYAiMKIE4/V725B5iBYzI/AAAAAAAABbY/cG_cKhwwcIUdcu64QQJAaNQFxnxTf_Q2ACEw/s400/IMG_4153.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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(forgive the wrinklyness - I took this photo while it was hanging up to dry!)</div>
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I cut the largest size as I remember when making it last year it does come up small and I wanted a nice loose fitting top. I also added 3 inches to the skirt length. </div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">I had some scraps of dark blue very lightweight denim that I used for the contrast pockets which I think work quite well.</span></div>
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I usually wear a little leather belt with it which looks great but I forgot to put it on when we went out to take the photos!</div>
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I had anticipated that there would be lots of cooler rainy days this summer to wear it on but the weather down here has just been amazing so I have only ended up wearing it once! To take these photos and then out for a birthday lunch!</div>
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I hope you are enjoying the summer wherever you are!</div>
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<br />Dr Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17567563665444828942noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2058607806243677340.post-40905993583649581412016-08-07T00:00:00.000-07:002016-08-07T00:00:14.563-07:00McCall's M7093 top in Nani Iro double gauze. I mentioned before that I had seen <a href="https://saturdaynightstitch.com/2016/07/28/mccalls-m7093-chambray/" target="_blank">Hila's wonderful chambray version</a> of M7093 and decided to make my own. I treated myself to 1m of Nani Iro pocho in turquoise. I also ordered some contrast grey double gauze but didn't read the description properly and missed the bit about it being 'open weave' - Oh my goodness it was thin:<br />
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Far too thin to use it for the contrast areas of the top as I had intended. I had spent quite a bit ordering both pieces of double gauze and really didn't want to spend any more on buying more fabric for the top. So I doubled up the grey gauze for the side contrast panels (Thanks to Hila for the suggestion!):</div>
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And used some lovely midnight blue muslin I had in my stash for the back piece.</div>
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It was a simple but interesting make, piecing it all together. I hadn't made sleeve darts before - they are a bit pointy so I am not sure what I have done wrong in their construction.</div>
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I also hadn't worked with double gauze before and did feel like it was a bit of a race against time to get the seams sewn and overlocked before they unraveled! It will be interesting to see how well it stands up to washing!</div>
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We visited a local garden and had great fun spotting the sculptures, climbing in the tree house and walking through bamboo tunnels.</div>
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I LOVE the pockets (obviously). It has a really nice hi-low hem too but I didn't manage to get a good shot of it.</div>
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Back shot on the rope bridge!</div>
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Imitating the giant star gazing hare was a must!</div>
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<a href="http://www.abakhan.co.uk/" target="_blank">Abakhan fabrics</a> have a sale on liberty prints at the moment so I ordered some tana lawn to make another M7093 top and some cord to make the tunic version - I will need to draft some pockets for this and maybe lengthen it a little but I don't think it will be too tricky..........</div>
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Thanks for stopping by!</div>
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Dr Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17567563665444828942noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2058607806243677340.post-18194987300411873312016-08-06T04:47:00.000-07:002016-08-06T04:47:31.593-07:00Ogden cami into a summer dress<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I was going to post about my completed M7093 top today but as it is so sunny here on the south coast today a summer dress post seemed more appropriate.<br />
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There really isn't much to say, I lengthened the <a href="http://shop.truebias.com/product/ogden-cami" target="_blank">True bias Ogden cami</a> to make it into a dress, I had been thinking above knee would be best but made it way longer by accident and actually like the just below knee length best. I made it up in green linen from my stash (and had enough left to make a cami length too). I like it loose but also made a tie so I can make it more shaped if I want to.<br />
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I really love it and am keeping my fingers crossed for lots more summer days to wear it on.<br />
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There is a little gaping at the bust area.</div>
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I like it with the waist tie too.</div>
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It was surprisingly difficult to get a good close up shot when using a camera and timer.</div>
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And one of the back too!</div>
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I hope that wherever you are the sun is shining!</div>
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<br />Dr Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17567563665444828942noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2058607806243677340.post-10002651875494249292016-07-31T11:00:00.001-07:002016-07-31T11:00:42.850-07:00Ogden cami - my new favorite pattern! I know, I know, I am so fickle, it feels like nearly every pattern I make is my new favorite! I really do love <a href="http://shop.truebias.com/product/ogden-cami" target="_blank">this one</a> though, every <a href="http://shop.truebias.com/" target="_blank">True Bias</a> pattern I have made I have really liked. The patterns are drafted well and the instructions are always good. This was a really quick sew and I love the results.<br />
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Initially I had some trouble because the fabric was so thin.<br />
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When I tried stay stitching the neck and arm holes the fabric really puckered up. My sewing machine manual suggested shortening the stitch length, I also changed my needle (I have been on the same pack of needles since I started sewing!!), I whacked the tension right down to 1 - all of this made a tiny bit of difference but it was still puckering. In the end I decided perhaps controversially that I would be causing more harm by stay stitching than I would to just leave it and be careful. I kept the tension and stitch length low and the seams were all pucker-free.</div>
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There isn't really much more to say other than the finish is really nice and I think this will become a wardrobe staple, a couple of these in plain colours and maybe one lengthened to a dress will see me through the summer! The only change I would make is to lengthen it an inch or two.</div>
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The little people, dog and I went for a wander down to the boat yard this morning - I forget sometimes how lucky we are to live so near to the sea. </div>
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We struggled to get a good back shot so this one will have to do!</div>
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Dr Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17567563665444828942noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2058607806243677340.post-41263366417061602032016-07-29T08:45:00.001-07:002016-07-29T08:45:48.798-07:00Holiday musings and future projects....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We have just had a week away in beautiful Dorset even though 6 out of 8 of us were struck down with a vomiting bug (courtesy of my youngest) we still had a great time. The weather was good most days and we had lots of mini adventures including fossil hunting in Charmouth.</div>
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Recently my work life has been really busy which when you run your own business is fantastic but also stressful and it does tend to take over a little. I was really ready for a break. I loved spending some quality time with my family and of course my little people - it taught me how much I have missed spending time with them over the past months - something I need to change. I also enjoyed being able to catch up with some of the blogs I used to follow and it made me realize how much I enjoy the whole sewing community - I am going to try and find time each week do do a little blog reading no matter how busy work is. Although I had future projects in mind it has been a while since I have seen a new pattern (or an old one) that really inspired me. Hila of <a href="https://saturdaynightstitch.com/" target="_blank">Saturday night stitch</a> always amazes me - her garments are so professional and she always looks so 'put together', she is also a teacher and has about a gazillion children (5) - I seriously don't know how she does it. Anyway she made <a href="https://saturdaynightstitch.com/2016/07/28/mccalls-m7093-chambray/" target="_blank">M7093 in chambray</a> and I loved the look of it straight away - I have to say if I hadn't seen Hila's version and only the pattern cover I would have by passed it completely.</div>
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I have long coveted a garment made in double gauze, and especially anything by Nani Iro but is it just soooooo expensive. I decided to treat myself to <a href="http://www.eternalmaker.com/pocho-turquoise-double-gauze-nani-iro-by-naomi-ito-for-kokka-japan-1-4m" target="_blank">this</a> turquoise Nani Iro along with a plain grey for contrast from <a href="http://www.eternalmaker.com/" target="_blank">The Eternal Maker</a> I think (hope) it will make a great top. </div>
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Another pattern that caught my eye was <a href="http://shop.truebias.com/product/ogden-cami" target="_blank">The Ogden Cami by True Bias</a> This is really my type of thing - loose fitting but not too loose and plenty of shoulder/back exposure without exposing too much at the front. There is 20% off with the code<span style="font-family: inherit;"> <span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 23px;">LAUNCHWEEK20 </span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 23px;">until Sunday at midnight (EST) I love the plain black version - very classy!</span></span></div>
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I am going to make this up in a fox print rayon from my stash first and if it goes well I may invest in some plain silk blend - I found a silk/acetate blend that looked great but I don't like wearing synthetic fabrics - anyone had any experience of silk/acetate blends??</div>
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I will leave you with a few holiday snaps!</div>
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This is one of my favorite views in the whole of England - Corfe Castle from the Scott Arms in Kingston.</div>
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Some days it seemed like we were in the Med!</div>
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I have one more week off and I intend to make the most of it - a slow pace of life spending some quality time with my little people and of course Sewing!</div>
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Thanks for stopping by!</div>
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<br />Dr Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17567563665444828942noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2058607806243677340.post-91829886178233064212016-07-17T08:25:00.000-07:002016-07-17T08:25:35.812-07:00Summertime dottie (Simplicity Dottie Angel 8153)Well Hellllloooooooo!<br />
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Long time no see you might say! Did I give up sewing? Was I sick of blogging? Or was I abducted by aliens? Well none of the above actually. I have been sewing, if you follow me on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/sewingsu/" target="_blank">instagram</a> you will know that my machine has not gotten dusty with non use. Am I tired of blogging? - No not at all. The simple truth is that I have been so busy with work, family and everything that goes with them! I have just about found time to sew, even to take photos but every time I turned on the computer I knew that there was a ton of unanswered emails and reports to write that needed to be done before any blogging took place. By the time I had done all of the things I needed to I was too tired to write anything remotely sensible! I haven't even kept up with reading any of the blogs I usually follow. I plan to change this - There are three days of term left and then I have just over two weeks holiday! Yayyyyyyyyyy!! After that I am working for two long days a week but then I will have the rest of the week off - plenty of time to enjoy the holidays with the little people and sneak in lots of sewing and blogging - HURRAH!!<br />
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As you know I LOVE the Simplicity Dottie Angel patterns, however my first Dottie make wasn't really a success as it just didn't suit me. One of the reasons I first started to sew was to find a dress/tunic that was summery (exposure of shoulders required) but that could also be worn with cropped leggings (much safer to go to a windy beach with the little people when wearing leggings). So when Simplicity released Dottie Angel 8153 I struggled to wait until it was released in the UK!<br />
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By the by there is an even newer one just released in the US - I will certainly be snapping this one up as soon as it hits the UK online stores!!</div>
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Anyway back to me! There are several options but I really wanted to make the dress. I thought I had better make a toile first so I made the top version in a very very fine (almost translucent) chambray:</div>
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Apologies for the very crumpled non-ironed photo! I mostly like it - I decided to sew the bib bit down completely at the sides - this was a mistake as it restricted the fullness created by the front pleats (under the bib) and makes the top seem too tight. Also despite this being the long version of the top it is still too short (for my liking). At least I knew what to change for the real version.</div>
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I bought some suitably flowery fabric (light quilting weight) and got going. It was an easy make but with just enough detail to make it an interesting sew - you can't see it on the photo but the bib bit has an almost quilted effect.</div>
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I had fun styling the pictures like the pattern cover.</div>
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I did however feel like I was constantly going to fall off the stool!</div>
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All in all I really like it, the waist ties mean that it is not a billowy sheet like affair and gives it as much or as little shape as you want. I also love being able to accessorize with as much or as little lace edging or contrasting pocket/bib colours as you like. </div>
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I decided I wanted to make a bib-less version in a non-flowery fabric as a simple summer dress. I dug around in my stash and found this lovely lightweight cotton. The pockets with the pattern were not right for this dress so I made massively over sized pockets instead. I love this version too but I am not sure if the fabric is just too lightweight - I haven't had a chance to wear it for a day yet so we will see.</div>
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My hemline has gone a bit funny - hopefully all it needs is a good iron.</div>
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I love both versions and think I will get lots of wear from them.</div>
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In other news the little people are soooooo ready for the holidays and the bad weather we have had for the past few months has meant precious little time spent outside. Hopefully the improvement in weather will last for the holidays (fingers, toes, arms and legs all crossed). The veg in the garden has been rubbish this year - we did manage a few peas:</div>
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Dr Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17567563665444828942noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2058607806243677340.post-49606445152749228812016-04-22T07:00:00.000-07:002016-04-22T07:00:09.196-07:00Flowers and cleaning!I am still learning how to use my camera and have been trying to capture some of the spring loveliness in the garden:<br />
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I really like how this shot turned out!</div>
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I copied this idea from a picture I saw on instagram again I love how it turned out but think I should have used white card rather than one sheet of white paper as the table shows through a little.</div>
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Another thing I have been thinking about is alternatives for harsh cleaning chemicals. I always cough when cleaning out the bath and shower so thought I would try to make my own all purpose cleaner.</div>
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Basically I mixed 1/3 vinegar to 2/3 cooled boiled water, a little lemon juice and a few drops of tea tree essential oil. I have to say it works great everywhere in the house - bathrooms, kitchen etc. It smells nice and fresh and no horrid chemicals - a win win situation!</div>
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Do you make your own cleaning products? I would love to hear your cleaning 'recipes'!</div>
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Dr Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17567563665444828942noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2058607806243677340.post-19142640548411361292016-04-20T07:00:00.000-07:002016-04-20T07:00:16.065-07:00The story of my Fens (Fen dress and top - Fancy Tiger Crafts) I wanted to make a Spring/Autumn dress and first bought <a href="http://megannielsen.com/products/darling-ranges-dress-sewing-pattern" target="_blank">Megan Nielsen's Darling Ranges dress pattern</a> when she last had a sale. However I read some reviews stating that the fit wasn't great for larger ladies. So I bought <a href="http://shop.deer-and-doe.fr/en/sewing-patterns/9-sureau-dress-pattern.html" target="_blank">Deer and Doe's Sureau</a> and was very excited about making it. Sadly when I finally got round to starting it I was above the size range. I had seen a few rather nice <a href="https://www.thevillagehaberdashery.co.uk/sewing-patchwork/sewing-patterns/fancy-tiger-crafts-fen-dress-and-top" target="_blank">Fen dresses from Fancy Tiger Crafts</a> on the blogosphere and as you can make tops with it too I decided to go for it and bought a paper pattern (as you can't buy the PDF in Europe).<br />
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I decided to go for the top first, it has no shaping whatsoever so I was wondering how it would look on me - I rather like how it turned out! I don't like 'v' necks so went for the round neck option and I can't seem to get my head round hemming sharp curves so went for the hi-low hem rather than the shirt option. I used a gorgeous soft cotton lawn with little owls on it that I had in my stash.<br />
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It is a lovely fabric but does crease rather a lot!</div>
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I had some issues with the neckline not wanting to lie flat - I think it is because I hate making bias binding so used pre-made bias tabe which is rather stiff - I am hoping that a few washes will sort it out.</div>
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I really love the hem line.</div>
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Anyway - top done so I went for the dress. I used this really lovely leaf print cotton from <a href="https://www.dittofabrics.co.uk/" target="_blank">Ditto fabrics</a> that I bought with my Christmas vouchers.</div>
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It was an easy pattern to make up - I didn't really follow the instructions, to be honest they looked a little overly complicated so I just followed the stages but did it the way I thought worked best. It took me just over a week doing a little at a time between work and children.</div>
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Excuse the blindingly white legs - first outing this year!</div>
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I made the hi low hem again and love it! Obviously I love the pockets too!!</div>
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I like it with a belt and may make some belt loops to hold a belt in place.</div>
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It is a very loose fitting pattern so if you like a closer fit I would go down a size.</div>
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Love it with a cardi and leggings too (excuse my odd shoulders - I didn't sort the sleeves out under the cardi so they have bunched up and made my shoulders look even bigger than they are in real life)!!</div>
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It has both front and back bodice darts that come up from the waist - I hadn't made a pattern with darts like these before so it was interesting to try something new!</div>
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I have no idea what I am looking at in this photo!!</div>
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There is a 3/4 length sleeve option too and I can see how making it up in different fabrics will create dresses for all the seasons. I can confirm that it is comfortable to wear! I will be making more of these and more tops too (they are perfect for work).</div>
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Dr Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17567563665444828942noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2058607806243677340.post-26661301766155236102016-04-16T07:52:00.000-07:002016-04-16T07:52:02.025-07:00My first Washi (Made by Rae Washi dress)I have been thinking about spring/summer sewing and realizing that many of the garments I made last year no longer fit so I need to be thinking ahead and making some new ones in shapes that flatter me. I have long been aware of the <a href="http://www.made-by-rae.com/washi/" target="_blank">Washi dress</a> as there are so many beautiful versions on the web but I had never had an excuse to buy one - until now!!<br />
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I actually made a muslin of the bodice (which I have never done on any of my previous makes!!) from that I discovered that the 'u' shape on the neckline would be too low cut for me, the rest of the fit was OK (although I perhaps should have made a full bust adjustment - this is something I really must get used to doing!!!!). I used material that I bought for a bargain £6/m from the Sew over it stall at the London knitting and stitching show. The fabric is gorgeous and I wish I had bought the grey colourway too.<br />
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This is a beginner pattern and although I didn't struggle with it I think had I been a beginner I may have found it a little tricky. I didn't learn by my Moneta elastic issue and used an old spool of shirring elastic in my stash, again I think once stretched it didn't return to it's original state and so the dress doesn't pull in as tight as it should at the empire waistline, it looks fine from the front but a bit maternityish from the side.<br />
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The waistline looks so wonky in this photo - it's not in real life</div>
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I think this dress will be lovely without leggings in the summer, but it was just too cold at the beginning of April to go without!</div>
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Plus Julia cardi and scarf - this is how I wore it to a family event.</div>
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Thanks for stopping by!</div>
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Dr Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17567563665444828942noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2058607806243677340.post-57859155868932437342016-04-10T08:01:00.000-07:002016-04-10T08:01:00.680-07:00Another Esme (Lotta Jansdotter's 'Everyday style' book)<br />
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I wouldn't normally blog about this as I have made several already but I just love it so much I had to share it with you!!<br />
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It is another Esme tunic (lengthened to a dress) from <a href="http://jansdotter.com/lotta-jansdotter-everyday-style-blog-tour/" target="_blank">Lotta Jansdotter's 'Everyday Style' book</a> It is made in a wonderful purple stretch denim that I picked up at the first sew bee's meet up at <a href="https://www.dittofabrics.co.uk/" target="_blank">Ditto Fabric's in Brighton (also online)</a> They don't have it in anymore but have lots of other great fabrics! The stretch in the denim makes it soooooooooo comfie and purple + mustard yellow is one of my favorite colour combinations! I am also planning several more makes from this book for summer.<br />
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Not much more to say about it only that I love it and have been wearing at every possible opportunity!<br />
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This is fast becoming a TNT (tried and true) pattern for me, do you have a favorite pattern that you have made again and again?</div>
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Thanks for stopping by!</div>
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Su xx</div>
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Dr Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17567563665444828942noreply@blogger.com7