Love Notions – Compose Robe

At what level do you truly become an adult? In my opinion, it is when you decide you need a bathrobe. I do realize that some people always had a bathrobe, but not me. I am a t-shirt and shorts kinda gal around the house, but now a robe. This is the Compose Robe from Love Notions. When the call came for testers, I jumped on this one. It was a cute style, looked easy to make, and I got a great deal on this big fluffy fleece fabric. I decided to sew up the longer length with a hood since I had plenty of fabric. I was all in with this one. 

Compose Robe Features:

• Meant for knit and woven fabrics
• Two lengths: knee and calf
• Hood and band options
• Full bust option
• Patch pockets
• Bonus Compose Hair Wrap pdf pattern included

Sizes: XS-5X

So first off, I removed two inches from the overall length of the robe and the band pattern pieces. I also did my typical 1.5 inch bicep adjustment even though this pattern has plenty of ease built in. I wanted to maintain the roomy feel the pattern already had. If you aren’t sure about doing a bicep adjustment, I have a video up on my YouTube channel to help you. Click here.

I sewed the 4x with the full bust piece graded to a 5x at the waist. I am so glad when the pattern included the FBA. Honestly, I look for patterns that specifically have this as an option. It saves me from doing it myself and I really get a better fit when I use the pattern pieces.

My first version is made with super plush fleece. It is warm and extra soft. I loved this colorful plaid print as soon as I saw it. I knew I would need a little extra fabric so I could at least match the plaid lines on the front. I didn’t worry about the side seams. Even though this is such a thick fabric, it sewed up pretty easily…itchy nose aside. I used my serger and sewing machine. I didn’t make any adjustments other than slowing down. I could have loosened up the tension for my top stitching on the belt tie part to help smooth it out. I decided to make the hooded version first and used the longer length. Good Decision! This is going to me amazing in January would it is freezing cold and my dogs insist on going outside to play. I really appreciate the hanging look at the center back neckline too. 

This pattern is a prime example of how using different fabrics can be a total game changer. My second robe is an entirely different look, but the pattern is the same. I used the shorter knee length and did the banded finish without the hood. I still did the 2 inch height adjustment, the bicep adjustment and added the pockets. 

This time…Stretch Velvet! Holy Moly! What a huge difference from my super cozy fleece version! I feel fun and flirty in this one. If you have never sewn stretch velvet let me warm you. This fibers fall off the entire time and your work area will look like it is covered in fine glitter. Yep, Super fun times! I cut and assembled this while wearing a mask and suggest you man want to as well. 

Over all this pattern sews together very easily and I 100% recommend you give it a try. You can shop with my afflink below. This costs you nothing extra, but I do make a small commission when you use my link. This helps me buy the fabric I use.🙂

The Compose Robe can be found here.

You can follow my blog by clicking the Follow button on the right side of my blog.

You can follow me on Instagram by clicking here.

You can follow me on Facebook by clicking here.

You can follow me on YouTube by clicking here.

You can follow me on Pinterest by clicking here.

This blog contains affiliate links.

The Fitting Experiment – Hourglass Dress

The Fitting Experiment

Episode 2- The Hourglass Dress

Background: I am hanging out with some new bloggers friends and we are calling our adventure, The Fitting Experiment. Our goal is to test out patterns that are drafted with a large size range to determine if the pattern has a great fit across the board. We are looking at comparing the fit across the size chart, construction techniques and directions, included options, and anything else the bloggers want to chat about. After this episode, we are adding more friends and not all of them are actual bloggers. Some use other platforms of social media and some make videos. We are mixing things up and expanding our game!

The Fitting Experiment is back from quarantine and ready to share our latest project. This is the Hourglass Dress from Made by Runi. Yup, You read that right… DRESS! Psst: I know I am wearing a shirt! I made it into a shirt length because my closet is stuffed to the max with dresses. 🙂 Let’s start with the details of the pattern.

The pattern includes sizes 34-58 (European sizes).
Options included are: slim fit or flared skirt

Hourglass silhouette or solid front and back bodices.

Colorblock shoulder detailing

Two neckline options

Three sleeve lengths

I went with the flared fit, lower neckline, solid bodices and colorblocked short sleeves.

Adjustments: I am just outside of the waist measurement for this pattern, but I straightened out the hourglass shape of the pattern (since I don’t have one) and blended from the bust to the hip and now it fits wonderfully. I also did a full bust adjustment and a bicep adjustment for this pattern. These are both adjustments I make on nearly all patterns I wear. This pattern called for binding the neckline, but I made bands. I am honestly terrible at binding, it looks like rubbish always. So I measured the opening, did the match, banded the neck. 🙂 I hemmed the sleeves and bottom.

New to me- I had to add seam allowances to the pattern. Apparently, this is a normal thing with European patterns…I had no idea. While this did take a little bit of extra time, it allowed me to pick the SA I wanted to use. The pattern pages also needed to be trimmed before assembling. So this pattern required a good bit of prep work before I could get down to sewing. Another thing that was a bit odd to me, the directions for assembling are on the website instead of with the pattern. While all these things are typical for the companies I usually sew, it wasn’t a deal breaker for me to sew. I only wish the size range included more sizes so I wouldn’t have to adjust so many things to get a great fit.

Overall, I am happy with the fit after adjustments and will likely make the colorblocked version as well. This is a comfy top and I am wearing it to work today. I like that this top has a few different options to change up the look of it. This one will get a lot of use this summer!

If you would like to check out this, and other patterns from Runi, here is the link.

My fabric is from The Material Girls.

A special thank you to Made by Runi for sponsoring The Fitting Experiment makers with patterns so that we can share our thoughts with you.

Please check out the other makers:

• Diskordiascurvysewing
• SequoiaLynn Sews (Me)
• Liviality
• Sew Below the Willow Tree
• Bigflynotions
• JongDesign

 

Going Home Sweater for Momma Mia

I haven’t been blogging much or even sewing. I have been mostly just hanging out, geocaching and keeping a low profile. I have made Momma Mia several clothing items though. She has requested some long sleeve shirts for summer as she needs to avoid the sun. No problem, I can do that. Before I even began sewing, I wanted to look at the best fabric for the job. I ordered her a few cotton lycra fabrics and this beautiful CVC Jersey fabric. CVC is an antimicrobial fabric. This means the fabric offers protection against bacteria, mold, mildew, and other yucky microbes. This fabric is a cotton poly blend, but it is cool like cotton. This fabric/color is called Suzanne.

I decided to make Momma a Going Home Sweater from Ellie and Mac. A super quick raglan sleeve pattern. It comes with these options.

Three sleeve options

Cowl or neckband option

Shirt, tunic or dress length options

I made her the tunic length, neckband option, and long sleeves. I used thumb hole cuffs from another pattern to create this top.

If you like this pattern it is available in sizes through 4x plus is it ON SALE 50% off!!

Here is the link.

While you are at it, go check out this fabric and so many other great ones. Stitchin’ Pretties still has their “Buy 2 continuous yards of fabric, get a bonus yard of something else free.” Momma Mia likes this fabric because it is lightweight and not too hot. We have already ordered the other two colors that were in stock.

• You can follow my blog by clicking the Follow button on the right side of my blog.
• You can follow me on Instagram by clicking here.
• You can follow me on Facebook by clicking here.
• You can follow me on YouTube by clicking here.
• You can follow me on Pinterest by clicking here.

As always this blog contains affiliate links, which is a small commission I earn when you make a purchase from my blog links. Thank you for helping to support my sewing.

Love Notions – Summer Basics Maxi Dress

The Summer Basic tank and dress pattern has just released in sizing inclusive through 5x. This pattern includes a tank top and 2 dress length dress options PLUS a shelf bra and a FBA option. I have written several times about my love of quick sewing garments with opportunities for hacking them to create different looks. I can already picture several options for new looks/styles and can’t wait to give them a try. Don’t worry, you will be the first to know.

From start to finish this dress was only took about 2 hours of work. I sewed it up as soon as I returned home from vacation. I quickly wished I would have had a suitcase stuffed full of the Summer Basics! This one would be perfect for site seeing, long hours of car riding, a wedding, and lounging at the hotel.

I decided to make the maxi length in this awesome DBP from Stitchin’ Pretties. I would love to encourage you to go buy it for yourself, but I have been hoarding it for at least a year because I knew I wanted a summer dress from this bright, fun print! This color combo is one of my faves!

I made a 4x FBA graded to a 5x at the belly. I extended the length of the bodice by 1 inch. I cut and assembled the bodice and tested the fit/length before adding the skirt. I was a wee bit worried that my empire waist was going to ride a bit too high, but the weight of the dress pulled it into the perfect place! I actually really LOVE this pattern! I love that it is maxi length, but didn’t take miles of fabric because it isn’t overly full. I can 100% see myself making several as they are easy to make, fun to wear, and uber comfy! Throw on a cardigan and it has you covered for fall and winter!

This pattern is currently on sale for $9.00 (reg. $12.00) and you can pick up the pattern here using my afflink.

 

Camilla – My Dear Friend

Last week, 5 out of 4 hosted a Sew Along on their website/Facebook group/Youtube Channel for the Camilla Top. I usually don’t get super amped up about Sew Alongs because I don’t like to drag a project out for days. However, if I love the project as much as I love Camilla…Game On!

I have made several Camilla tops and you can view them by clicking the link. Camilla is a fairly quick sew especially when you have made it  few times! Give it a try!!

Let’s talk about fabric. I want to start by saying I am 100% in love with the feel of this fabric! Hello cool drapy goodness…I need you in my life! This fabric is Cameron ITY and it is from Stitchin’ Pretties. I love ITY. This one was easy to sew, cool to the touch, and has the best drape EVER! The Camilla top really needs a fabric with amazing drape to make the best of the front cowl neckline.

I just ordered another ITY print from Stitchin’ Pretties. Don’t forget that during this whole Covid Crisis, Stitchin’ Pretties is offering to throw in an extra 1 yard of fabric for each 2 yard cut you order! Psst… for the record, a medium box will hold 12 yards…. that may or may not  be just what I ordered. I should have my fabric in hand by Saturday! Laura is a shipping ninja! #SupportSmallBusiness

The Camilla pattern

OPTIONS INCLUDE:

• Sleeveless, Short, Elbow, 3/4, Long, and Extra Long Sleeves;
• Shirt, Tunic, A-line Dress, and Swing Dress;
• Maternity option;
• Band option for each sleeve length, including thumbhole cuffs;
• Hem Band Option;
• Optional Pockets for Swing Dress; and
• Optional ruched sides of bodice

This time I decided to do a straight 5x to have a little more room through the bust area. Since this is an older 5oo4 pattern, it doesn’t include the FBA which is now included with their patterns. I also graded out to the A-line dress lines, but cut it at a tunic length. This allowed me to have a little more room overall. My sleeves are elbow length.

Are you ready to start shopping now?

Here is the Cameron Fabric.  Don’t forget, order 2 yards, Laura will throw in a bonus yard of her choice!

Here is the Camilla Pattern.

You can follow all of my sewing adventures through the links below!

• You can follow my blog by clicking the Follow button on the right side of my blog.
• You can follow me on Instagram by clicking here.
• You can follow me on Facebook by clicking here.
• You can follow me on YouTube by clicking here.
• You can follow me on Pinterest by clicking here.

This blog contains affiliate links.

Catalina Dress – Phat Quarters

Phat Quarters is working its way into adult patterns and out of the gate they were size inclusive through a 66 inch hip. I love this so much! The most recent pattern is called Catalina! Catalina is a lovely Raglan pattern that comes with various length options and a variety of sleeves and collar heights. I sewed up the dress length with the elbow bishop sleeves and a slouchy collar. I really adore the sleeves and this fabric makes them feel super lux.

The Catalina comes with two bust options – B and D sewing cups. This is like the Full Bust Adjustment included option that several other designers have. The pattern is drafted with a little extra room depending on which sewing cup you choose.  I really love that both options are included as it means I don’t have to do my own full bust adjustment. I did adjust for my larger than life biceps though! The Bishop sleeves have a lot of ease built into them, but I still adjusted so they had the proper amount of fullness. I LOVE them! I mean, I LOVE THEM! I want these sleeves on everything! You can choose Bishop sleeves for the elbow or long sleeve lengths.

I styled my long dress in two ways to show you just how versatile this pattern is. You can wear it as a dress or belted and pulled out for a great tunic! I love when I am able to style garments in different ways to expand their use. I really adore this over jeans with sandals. I am so ready for warmer days to arrive.

Let’s talk about this amazing fabric! Roxy!!!  I feel like only super foxy folks should wear fabric called Roxy, so I have been saving this fabric for something special! This fabric is from Stitchin’ Pretties! Laura is still packing and shipping at warp speed, so keep her busy during the madness that is our world right now! She will continue to do her “Buy 2 yards and I will send you a surprise coordinate”sale, until things settle down!

If you love this pattern you can shop here. 

Please pay attention to the sizes at check out. This link has the higher size range. There is a separate pattern for the lower end, bundles, and kiddo options. 🙂 This way you only buy what you need! Shop soon while the new release sale pricing is in effect! 

Luna Twirl Skirt

If your bank account is looking a little thin after all the holiday shopping, I have a great deal for you! FREE!! Totally FREE! In addition, to the Luna Circle skirt being free it is also a super fast sew! Like start to finish in an hour or so. I made this skirt for the first time a few months ago with the Mambo collection release and then I hacked it as an add on to another pattern I will share very soon with you.

Today, I am sharing my latest Luna, which was a Christmas gift for Momma Mia. Momma Mia likes skirts and loves to wear clothes that don’t look like any of her friends. I can understand that, I feel the exact same way. My biggest nightmare would be showing up somewhere and someone is wearing the same shirt as me…no thanks! She also recently mentioned, she likes showing up wearing a new garment when she sees them. Ok, Momma, hint taken!

The included options:

• 2 lengths – “mini” (mid-thigh) and knee length
• Fabric waistband that can be made with or without elastic.
• Option for exposed elastic waistband
• 3 cutting options – double fold, single fold (give two side seams), single layer (perfect for colorblocking!)
• Finishing options – hem, bias tape, or FOE
• sizes XXS-5X

I chose the knee length hemmed version again and it fits perfectly on the 2 yard cut of fabric. This Liverpool floral print was picked up at Zink’s in Berlin with the intention of the Luna Skirt. I used the fold over waistband and slid an elastic through to help hold it in place. I love how Liverpool fabric has enough structure to create the perfect twirl effect! While taking these photos, the wind kept catching the fabric and creating a lovely look. I am sad my pictures had the weird shadow, lesson learned…Camera is still fairly new and I am still learning so bear with me.

I couldn’t sew Momma Mia this pretty floral skirt without a matching shirt, especially when she has been asking for solid tops. This is the Jessie top and Momma Mia’s favorite. You have seen it many times here so I won’t talk you to death about it. This is the tunic length so she can also wear it was jeans or leggings. I love versatile clothing.  This fabric is double brushed poly from my stash. I am pretty sure it came from Sly Fox Fabrics.

Merry Christmas Momma Mia, I hope you love it!

You can download the Luna pattern here

You can purchase the Jessie top/Dress here.

• You can follow my blog by clicking the Follow button on the right side of my blog.
• You can follow me on Instagram by clicking here.
• You can follow me on Facebook by clicking here.
• You can follow me on YouTube by clicking here.
• You can follow me on Pinterest by clicking here.

 As always this blog contains affiliate links which is a small commission I earn when you make a purchase from my blog links. Thank you for helping to support my sewing.

Camilla Tunic

The Camilla Top and Dress from 5 out of 4 is back on my blog and I am still super in love with it.  Each time I sew this one up, it gets better! This is my third one and I can finally do it without the directions so I am counting that as a win.

I decided on this pattern because I had this stunning fabric from Stitchin’ Pretties! This fabric is an ITY and here is your link.  No joke, I have been drooling over it since it came out and finally ordered it! When it arrived, it was even more beautiful in person! I love ITY fabric because it is nice and smooth and always feels cool. So I sent a picture of my fabric to the Sarcastic Sewist and asked what I should make. She suggested Camilla right away! Lucky for me, I already had it printed and ready to use. This is also when I realized I hadn’t even blogged about my second Camilla. Stay tuned, it is coming.

I chose the ¾ sleeve length tunic. I sewed a 4x at the bust to a 5x. This pattern doesn’t have the included FBA which the newer 5oo4 patterns have. My tunic sewed up fairly quickly because at this point, I kinda know what I am doing. I also just put some small pleats at the cowl neck instead pinning at the marked spots which was a bit fiddly the first time. It may not even been quicker, it just doesn’t mess with my blood pressure. Once you have the cowl neck sorted it is all smooth sailing. A few passes with the serger and all is well.

Here is the list of all the included options with this pattern. 5 out of 4 patterns is sort of amazing because they always give me options, I don’t know I need. I actually wish I has enough of this fabric to make a swing dress. That would have been super pretty.

OPTIONS INCLUDE:

• Sleeveless, Short, Elbow, 3/4, Long, and Extra Long Sleeves;
• Shirt, Tunic, A-line Dress, and Swing Dress;
• Maternity option;
• Band option for each sleeve length, including thumbhole cuffs;
• Hem Band Option;
• Optional Pockets for Swing Dress; and
• Optional ruched sides of bodice.
  I absolutely love my latest shirt and can’t wait to get it out of the laundry basket to wear again!This fabric needs to be worn in summer! I needed it months ago!!

  You can pick up the Camilla pattern using my link here.

  You can also pick up this amazing fabric from Stitchin’ Pretties here.  

   

  There is also a ton of stuff on sale at Stitchin’ Pretties!!!

You can follow all of my sewing adventures through the links below!

• You can follow my blog by clicking the Follow button on the right side of my blog.
• You can follow me on Instagram by clicking here.
• You can follow me on Facebook by clicking here.
• You can follow me on YouTube by clicking here.
• You can follow me on Pinterest by clicking here.

This blog contains affiliate links.

Sleeve Hack Series #1 – Gathered Sleeves

Maggie has gotten a lot of love on my blog, but Melissa, the designer has been off living her best life for awhile. Good news though, she is back and drafting up a storm. I pulled out one of my most used Bella Sunshine Designs patterns for this series. A few months ago, I discovered that I really like tops with interesting sleeve details. I am working on putting together a series of shirt sleeve hacks to run right here, on my blog. Today, I am introducing you to my first one.

Let’s start with a reminder of the Maggie pattern. Maggie comes in a top, tunic, and dress lengths. I typically cut the tunic length as I prefer my shirts a little big longer. It comes with an included Full Bust Adjustment. There are 3 neckline options as well as 3 sleeve lengths! This version is a tunic, adjusted sleeves with a scoop neckline and pairs perfectly with leggings. I sewed a 24 bust graded to a 28 waist. Bella Sunshine Designs includes sizing up to 30.

Here are some of my previous Maggies.

Maggie Changed My Sewing Game

Filling my Spring Closet with Maggie

This fabric is a beautiful new release from Amelia Lane Designs. It is called Dulce and is on new sale as it debuts. It is a double brushed poly and the colors are absolutely beautiful. You can pick the fabric up here. ALD has great quality fabrics and a wide variety of fabric bases. Also, super fast shipping, which is what is very important to me as a customer.

Maggie sews up quickly, but since this is the kick off to my Sleeve Hack Series, we are switching it up a bit. For starters, we are creating a gathered sleeve. Basically, I am going to show you how to use elastic to draw your sleeve up and create a new look. Sometimes, even simple changes make for a big impact.  For this top, I printed the 3/4 sleeve length even though I only planned to do about an elbow length sleeve. The reason I went ahead and printed the extra length is so I didn’t have to redraft any of the arm even though I wanted a longer than short length. I measured about 2.5 inches down from the length of the short sleeve. I knew that adding the elastic would draw the sleeve up a bit and I didn’t want the sleeves to be too short.  As always with Bella Sunshine Designs, I needed a Full Bicep Adjustment. I have talked about them many times on my blog and have a little video here if you aren’t sure how to do them.

Another new thing I am trying for my blog is more videos!! I am by no means a professional, but I think this gives you a better idea of what you should do. I think a lot of the time just seeing what is happening is helpful. I have recently created a Youtube Channel for my sewing stuff so feel free to like and follow it so you don’t miss any uploads.

Here is the embedded video from my YouTube Channel. Please feel free to give me a follow and a share!

 

Easy enough, correct? I love the slightly gathered sleeve and hope you do also!

Do you need to add the Maggie top to your collection? Here are some links for ya!

• Ladies pattern. Sizes 0-30. Click here 
• Bundle includes ladies and women’s pattern. Click here
• Girls pattern. Sizes 6m – 12. Click here.

You can follow all of my sewing adventures through the links below!

• You can follow my blog by clicking the Follow button on the right side of my blog.
• You can follow me on Instagram by clicking here.
• You can follow me on Facebook by clicking here.
• You can follow me on YouTube by clicking here.
• You can follow me on Pinterest by clicking here.

This blog contains Affiliate Links.

Monday Morning Dress

I haven’t tested too many Ellie and Mac patterns lately, even though I do love them. I  am so glad I signed up for this one. I love quick, fun, flirty dresses and this one is all three.

The dress comes with two neckline options. High and Low. I chose to make the lower option. I also love that it features a slightly curved side hemline. I seem to be leaning towards hems that aren’t straight across lately. I think it is just an extra detail that dresses things up a bit. Also there are pockets! I don’t know why in the world that anyone who sews custom, doesn’t add pockets in every single garment they sew.

In true EAM style, this dress sews up quickly and is straight forward. I love that the tank style straps are wide and they cover my bra straps. That is important to me! Sometimes, the simplest details are what matters most! I also love how I can style this as a dress, though it is a little short or I can wear it over slim jeans or even leggings.

I did a FBA on my dress and shorted the length of the skirt by 2 inches for a height adjustment. I would have been more content to wear this without pants if I had left those 2 inches on the overall length of the skirt.

I picked this fabric up at Stitchin’ Pretties recently. Can you believe it was on clearance for only $3.50? I am so glad I ordered 4 yards total because I am going to need to make something else in this fabulous print. I admitted to Laura, owner of Stitchin’ Pretties, that I hadn’t given this print enough love on the website.  I am so thankful I ordered it “just to fill my box!”

OK here we go with the links.

Monday Morning Dress is sizes up to 5x. Currently priced at $3.85

Molly Print Double Brushed Poly from Stitchin’ Pretties. On sale for $3.50

• You can follow my blog by clicking the Follow button on the right side of my blog.
• You can follow me on Instagram by clicking here.
• You can follow me on Facebook by clicking here.
• You can follow me on YouTube by clicking here.
• You can follow me on Pinterest by clicking here.