Hi Friends! Today was my chance to kick off #SewUpcycle22 over on Youtube! I ran through all the rules and guidelines. I then shared my plans for possible refashions, rambled a bit, and got really excited about starting my project!
If you follow me on social media, you have seen lots of refashions from me so this will be another fun one! I hope you stop by my video and share some love.
Here are the rules-
Here are the prizes –
Here is my video –
Let’s recap everything –
You can follow my blog by clicking the Follow button on the right side of my blog.
The Fab Clique Fabric Shoppe just hosted #TFCMatchingMarch, so I wanted to share one more fun project with you. There is no one I would rather be matching with than Momma Mia. I found the openness of this challenge a little difficult since I was able to interpret it in any way I wanted. That was the tough part. Decisions. In fairness, it shouldn’t have been difficult at all because basically any matching was fair game!
The Fabric
I received a 2-yard cut and a 1.5 yard cut of these lovely brushed poly rib knits from The Fab Clique Fabric Shoppe. I loved both colorways, but they weren’t an “exact color” match since the tie die was more blues than the rich purple. I decided I would find a tunic pattern with fabric requirements that would meet the fabric amounts that I had. Two tops from the same pattern absolutely counts as matching, right?? Yes, the answer is yes! As usual, I turned to 5 out of 4 patterns to fill the need. I looked at my favorite pattern, The Annabeth, but I really have like 10 of them already. I finally narrowed my choices down between a ribbed tank dress and the Weekender sweater. Since we have been getting a rain snow mix over the last few days, I decided to go with the sweater.
The Pattern
I printed and cut the patterns in my size as well as Momma Mia’s. I shortened the sleeves of both. Mine were shortened because 5oo4 sleeves are always too long for me and I shortened hers because she had less fabric to work with. No worries, it will all work out ok. I also shortened her bodice pattern by two inches. This was to fit the fabric that I had. Even though she prefers longer than what is considered ”top” length this pattern is still plenty long enough.
Quick Assembly Required
I used my serger to put these tops together quickly. I love that!! I think the serger makes quick order of putting clothing together. Just five pieces in each one since I made a neckband instead of the neck binding. A quick hem on my sewing machine and these tops were finished! Since I have several projects that need finished pretty quickly, I am happy to have a collection of quick patterns available to me!
The Outcome – Matchy Matchy Success!
Momma Mia and I both love our new tops and look forward to wearing them a lot!
If you love great great and fast shipping, visit The Fab Clique Fabric Shoppe.
Fun Fact: I will always have room in my closet for an awesome cardigan.
Welcome to the family, Maggie! You will fit in fine here! You are already so loved. I am always so happy when a new pattern comes out and I don’t remember seeing anything else like it. 🙂
Let’s check out what Maggie has to offer. I made the size 3x and graded to a 4x. While this pattern doesn’t include a full bust option, it does have the option of regular or slim cut. I went with the regular cut for the bodice and had plenty of room. This cardigan can be worn loose or you can close it up with the optional belt. Another option you can add is a hood. I went with the collar, but it is nice when a pattern gives you choices. Maggie comes with giant pockets and a ton of ruffled goodness! PS: I didn’t add the pockets to this one and now I am having #regrets
The Maggie Cardigan features:
PDF pattern and separate tutorial for knit fabrics
XXS – 5XL sizing based on our women’s size chart (see last image)
Short sleeves, elbow, 3/4, or long sleeves
Regular and slim cut options for sleeves and front bodice
Hood or collar necklines
Optional front pockets
Optional tie belt
The Maggie cardigan only requires fabrics with a 15% horizontal stretch which means it is going to work with almost all the knits! Speaking of “all the knits,” I used a scrap box from The Fab Clique Fabric Shoppe to create this look! I have 4 different pieces packed into this glorious cardigan. While this makes it sound like these weren’t large pieces of fabric they actually are. Just keep in mind this pattern has a heck ton of gathering in those ruffles! That is why it looks so awesome. Since the fabric is scrap pieces, they sometimes aren’t on the website anymore. I believe my fabrics were French Terry, Hacci Sweater knit, and brushed poly. Most people might not put them together, but I love mixing prints, colors, patterns, and textures. One of the most rewarding things about making my own clothing is that no one else is going to have anything of the garments.
If you love great fabric be sure to check out The Fab Clique Fabric Shoppe and their mystery scrap packs. It is kinda like a surprise and a challenge in one box! I suggest you give a mystery box a try and then how me what you come up with!
One of my favorite sweatshirt patterns is the Annabeth from 5 out of 4. I have made several and I wear one of them nearly every time I go to walk in the woods. Like so many of my favorite tops, they are worn out, colors faded and now just too big. I decided I deserved a new one. Let’s do this!
I have used French Terry for most of the Annabeths I have made myself or for my mom, but this one is Waffle knit. This is a new fabric for me to sew and I have been curious to try it out. This rich chocolate color is called Farrah. The website also calls it Cappuccino, but I think we should call it delicious. It is such a lovely rich brown color and I love it so much already. This will quickly become a closet staple. I seem to be sewing a lot of browns lately, maybe I am in fashion and don’t even know. I just love all the shades of brown right now.
Let’s talk about sewing this waffle knit. It has enough weight to be a nice fabric, it didn’t curl or fray when I cut, and it went through my serger without issues. It is a poly, rayon, lycra blend with 4 way stretch so it will work for loads of knit garments. #sewhappy I even had enough spools of matching threads that my seams are actually brown. 🙂 If you want to grab some for yourself, here is the link.
Let’s get back to my pattern deets. I will give you all the pattern details next, but I have made the tunic length with long sleeves which I shorted by 1 inch. I added regular cuffs and the neckband. I did the solid bodice instead of the color blocked bodice. I sewed the 3x with the included FBA and graded out to a 4x.
One of my favorite tops is tie dye printed Breckenridge Henley. I made it during the testing and it wasn’t 100% perfect, but totally wearable. I have worn it to death and now it has gotten a little too big so it just looks sloppy. I have been wearing it mostly to the gym these days because it is so comfy, but it is time to make a new one. So let’s do it!
When I ordered this awesome print from Stitchin’ Pretties was really excited. When it arrived, I immediately tossed it in the wash so it would be ready. If you haven’t worked with double brushed poly before, I encourage you to do it. It is super easy to wash and wear, you won’t need to iron it all the time, it feels like cozy pjs plus it comes in a million prints and colors. This is one of the newest releases from Stitchin’ Pretties and I think you should go get some ordered ASAP! Here is your link to get you directly to Nicole. While I am talking about SP have you followed their new Instagram page? #Stitchinprettiestrendyfabrics Go get them a follow and let’s get their account back on top!
I really like this pattern and the faux bucket placket. *Not a single button hole was sewn during the making of this tunic.* Basically I sewed the binding on and then overlapped the right and left sides and pinned those layers together. I dropped the feed dogs on my machine and did a quick zig zag over the button to sew it in place. I decided that the stark white buttons was actually a fun pop of color! (They were also in my stash, upstairs, and I didn’t have to search for them.) #Lazy #Makeitwork #Itdoeswork
Here are the options included with the pattern. I made a size 3x with the included FBA in the tunic length and short sleeves. I actually think I will remove another inch or so from the length. Sometimes I get very nervous about removing length from patterns even though I am shorter than the height it is drafted for. I have some insecurities and I like certain parts of me covered up. I am learning to work with what I currently have and as my body is changing I need to learn how to adjust that.
XS-5X
Meant for knit fabrics
Three lengths: shirt, tunic and dress
V-neck henley collar
3 sleeve styles: short, long with cuff and long with rolled tab
Full bust option
Subtle curved hem
Trimless pattern format
Layers
If you want to give this pattern a try, I invite you to try use my afflink which costs you nothing extra at all. PLUS Use my personal code to save 10% off.
I am so happy with my latest make. This is the Love Notions Fraser Cardigan and it is everything I didn’t know I needed.
The Fraser Cardigan is so awesome! I love a cocoon style cardi that hugs my booty. The fact that it has gigantic pockets is a bonus! I didn’t have a single other cocoon style pattern, in my extensive collection, that had pockets like this or even pockets actually. I love that Love Notions figured out how to make this one and make it awesome. It is fairly quick to sew and fit is on point as usual. I used an bold black and white striped Jersey blend for my cardigan. This fabric was hanging out in my stash for months and it was time to start using it. I was digging in my stash for a lovely black and white print to use when I spotted this one. I knew the black and white would work with so many other garments I had so it was a easy decision. I wear a ton of colorful prints and I wanted a black and white cardigan for layering and this is so perfect. I have already worn it three times. I am also working on a navy and brown floral print Fraser and it is almost finished.
Let’s talk about all the details of the pattern. Per Love Notions standard, this one comes in sizing through 5x with an included FBA.
Meant for knit fabrics
2 views: plain banded & hooded
Hemmed or cuffed sleeves
Pockets
Full bust option
I am wearing the plain banded version here. I sewed the 3x FBA graded to a 4x waist and hip. I added a band to the top of my pockets and turned my print the opposite direction so my stripes would run vertically and pop from the main fabric stripes. Since my fabric had slightly less stretch in this direction, I measured the width of the pocket opening and subtracted one inch to determine the length of my band. I used solid black DBP for my pockets and cuffs. I love that they stand out and break of the busy print. I didn’t want to add in another solid color and I certainly didn’t want white pockets. 🙂
This cardigan only required a 25% fabric stretch so it is perfect for the majority of knits. I mentioned I used Jersey, but French Terry, Cotton Lyrca, Brushed Poly, or even sweater knits would work well with this. I love that it is so versatile.
Since this is a newly released pattern, it is on sale!! The sale will get you $3 off and with code SEQUOIA10 You can save an extra 10% off!! Just type in my code at checkout. Afflink
This is an exciting pattern for several reasons! This is the latest pattern from George & Ginger and the first pattern on their “New School” size chart! Yes!! <Insert Happy Dance> Let’s all take a moment to celebrate that. While some of my measurements were on the previous chart, I needed to do several adjustments to make the clothing fit my entire body. With the new size chart, my entire body is on the chart without adjustments, and the new size range extends beyond me!! We all know G&G is known for making unique and interesting patterns and have their own style so this is awesome for all of us admirers who can now fit their patterns! The new chart aka “New Age” on the website is drafted in an inch by inch style so you can pick exactly the numbers you need and grade between sizes. Don’t worry there is a step-by-step Adjustment Guide to show you how. One more exciting thing, these patterns now come in height options – petite, average, and tall!! I told you this is exciting stuff! So much good stuff!
This is the Vista pattern and this neckline is so cool! The twists wrap together to give your chest some fancy coverage, but also this is a great area to throw in a pop of color! Hello Scrap busting!! The step by step directions will make this easy to do and in no time, you will have this super stylish top in your wardrobe! You can add the Vista to your George & Ginger collection today and show the world how excited you are to celebrate a more inclusive size chart!
Testers literally used all types of fabric for this top with a twist. I saw tops in Rib Knit, Cotton Lycra, Cotton Jersey, Ponte, Stretch Velvet, Stretch Lace and I used Brushed Poly. My fabric is from Sitchin’ Pretties. This print is called Pam and you can check out the link by hitting the name. Pam is currently on sale for $5.50 yard and I love the vivid colors! My red accent is also a leftover from Stitchin’ Pretties.
Ready to shop? I would love if you would click my affiliate link. This link changes nothing for you, but allows me to earn a small commission from the designer to help pay for my time and supplies.
Have you heard about it?? No, Well pop over to my Youtube and check out my video. I am sharing the rules, my plans, and keeping the vlog tour rolling. Tons of vlogs, tons of free pattern ideas, and even prizes! Come check out my video.
Colorblocking makes me so dang happy! I love it because I love playing the mix and match game when it comes to my clothing. I toned it down for this top though and even used a solid…not my style at all!
I sewed the banded hem, short hemmed sleeves, and a regular neckband. I am sewing for spring….we are not close yet, but I am hoping for an easy winter. Here are all the options.
2 Bodice Options: Regular or Full Bust (FBA) Optional Pockets Banded Hem 2 Sleeve Lengths: Short, Long 3 Sleeve Finishes: Hemmed, Cuffed, or Thumbhole Cuffs 4 Neckline Finishes: Neckband, Scuba Hood, Funnel Neck, Ruched Funnel Neck
I sewed up two of basically the exact same top during testing. The first one needed a little extra length for my body, so Momma Mia got one for herself! Twinning is winning right? Hers is a bit oversized for her body as she is a few sizes smaller than I am.
I paired my Valeria top with my favorite pair of Diane Joggers. You can click the link to view my blog post! This is such a perfectly comfy set now! I highly suggest it! Oh btw The Diane Joggers are currently 30% off, but only for a few day.
The Valerie Top is on new release sale and you won’t want to miss out. It won’t be on sale again for a good while. Don’t worry about your other half and kiddos, they have patterns as well. Don’t forget to bundle and sale!
Remember when I mentioned the 30% off Diane Joggers?? What I meant to say was the entire 5 out of 4 site is 30% off!! Yep! HUGE DEALS are happening for their 6th anniversary!
I think you for using my afflink. These links cost nothing extra for you, but give me a small commission on each sale.
I have been looking for some projects that would be perfect for using up some of my large fabric scraps. Today I am using the Lucy pattern from 5oo4 patterns. I picked this pattern because I have an assortment of long semi narrow lengths of fabric which should work well for anything with princes seams. Next photo… the scrap pile! These scraps were left over from this dress hack. I added a solid burgundy 1 yard cut to the pile.
This lovely pattern features princess seams in top, tunic, and 2 dress lengths. I sewed the scoop neck version of the tunic. I didn’t adjust for height which worked out well since I couldn’t locate any comfy pants to wear with and actually match this tunic. I made the 4x FBA graded to the 5x pattern.
All the options included with the Lucy Pattern.
The Women’s Lucy Top and Dress includes:
Women’s sizes XXS – 5XL
Princess seams
Jewel or scoop neck options
Sleeveless, cap sleeve, short sleeve, elbow sleeve, three-quarter length sleeve, or long sleeves.
Top, Tunic, Mini Dress and Knee Dress length options
Optional Lace Up back
This pattern came together super easily. I used my serger for everything but the hemming which is always nice. You can always use a zig zag stitch in your regular machine though. My sewing machine is out of the shop and I am not sure it is completely fixed. Still fighting with it at times. Ugg
SequoiaLynn Sews 