tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3871787546210013812024-03-13T16:28:27.100+00:00Sewing vs. KnittingFionahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10771459560853275819noreply@blogger.comBlogger76125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-387178754621001381.post-61054789533652936982018-12-21T13:28:00.000+00:002018-12-21T13:28:20.995+00:00ChangesI havn't managed to post anything on my blog for a long while. It's been crazy not least because we're now expecting our second child. I spent most of the summer feeling poorly and the ridiculous heatwave we experienced this summer only made it worse. Time has really slipped away from me and I’m now 30 weeks pregnant- I have no idea where the time has gone! This has meant that I haven’t really felt like sewing at all. The only additions to my summr wardrobe are a pair of self drafted shorts and two Tilly and the Button’s Frankie t-shirts, which I have yet to blog about.<br />
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I don’t have extensive sewing plans for maternity clothes as I still have the RTW ones I wore for my previous pregnancy. Since we were planning (hoping!) to get pregnant I bought lots of jersey fabric in my last fabric haul from Fabricland. This was always intended to make some stretchy dresses to see me through my maternity. In my previous pregnancy, my two Moneta dresses were invaluable and still get worn regularly.<br />
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This time, I am planning to make two Wren dresses by Colette patterns. I am hoping the gathered elasticated waist will not only work with a baby bump but the wrap style will lend itself to nursing after baby is born, since I intend to breastfeed again. Other than these, I have no firm sewing plans as I am reluctant to make clothes knowing that I probably won’t be able to wear them for ages and also have no idea what my figure will be like post giving birth.<br />
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So, exciting stuff! I’m hopefully going to be able to find the time to blog about some of the things I have been up to and let you know my progress.Fionahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10771459560853275819noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-387178754621001381.post-59311737707683332362018-06-06T09:00:00.000+01:002018-06-06T09:00:08.392+01:00Fabric Haul!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Following on from <a href="http://sewingvsknitting.blogspot.com/2018/05/me-made-may-18-results.html">Me Made May</a> I've had a bit of a fabric shopping spree. There are not really any options for fabric shopping where I live, so I buy all of my fabric online and tend to splurge on a big order about once a year. </div>
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This recent fabric haul comes from <a href="https://www.fabricland.co.uk/">Fabricland</a>. I knew that I wanted to make some jersey dresses and t-shirts so I have mainly bought jersey. Here's what I've bought: </div>
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1. <a href="https://www.fabricland.co.uk/product/viscose-fabric-star-flower-blue-yellow/">Blue and Yellow Floral Viscose</a> </h2>
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I loved the print of these fabrics and the hints of yellow in the print. I bought 2m of this at £3.99 per metre. I originally planned to make a lovely summer dress using this fabric. It has a lovely drape but is quite lightweight and I'm worried it might be a bit see through. I'm not certain yet but I'm sure the correct project for this fabric will appear with time!</div>
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2. <a href="https://www.fabricland.co.uk/product/gingham-polycotton-3mm/">Black and White Gingham</a></h2>
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I've wanted a gingham dress for a while now and classic black and white check will go with a lot of accessorise and cardigans in my wardrobe. I think I've got 3m of this fabric which was £2.59 per metre. I have visions of something really simple: a knee length dress with a gathered waist, round neck and short sleeves. I have several patterns in my stash which might be suitable. </div>
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3. Black and White Stripe Rib</h2>
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Over this Winter I have enjoyed wearing my <a href="http://sewingvsknitting.blogspot.com/2018/04/two-cleo-dungaree-dresses.html">two Cleo Dungaree dresses</a> by Tilly and the Buttons but have lacked any long sleeve t-shirts to go with them. I love anything stripy and so picked up 2m of this stripy rib fabric at a bargain at only £2.49 per metre. I'm planning on sewing a long sleeve Freya shirt from Tilly Walnes' latest book <i><a href="https://shop.tillyandthebuttons.com/products/stretch">Stretch!</a></i>. </div>
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4. <a href="https://www.fabricland.co.uk/product/t-shirting-fabric-tiny-tom-sweet-pea/">Tiny Floral Jersey</a></h2>
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I had to have this jersey as soon as I saw it's lovely floral print. I don't think the photos on the Fabric Land website do this print much justice as it's beautifully detailed in real life and I love the pink, red and yellow colours. I also have 2m of this, bought at £4.99 per metre, which I originally intended to make another Freya t-shirt. However, it's very soft and with a lot of drape and I'm not sure it will work very well. I think it would make a lovely short sleeve Frankie t-shirt. Perfect for the summer. </div>
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5. <a href="https://www.fabricland.co.uk/product/t-shirting-fabric-black-spot-grey/">Gray Spot Print</a></h2>
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I've wanted to make another <a href="https://www.colettepatterns.com/catalog/moneta">Moneta dress by Colette</a> for ages, as mine have seen so much wear. What I love about this gray polka dot jersey is that it will be suitable to wear for work and also casually. This was £4.44 per m, I have plenty to make a dress and maybe also a t-shirt! </div>
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6. <a href="https://www.fabricland.co.uk/product/t-shirting-fabric-spot-the-rose/">Navy with Pink Roses</a></h2>
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Again, this fabric (£4.99 per m) is destined to also be another jersey dress, perhaps another <a href="https://www.colettepatterns.com/catalog/wren">Wren wrap dress by Colette</a>. My previous wren dress has seen lots of wear but is made from a winter jersey so this one would be great for the summer. It's also another dress that could be worn for work or at home and I have plenty of red/pink/navy shoes and accessorise to go with it. </div>
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7. <a href="https://www.fabricland.co.uk/product/jersey-fabric-bowling-ball-spot/">Peach and Navy Large Spot Jersey</a></h2>
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This fabric is the only one which has been disappointing. It's made from a polyester, which doesn't bother me, but there is not a massive amount of stretch in the fabric. I had in mind making a Joni dress from Tilly Walnes' recent book <a href="https://shop.tillyandthebuttons.com/products/stretch" style="font-style: italic;">Stretch!</a> and thought the large scale print would look great. I also didn't realise the spots were navy and not black. I'm not sure if this will work out as Joni dress but at only £3.99 per m, I figure I might as well give it a go! If it all goes wrong, I can put a side zip in! <br /><br />
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I'm currently in the process of washing all the fabrics so that they are ready for cutting out. I'm really excited to start sewing and am having trouble deciding which to make first! </div>
Fionahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10771459560853275819noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-387178754621001381.post-15049646597912230312018-06-02T09:00:00.000+01:002018-06-02T09:00:08.736+01:00Chambray Shorts<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I don't usually wear shorts - I can never seem to find any to fit quite right due to my curvy thighs and slim(mer!) waist. After a spell of hot weather in April I decided to see if I could make some shorts myself.<br />
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I knew I wanted them to be lightweight for hot weather and a looser design with an elasticated waist. After searching for some patterns I came across several tutorials on designing your own shorts pattern and decided to have a go myself!<br />
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As the basis of my pattern I used the Margot pyjama pattern from Tilly and the Button's first book <a href="https://shop.tillyandthebuttons.com/products/love-at-first-stitch">Love at First Stitch</a>. I made a few changes to this pattern. I decided where I wanted my shorts to finish, added 1/2 inch for hemming and this gave me the correct length. Because I was not using the channel for a drawstring, I added 5/8 inch to the fold line marked on the original pattern when tracing. I wanted to my shorts to be loose fitting and slightly a line in shape, so I added 1/2 inch to the outside hem of both the front and back pieces and curved the side seams slightly at the bottom, following a tutorial from the book <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Gertie-Sews-Vintage-Casual-Sportswear/dp/1617690740" target="_blank">Gertie Sews Vintage Casual</a> by Gretchen Hirsch. I then cut a length of fabric for the waistband. </div>
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The fabric I used was some chambray originally bought from <a href="https://www.calicolaine.co.uk/denim-chambray-fabric.html">Calico Laine</a> that was leftover from a blouse I made. Despite this being the first time I have ever sewn shorts/trousers, I put these together very quickly in just a few hours spread across three sessions. For some reason there was a length difference along the crotch but I trimmed down the excess and it seemed to work out ok! There are also several issues with the waistband. I had a lot of trouble cutting out the length I needed out of what was left from my fabric. When I started sewing it in it was slightly too short. I tried to ease it in but it has puckered a bit- annoyingly at the front. It's also too wide, so I've made a mistake when calculating the width of fabric needed. </div>
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Since making these I have worn them a couple of times - mainly around the house and also on holiday in Spain. They were great on the beach and comfortable without being at all revealing- I don't think I could wear short shorts! <br />
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I would definitely class these as a wearable muslin. I think they would look better using fabric with a better drape and maybe a bit of pattern. I need to fix the problem with the waistband and perhaps take some width out of the waist for a sleeker look. I'm also thinking about curving the bottom hem at the sides as a bit of a design feature.<br />
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<br />Fionahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10771459560853275819noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-387178754621001381.post-16503134303141815532018-05-31T12:04:00.003+01:002018-05-31T12:04:58.616+01:00Me Made May 18: The Results! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Today is the final day of Me Made May. At the beginning of May I pledged to wear at least one item of handmade clothes each day and to document my progress on Instagram. I often start a project but don't finish and so this time I was determined to make sure I stuck to my pledge.<br />
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In the first week, I found myself enjoying picking out which of my me-mades to wear and creating an outfit for that day. I have got to grips with posting on instagram, although my terrible selfies have not improved at all. A camping trip over the first May bank holiday made dressing handmade slightly harder, but not impossible, thanks to the glorious weather that weekend.<br />
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During the second week I enjoyed wearing both some of my newer items of clothing but also some older items that do not get as much wear: my red sleeveless blouse on day 10 and my denim hollyburn skirt on day 13. I also dug out my one handmade t-shirt on day 11 which fitted but was super tight and not at all comfortable.<br />
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I found in week 3 that I still had many handmade clothes to choose from and didn't realise how extensive my wardrobe was. There were some pieces that didn't get as much wear as others and I'm not quite sure why as they were great when I wore them. In particular the turquoise blue sleeveless blouse I wore on day 18 had almost never been worn, I think because I find it hard to build it into an outfit and the colour is quite bright.<br />
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Weeks 4 and 5 presented their own challenges as I had to pack for our holiday to Spain. Having only a limited amount of space in our luggage I developed a black/white/navy/red capsule wardrobe of pieces which I could mix and match. This was successful and I managed to stay on track with wearing handmade clothes and posting (almost) daily on Instagram.<br />
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One of my aims in taking part in Me Made May was to re-evlaute my wardrobe to find out which of my handmade garments had the most wear and where my gaps are. Here's what I've learnt:<br />
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<li>I wear an awful lot of red, white, blue and black. I don't know if this is necessarily a bad thing because my clothes are quite cohesive but I think I do need to add some accent colours to my wardrobe - mustard, yellow, pinks and emerald green would work well. </li>
<li>Surprisingly I found it easier to dress handmade on my work days than when I was dressing casually to stay at home or at the weekend. I have plenty of clothes which are suitable for me to wear to work and did not struggle at all to find outfits. My navy skirt is looking a bit tired and faded so this may be something to replace in the future and would match with many other existing items. </li>
<li>My most worn items are my black and white striped jersey pencil skirt which I wore 4 times, followed by my black and white striped jersey dress and red jersey pencil skirt each at 3 times. I love wearing these items and always felt fantastic wearing them. </li>
<li>The ready to wear items I missed the most were my jeans and t-shirt combos. This would have been my usual go to outfit on a day at home cleaning and taking my son to the park or playgroup. I definitely need to sew some more items to wear at home and casually, such as more jersey dresses and t-shirts. </li>
<li>I have a massive massive trouser shaped gap in my ready to wear wardrobe. I've never attempted to sew trousers and I think this is going to be my next adventure in handmade clothes. I currently do not have a decent fitting pair of work trousers and only one pair of ready made jeans that I like wearing. </li>
<li>Another gap I have is jersey t-shirts. I only wore one handmade t-shirt this month, which I do not like and most of my handmade skirts were paired with ready-made t shirts. </li>
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I have found taking part in Me Made May not only a fun and creative experience but also really useful in assessing my likes and dislikes in my current wardrobe. It has given me a direction for my future sewing plans. I'm not going to be focusing on making clothes for work but on casual clothes: jersey dresses, t-shirts and jeans/trousers (eventually!)</div>
Fionahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10771459560853275819noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-387178754621001381.post-21195854541427061762018-05-03T13:03:00.000+01:002018-05-03T13:04:14.993+01:00Me Made May<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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So it's a bit belated but I've finally signed up for Me Made May 2018 hosted by Zoe of 'So Zo...'. I've wanted to sign up for years but have never been able to, I was either a newbie, pregnant/giving birth or too busy being a mum. So here's my pledge for this year...<br />
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'I, Fiona, of https://sewingvsknitting.blogspot.co.uk/ and @fiona.gibbs on Instagram sign up as a participant of Me-Made-May '18. I endeavour to wear at least one item of handmade clothing every day and to discover which are my most worn handmade items and where any gaps in my wardrobe are during the month of May 2018.'<br />
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My aim is to reassess my handmade wardrobe and ready to wear wardrobe to see where the gaps are. I'm hoping to find out which are my most worn items and which are not successful. I'm then hoping that this will help me with planning future sewing projects.<br />
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I'm going to be posting daily outfits on Instagram @fiona.gibbs so follow me!Fionahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10771459560853275819noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-387178754621001381.post-63325180704435598902018-04-28T09:00:00.000+01:002018-04-28T09:00:30.296+01:00Two Cleo Dungaree Dresses<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-J1ZH4YROUyY/WtnxqzzfGyI/AAAAAAAACqs/6jPCgUqhNNYSUt0Bo62JEoxhaZqGw0SggCLcBGAs/s1600/cleo%2Bdresses.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1486" data-original-width="1600" height="594" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-J1ZH4YROUyY/WtnxqzzfGyI/AAAAAAAACqs/6jPCgUqhNNYSUt0Bo62JEoxhaZqGw0SggCLcBGAs/s640/cleo%2Bdresses.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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So, I've made not one but two <a href="https://shop.tillyandthebuttons.com/products/cleo">Tilly and the Buttons Cleo Dungaree Dresses</a> recently. I wasn't blown away when this pattern was first released but slowly fell in love with it. After making my first one in corduroy I quickly made a second one. </div>
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Cleo 1: Burgundy Corduroy</h2>
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For my first Cleo I used some Burgundy Corduroy I had in my stash, which was leftover from making a Hollyburn skirt years ago. Luckily, there was plenty left over and I knew straight away that I needed to make a dungarees dress.<br />
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There are only 4 pieces to the pattern so cutting out was quick. It was also fast to sew together, although I have to do this over several sessions. It became apparent once I had finished sewing the side seams that it was going to be too baggy for me. I cut a straight size 6 according to my hip measurements. Whilst it fitted nicely in the hips it was massive around my waist. </div>
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The dress then languished for a couple of weeks after just one wear. I realised that I just needed to take it in a few inches at both sides and managed to improve the fit. It is a lot better now and gets regular wear (I'm wearing this as I type!) despite still being a bit on the baggy side.</div>
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I really love the details on this dress, including the pockets and the topstitching. I used gold and tortoiseshell buttons, which I found at a vintage haberdashery shop on holiday in Bruges a few yeas ago. Unfortunately I used normal thread for topstitching which hasn't really shown up like I wanted it to. </div>
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Cleo 2: Black Denim</h2>
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My second Cleo came together much quicker than the first and only took me a couple of weeks to cut and sew. For my previous Cleo I cut a straight size 6 but found that it didn't fit around the waist. So, for this version I cut a size 6 skirt grading to a size 5 top using my previous version as a guide. <br />
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The fabric is a <a href="https://www.fabricland.co.uk/product/black-stretch-denim-fabric/">black stretch denim</a> from Fabricland online. I'm not sure how much I originally bought but there is quite a bit left over - I'm hoping to make some denim shorts for the summer! It was much faster sewing this cleo than my previous one and the fabric was lovely to work with.<br />
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Another change I made with this Cleo is to make it slightly longer, to enable me to wear it in the summer without tights as my corduroy one is slightly too short for my liking!</div>
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I also used proper topstitching thread for this Cleo, choosing a traditional gold thread which contrast nicely against the black denim. I'm pleased with the majority of my topstitching (just don't look at the back!). I chose mustard coloured buttons with an embossed flower detail from Minerva crafts. </div>
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I'm so pleased with these two dungaree dresses and they are a great addition to my wardrobe. I'm already having fun combing these with different t-shirts and blouses but am excited to sew up some me-made t-shirts to wear under these this winter. </div>
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<b>What are you sewing at the moment?</b></div>
Fionahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10771459560853275819noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-387178754621001381.post-12909894234146097352018-04-21T09:00:00.000+01:002018-04-21T09:00:37.312+01:00Black Apple Tea Dress<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--aatvYSK69M/Ws9Va0m5AmI/AAAAAAAACoE/rlQCetZ14xYnd7lwWsms2Y5IZdsN1oyVACEwYBhgL/s1600/UNADJUSTEDNONRAW_thumb_1bb0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--aatvYSK69M/Ws9Va0m5AmI/AAAAAAAACoE/rlQCetZ14xYnd7lwWsms2Y5IZdsN1oyVACEwYBhgL/s640/UNADJUSTEDNONRAW_thumb_1bb0.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Meet my new favourite dress! This dress has already had loads of wear and am excited to share it. I fell in love with this fabric, an apple print on a black background, from <a href="https://www.fabricland.co.uk/">fabricland</a> which was on sale at just £2.49 per metre. At this price I had to have some but then it languished in my stash for over a year. </div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BWcRcvmuCKI/Ws9ciykD_7I/AAAAAAAACpA/2pNp3Btf-l0S5twEidewpp6Oav3WU4DUACLcBGAs/s1600/UNADJUSTEDNONRAW_thumb_1bad.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BWcRcvmuCKI/Ws9ciykD_7I/AAAAAAAACpA/2pNp3Btf-l0S5twEidewpp6Oav3WU4DUACLcBGAs/s640/UNADJUSTEDNONRAW_thumb_1bad.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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I always knew I wanted to make it into a dress and originally thought that I might make something from <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Abrams-Publishing-285225-Gerties-Ultimate/dp/1617690759/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1490187841&sr=8-1&keywords=gertie%27s+ultimate+dress+book">Gertie's Ultimate Dress Book</a>. The perfect pattern turned out to be one that had been sitting in my stash for a while- <a href="https://www.simplesewpatterns.com/collections/frontpage/products/the-amelia-tea-dress">Simple Sew's Amelia Dress</a>. I got this free with a copy of Love Sewing magazine and loved it immediately. I rediscovered the forgotten pattern when tidying up my sewing space and knew it would be perfect for this fabric. </div>
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<a href="https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/1633/0433/products/30_Amelia_Tea_Dress_front_1024x1024@2x.jpg?v=1501255378" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="575" height="640" src="https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/1633/0433/products/30_Amelia_Tea_Dress_front_1024x1024@2x.jpg?v=1501255378" width="460" /></a></div>
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I made view B with the short sleeves, my preferred length of sleeve on a dress. I was attracted to the shirring at the waist of this pattern, which was a technique I hadn't used before. I did a few test rows on some scraps of fabric before shirring the waist panel. It is a very forgiving technique and although it's not as perfectly straight as I would like, it isn't noticeable. </div>
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It is a very flattering fit due to the shirred waist panel and this makes it so comfortable to wear. As a teacher, I'm moving around constantly, so it's important that my work clothes are smart but also comfortable which this is. I'm looking forward to wearing it with my red clog sandals in the summer. </div>
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The only change I made was to lower the neckline slightly- the V-neck was quite high so I made it about 1.5cm lower which is perfect and not revealing! I also bought the wrong zip - just an ordinary zip instead of an invisible zip which I am used to. Since I had never inserted a normal zip I had to look up how to online, but found it simple. It's not the best zip I've ever put into a dress, but it works and as it's at the back it's not something I have to look at!</div>
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I'm very pleased with this dress and it has inspired me to try another of the Simple Sew patterns - the<a href="https://www.simplesewpatterns.com/collections/frontpage/products/the-annabelle-dress"> Annabelle Dress</a> - which is going to be my summer holiday project! It's currently baking here today - 26 degrees - so I'm off to get a cool drink and sew something summery to wear this weekend. <br />
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<b>What's your favourite tea dress pattern?</b><br />
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<br />Fionahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10771459560853275819noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-387178754621001381.post-83605770733039600452018-04-14T09:00:00.000+01:002018-04-14T09:00:31.540+01:00My First knitted Cardigan<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I've not got a massive amount to say about this cardigan but feel like it warrants it own post. Because, I finally, finally did it- I knitted my own cardigan!!<br />
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My lovely husband bought me the yarn and pattern for Christmas back in Dec 2016. I started knitting immediately and managed to knit most of the pieces fairly quickly (for me!). It then languished in a cupboard waiting to be sewn up. </div>
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<a href="https://isv-loveknitting.freetls.fastly.net/index.php/v1/images/3ffc055e9ad9b0ce9200678d76e5b760/16fe74eb-5ace-40ab-b9ff-801bae404272.jpg/0/-/1024x1024" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="549" height="640" src="https://isv-loveknitting.freetls.fastly.net/index.php/v1/images/3ffc055e9ad9b0ce9200678d76e5b760/16fe74eb-5ace-40ab-b9ff-801bae404272.jpg/0/-/1024x1024" width="438" /></a></div>
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The pattern is number <a href="https://www.loveknitting.com/cardigans-in-hayfield-chunky-tweed-7492">7492 by Hayfield.</a> I used Hayfield Chunky Tweed in the Tenby colour which has lovely red, blue and yellow flecks. It was lovely yarn to use and because it was chunky I think this meant that my knitting grew quickly. As a beginner, this was good because it meant I could see my garment progress.</div>
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I've finally managed to get the fit right- previous cardigans have turned out too small and have been frogged half way through the project. It's also lovely and warm and is often the cardi I grab when it's cold outside. The only downside, is that the cardigan has bobbled quite a bit at the sleeves.</div>
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I am immensely proud that I have actually completed a wearable knitted garment. It is by no means perfect but it's a start.<br />
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<b>Whats on your needles? </b> </div>
Fionahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10771459560853275819noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-387178754621001381.post-22300807723331842722018-04-12T13:57:00.000+01:002018-04-12T13:57:51.102+01:00Wardrobe UpdateHello! I know it's been a while and I'll admit I had given up on blogging. I never deleted my blog but had no intentions of continuing to blog about my sewing and knitting adventures. Life sometimes gets in the way and for a while, I completely lost my sew-jo.<br />
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When I last posted, approximately this time last year, there never seemed to be enough hours in the day. My son was 10 months old, I was still breastfeeding due to his dairy allergy, he was only napping for about 30-40 minutes at a time and not sleeping through the night. We went through a rough patch where 5am wake ups were the norm. And to top it all, I had to give up milk products (cheese, chocolate, most cake ...).<br />
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I failed to manage to build in any sewing time into my schedule. Although we have a spare room I couldn't sew in there when he was asleep as he's a light sleeper and I couldn't sew during the day because 10 month old babies crawl. And mess around with your sewing machine foot!<br />
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So, fast forward a year and where am I now? Well, firstly we managed to find a dairy free formula that worked for us and I was able to gradually stop breastfeeding once my son reached his first birthday. And then he magically started sleeping through the night and wondrously began to take naps - eventually consolidating to one big nap of 1-2 hours a day. Most days I have to wake him up!<br />
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So now, I'm able to get at least an hour of sewing in a couple of times a week - usually on a Thursday and Friday's when I don't work. After a couple of months of moving the sewing machine around the house anytime I wanted to sew, I cleared out a cupboard in our kitchen/diner which I've now dedicated to my current sewing projects.<br />
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It's slow going compared to the speed in which I used to complete a garment and the time I used to dedicate to my sewing. It's really true when they say that sewing is good for your mental health, because I feel so much happier now I'm back creating my own wardrobe.<br />
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So I feel I should update the blog with a short rundown of what I've actually created since I last blogged.<br />
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Grey Jersey Wrap Dress - Feb 2017</h3>
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I bought 2m of <a href="https://www.fabricland.co.uk/product/jersey-print-fabric-winter-range-million-spots/">grey spot wool jersey</a> at £4.59 per metre from <a href="https://www.fabricland.co.uk/">Fabricland</a> with the intention of creating another jersey dress. It came as a surprise to me when this sweater knit jersey turned up; it wasn't exactly the colour or fabric I thought it was. The perils of online shopping! It did however become a <a href="https://www.colettepatterns.com/catalog/wren">Wren dress by Colette patterns</a>, with a gathered skirt. This dress has seen a lot of use, it's warm and cosy yet smart enough to wear to school with boots. It was great in this winter's snowy spell!<br />
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Forgot to take pics of this one!!<br />
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Red Pencil skirt - April 2017</h3>
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I made my <a href="http://sewingvsknitting.blogspot.co.uk/2015/09/jersey-pencil-skirt.html">first ever pencil skirt</a> way back in October 2015. The pattern was from <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Gertie-Sews-Vintage-Casual-Sportswear/dp/1617690740" target="_blank">Gertie Sews Vintage Casual</a> by Gretchen Hirsch - the Easy Knit Pencil Skirt. I bought some red <a href="https://www.fabricland.co.uk/product/ponte-roma-jersey/">Ponte Roma</a> from Fabricland with the intention of making a t-shirt but decided it was too thick. Instead, I whipped up another pencil skirt. My husband doesn't really like this skirt, but it fits so well into my wardrobe and I find I've got loads of different tops to wear with it. It works well with a simple t-shirt or something smarter for work.<br />
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Blue Houndstooth Pencil skirt - April 2017</h3>
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After making the previous pencil skirt, I immediately cut out and sewed up this beautiful skirt in blue and camel dogtooth print jersey. The fabric is very heavyweight and lends itself to being a pencil skirt very well. It's very flattering on and I love wearing this to work. It has such a vintage vibe but is so comfy. I love the pattern as it only has one piece to cut and only uses 1m of fabric. The only problem with this fabric is that I couldn't get my machine to hem it at all! From what I remember, the needle was just bouncing out and in the end I had to slip stitch the hem by hand. <br />
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Teal chunky knit cardigan - Oct 2017</h3>
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I finished a cardigan!! I was so proud to eventually finish this cardigan, even though I started it in January 2017 and finished it in October. It's lovely and snuggly to wear and I love putting it on. I feel this cardigan warrants it own post so I might get round to posting about some details sometime!<br />
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Burgundy Corduroy Cleo Dress- Nov 2017 </h3>
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When Tilly released the Cleo dress I wasn't immediately sold but found myself eventually warming to it. I finally took the plunge last Autumn and downloaded the pattern. The fabric I used was leftover from a previous project. It surprised me how simple this was to make, but the fit was a bit rubbish and I almost gave up. I'm glad I didn't because it has been worn loads this winter. In fact, so much that I made another one!<br />
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Black apple print tea dress - Feb 2018</h3>
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This is a simple sew tea dress made from a barginous length of apple print crepe de chine bought for £2.49 a metre at Fabricland. The fabric has a a subtle texture to it, but was a pain to work with- lots of fraying and since wearing I've managed to snag it in a couple of places. I love this dress though, the fit is brilliant due to the shirring at the front and it is so comfortable.<br />
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Black denim Cleo - March 2018</h3>
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I love this dress!! Such a quick project to sew up and complements my wardrobe wonderfully. I will hopefully write a post about my two cleo dresses as there are lots of details I would like to share.<br />
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Anyways, that's what I've been up to in the last year. I've got another garment almost finished (just need to hem) and some knitting going on which I'd like to update you on. I've also got to start planning some summer sewing.<br />
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<b>What are your sewing plans for the summer?</b>Fionahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10771459560853275819noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-387178754621001381.post-45086814340201936412017-03-22T13:05:00.001+00:002017-03-22T13:05:51.089+00:00Online fabric shopping spree<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I'm still plotting away with the sewing front. There hasn't been much sewing going on in these parts, except from some wedding bunting which is a future post, but I have been planning the garments I would like to sew. </div>
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I always end up having a big splurge on fabric about once a year and then spend the rest of the year sewing it all up. This time I bought 7 lengths of fabric online as I just don't have the time for real life shopping anymore and its not that fun with a little one in tow.</div>
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My online shopping comes courtesy of <a href="https://www.fabricland.co.uk/">Fabricland</a>. I have been to one of their fabric shops in Brighton and was really excited when they revamped their online shop. </div>
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The top fabric is 2m of <a href="https://www.fabricland.co.uk/product/black-stretch-denim-fabric/">black stretch denim</a> at £4.99 per m. I love black denim and this is a lovely textured colour. I'm planning on washing it a couple of times to soften it up before I sew with it. This is destined to be a button front skirt (a pattern which came with Love Sewing magazine) or I have a sneaking suspicion it might end up a <a href="https://shop.tillyandthebuttons.com/products/cleo">Cleo dungaree dress</a> by Tilly and the Buttons. </div>
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I bought 3 lengths of jersey. The first is 1m of red <a href="https://www.fabricland.co.uk/product/ponte-roma-jersey/">Ponte Roma</a> which was £3.99 per metre and is intended to be a simple t-shirt. The next is a blue and camel dogtooth print jersey, which I can no longer find on the Fabricland website. It's quite heavyweight and I mistakenly ordered two lots so I have 4m in total - enough to make a dress and a skirt and maybe even a t-shirt!! I also bought 2m of <a href="https://www.fabricland.co.uk/product/jersey-print-fabric-winter-range-million-spots/">grey spot wool jersey</a> at £4.59 per metre, which has already become a lovely wrap dress that has yet to be blogged. I also bought 1m of <a href="https://www.fabricland.co.uk/product/tracksuiting-superior-quality/">grey sweatshirt fabric</a> at £4.99 per metre (not pictured) which has become a pair of joggers, also yet to be blogged about. </div>
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My final purchases were 2m of black apple print Crepe, which was a bargin at £2.49 per metre and also 2m of <a href="https://www.fabricland.co.uk/product/forest-crepe-de-chine-fabric/">Forest Floral Crepe De Chine</a>. Both are destined to be dresses, although I have no idea which ones yet- perhaps something from <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Abrams-Publishing-285225-Gerties-Ultimate/dp/1617690759/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1490187841&sr=8-1&keywords=gertie%27s+ultimate+dress+book">Gertie's Ultimate Dress Book</a> which I got for Christmas but haven't used yet!<br />
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So plenty of sewing plans for me to get on with! I'm hoping to supplement my work wardrobe as well as sewing some casual pieces now I'm only working part time. I've had a big sort out an ditched loads of ready-to-wear clothes which I had been hording for years and am now beginning to plan for the gaps in my wardrobe. Fionahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10771459560853275819noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-387178754621001381.post-80858973079357534352017-03-14T08:25:00.000+00:002017-03-14T08:25:09.822+00:00Sunrise Socks<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Every time I go away on holiday, I always pack some knitting to take with me. I have found that socks make the perfect project, small enough to be portable and not take up too much room but interesting enough for me not to get bored half way though. Add some brightly coloured yarn and I'm a happy bunny!<br />
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Inevitably, I only manage to get part of the pair finished. This pair, which I have dubbed the Sunrise Socks because of the beautiful sunrise colours, I started during our holiday to see family in Spain in November. This time I managed to complete one whole sock in a week and then forced myself to finish the other in January so I could move onto other knitting projects. <br />
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The yarn I used in <a href="https://www.loveknitting.com/my-first-regia-4-ply">Schachenmayr Regia My First Regia</a> a 4 ply yarn in the Sandra colourway. I mistakenly thought this came in 50g balls and only bought two, in fact it comes in 25g balls so I had to order another one as I didn't have quite enough to finish both socks. It's lovely and soft and the variations in the colours are beautiful.<br />
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I used the same pattern as for my <a href="http://sewingvsknitting.blogspot.co.uk/2016/05/happy-camper-socks.html">Happy Camper socks</a>, which has become my go to sock pattern and came free with a ball of <a href="http://www.woolwarehouse.co.uk/sirdar-heart-sole-4-ply-happy-camper-0054-100g?gclid=CjwKEAjwu6a5BRC53sW0w9677RcSJABoFn4sgd77QvBdgHfNud8h_GUz10HD1O2z5vzfozcwk1-fvRoCJq_w_wcB" target="_blank">Sidar Heart and Sole Sock Yarn</a>. It's a straight forward pattern to knit and much easier the second time round. The only difference I made was to shorten the length of the ribbing at the top of the cuff of the socks. <br />
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I have already worn these several times and they are so comfy. Now that I have made a couple of pairs of socks I am hooked. I have already bought three balls of <a href="https://www.loveknitting.com/king-cole-zig-zag-4-ply">King Cole Zig Zag</a> which comes in the best colours for my next sock project as we are off on holiday at the end of the month. Can't wait!!Fionahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10771459560853275819noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-387178754621001381.post-52982009046409960752017-03-14T08:05:00.000+00:002017-03-14T08:05:48.327+00:00Nursing Tee<div>
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I spent ages trying to decide if it was worth sewing my own nursing t-shirts. My current wardrobe staples consist of a pair of stretchy skinny jeans, good for sitting and playing on the floor and a nursing t-shirt. Add a brightly coloured cardigan and my outfits are completed.<br />
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In the end I decided to give it a go using a<a href="http://sozowhatdoyouknow.blogspot.co.uk/2014/05/tutorial-how-to-pattern-hack-coco-for.html"> tutorial by So Zo what do you know</a> based on the Coco pattern. I made this ages ago - before christmas but have only just got round to blogging about it now! </div>
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I decided to use the Breton t-shirt pattern from the <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Great-British-Sewing-Bee-Stitch-x/dp/1849498822">Great British Sewing Bee: From Stitch to Style</a> Book and adapt the pattern to create my nursing t-shirt. My husband bought me this book as a treat, post labour, and I liked this pattern straight away.<br />
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I traced a size 14 based on the pattern measurements tracing two front pattern pieces. One was left mostly the same, except I cut off the sleeves. The second I cut at the empire line, adding a seam allowance. Adapting the pattern was surprisingly easy, as there were only 4 pieces in total and one additional front piece.<br />
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The fabric I used was a floral print polyester jersey from <a href="https://www.minervacrafts.com/shop/fabric/dress-fabrics&type=Jersey&sort=price-asc&page=4">Minerva Crafts</a>, which I chose because it was cheap. I originally picked it to make a Cordelia Maternity camisole but didn't need it in the end. I managed to squeeze my pieces out of a metre of fabric, with none left over!<br />
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The construction of the t-shirt was easily adapted and did not take me very long. There was lots of trying on in the process to ensure that the fit was good. I did find that whilst the t-shirt fit very well at the hips and waist the neck was really, really gapey. I actually took around 2 inches from each side for it to fit correctly. If I make this t-shirt again I will make sure I grade down on the pattern at the bust.<br />
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I was happy with the fit of the final t-shirt. Unfortunately, I only wore this t-shirt once before it shrunk in the wash!! I've never bothered to pre-wash my fabrics but now I am convinced of the need. Lesson learnt!<br />
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Sadly, I don't think I'll be making another nursing t-shirt as my breasfeeding journey is slowly coming to an end now that the little man is approaching a year old. I'm back at work in two weeks, which has left me wondering where all the time has gone! <br />
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I've got a backlog of blog posts coming up which I hope to post in the not too distant future. </div>
Fionahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10771459560853275819noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-387178754621001381.post-89015442513493190652017-03-02T15:56:00.000+00:002017-03-02T15:56:21.672+00:00Miette Progress<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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So, it's been a while. Like ages. January is gone, never to be seen again. I haven't stopped sewing or knitting but there never seems to be any time to photograph and blog about my makes. Baby Arthur and his social life is currently taking up most of my time - swimming lessons, sing and sign, baby groups, discovery play, ... I can't believe he's almost 9 months. But he's such a joy.<br />
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I have been managing to carve out some time for sewing, mostly in the evenings and lots and lots of knitting. Whilst I can't always find the energy to tackle a sewing project I can always manage to knit a few rows.<br />
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A knitting project that I started a while back is a <a href="http://untangling-knots.com/shop/patterns/garments/miette/" target="_blank">Miette</a> Cardigan in a lovely pink colour. Whilst I love this pattern by Andi Satterlund, its perhaps not my best choice for a beginners project. I have a bit of a history of starting knitting garments and not finishing them and unfortunately this has become one of these.<br />
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You see, I actually managed to knit about half of the cardigan. I knitted the main body and started on one of the set in sleeves. There was nothing wrong with my knitting- except the cardigan didn't fit. After trying it on I realised that it was minuscule on me- like child size!<br />
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So where did I go wrong? Turned out that despite knitting a tension square there were a few things wrong with this project. I struggled to get the correct tension with my chosen yarn <a href="http://www.loveknitting.com/cascade-220">Cascade 220</a>- I had too many stitches and despite going up a size in the needles it wasn't right in the end. I also knitted the wrong size, I knitted the smallest size, a 32 inch chest, thinking that this would be okay with my small tension but in fact I needed a 36 inch chest for my post baby body.<br />
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I did decided to start again! I knitted another tension square using size 6 needles and magically got the right gauge. Hooray! This time I'm knitting the biggest size, a 36 inch chest and I can already see that it is a better fit.<br />
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At the moment though, I've shelved this project ... I kind of got a bit bored of it I think but I know I will come back to it at some point!!<br />
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Lots more knitting projects to share so watch this space!!Fionahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10771459560853275819noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-387178754621001381.post-72714999577890231732016-11-30T19:55:00.000+00:002016-11-30T19:55:47.463+00:00October and November<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Where has the time gone? It's been ages since I have posted, although I have continued both sewing and knitting all be it at a slower pace. Previously, I used to have days or a week of frenzied sewing but these days I have to try and fit it around a small person. Little A is getting bigger and needs more entertaining these days so I cannot focus solely on sewing or knitting any more. <br />
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We've finally moved into our new house. It was a bit surreal at first, having not lived in our own space since Uni (10 years ago!!) but I'm enjoying it immensely. We've decorated and I love living in a space which is so aesthetically pleasing to me. It turns out my tastes naturally tend to mid-century vintage - teak furniture, geometric prints and lots of teal, yellow and grey. Above is a picture of the dining area in our kitchen. I've had great fun unpacking all our belongings from storage, including our wedding presents. My favourite thing is our cutlery set - it's so bright and really cheers me up, I love using it.<br />
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Anyways, I thought very briefly about making my own curtains but soon realised this wasn't feasible with a baby and 7 pairs of curtains to create. So I bought ready-made, but the problem is our windows our not standard sizes (thanks to my architect husband) and so every single pair of curtains needs altering in some way. It's a nightmare!<br />
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So the reason I haven't been able to post is because I've been in curtain altering hell, which is not a great place to be. I've gone on strike currently and am planning to fit in some much needed projects for me. I have managed to get some time every evening with my knitting projects and will update on those soon!Fionahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10771459560853275819noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-387178754621001381.post-39822943373275077692016-09-25T14:11:00.000+01:002016-09-25T14:11:14.447+01:00Beginning Miette<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I posted about my struggles with knitting in a post last week. I am again attempting to knit the <a href="http://untangling-knots.com/shop/patterns/garments/miette/" target="_blank">Miette</a> Cardigan by Andi Satterlund following on from my previous failed version.<br />
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My yarn arrived last Monday. This time I will be using <a href="http://www.loveknitting.com/cascade-220">Cascade 220</a> in Azala, which is the closest match to the recommended yarn for the pattern, Cascase Sierra, that I could find. This is a worsted weight yarn and so knits up differently to the DK I had previously been using.<br />
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The first thing I needed to do once my yarn had arrived, is wind the skeins into balls. I had previously read somewhere about the danger of knitting directly from a skein as it gets all tangled. I followed this <a href="http://notsogranny.com/2014/03/how-to-wind-a-ball-from-a-skein.html">handy tutorial by Not So Granny</a>. It was easy to do but very time consuming, so I only wound the one skein- when I run out I'll wind another.<br />
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My mistake with my previous Miette was using the wrong yarn, which would have been glaringly obvious if I had knitted a swatch. Having truly learnt my lesson, my first step in this project was to knit a tension swatch. The pattern calls for 16 stitches and 22 rows across a 10 cm square, however Cascade 220 has a slightly larger tension of 18-20 stitches across 10 cm.<br />
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I cast on 30 stitches and continued until my swatch was about 12 cm in length. After measuring I found that I had 20 stitches and 26 rows in my 10 cm square - too big for the pattern and my cardigan would have been too big. After consulting with a knitting friend, she recommended knitting another tension square using a smaller needle. I used a 4.5 mm needle and made a smaller swatch, which measured 21 stitches - only slightly smaller. I decided it wasn't worth going down in the needle size and so am knitting the smallest version with a bust size of 32". Hopefully this should give me the correct fit,<br />
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So far, I have cast on and have completed the first 7 rows. I have pledged to myself that I will do a little bit of knitting every day, even if it is just 1 or 2 rows. My aim is to complete the cardigan ready for our holiday to Spain at the end of November.Fionahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10771459560853275819noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-387178754621001381.post-66110217915063243552016-09-10T14:49:00.000+01:002016-09-10T14:49:16.234+01:00Knitting Fail<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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My knitting projects take me a lot longer to complete than my sewing projects. I tend to start them and then pick up and put down my knitting when my mood takes me. I started knitting the <a href="http://untangling-knots.com/shop/patterns/garments/miette/" target="_blank">Miette</a> Cardigan by Andi Satterlund at the beginning of the year. The mood stuck me and so one day I grabbed the yarn and the pattern and got started.<br />
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The yarn was on its second incarnation, as I had previously started knitting the Simple Round Neck Sweater from <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Learn-Knit-Love-Anna-Wilkinson/dp/1849491615" target="_blank">Learn to Knit, Love to Knit </a>by Anna Wilkinson. The problem is that this yarn just does not suit this knit. The yarn in question is <a href="http://www.loveknitting.com/stylecraft-life-dk">Stylecraft Life DK</a> in purple heather, which has a gauge of 22 sticthes to 30 rows for a 10cm square. The Miette pattern on the other hand, calls for a gauge of 16 stitches to 20 rows and recommends using Cascade Sierra. It was never going to work, so sadly I have had to ditch this project.<br />
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I have learnt a few things from this failed project: always, ALWAYS start with a tension square to check gauge and that I am able to knit a garment (or at least half). I actually managed to get most of the way down the bodice and so I am feeling confident that I am skilled enough to attempt this pattern now that I have mastered some of the techniques. <br />
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I have decided to try this knitting pattern again, however this time I will be using the correct yarn! Since Cascade Sierra is now discontinued, I will be using <a href="http://www.loveknitting.com/cascade-220">Cascade 220</a> in Azala. I've gone for a vibrant pink shade which I currently do not have in my rainbow collection of cardigans. I'm excited to get started and am just waiting for my yarn to be delivered - I will update on my progress in due course! </div>
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Fionahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10771459560853275819noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-387178754621001381.post-2298161859663534942016-09-03T10:00:00.000+01:002018-04-09T13:37:55.617+01:00Autumn and Winter Sewing Plans<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The summer is coming to an end and soon we will be exchanging summer dresses and sandals for winter dresses and boots. I've been taking stock of my wardrobe, looking for gaps and deciding what garments I could add for the autumn and winter. Here's my current wishlist of garments I would like to make:<br />
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1. Black denim skirt</h2>
I received a copy of Simple Sew's Chelsea pattern collection with <a href="http://www.lovesewingmag.co.uk/downloads/item/539-issue-29-downloads">issue 29 of Love Sewing magazine</a>. I love all the patterns in this collection, but what caught my eye is version A of the skirt. There is a lovely denim version in the magazine and I really want one in black denim. This would match a lot of my t-shirts and cardigans and would be great with tights and my tan closed-toe clogs. The magazine includes instructions for flatfelled seams, which would be a nice detail on this skirt and a new technique for me.<br />
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2. Collette Wren wrap dress</h2>
I've been on the search for dresses and tops suitable for breastfeeding and came across the<a href="https://www.colettepatterns.com/catalog/wren"> Wren dress by Colette patterns</a>. This wrap style dress features two types of skirts and comes with 4 different sleeve variations, so is a very versatile pattern. I have previously made <a href="https://www.colettepatterns.com/catalog/moneta">Colette's Moneta dress</a> (<a href="http://sewingvsknitting.blogspot.co.uk/2015/06/stripy-moneta-dress.html">here</a> and <a href="http://sewingvsknitting.blogspot.co.uk/2015/06/moneta-no-2.html">here</a>) which have been worn many, many times and are now looking a bit tatty. I'm hoping the wren dress will also become a much loved part of my wardrobe.<br />
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3. Sewaholic Belcarra blouse</h2>
I currently don't have a go to pattern for a simple woven t-shirt. I've been lusting after <a href="http://www.sewaholicpatterns.com/belcarra-blouse/">Sewaholic's Belcarra blouse</a> blouse for a very long time. I love all three variations, including the cute pocket and the pintuck sleeves. I think this would look great tucked into skirts or worn loose with skinny jeans. I'm thinking this will be great in some bold patterns or prints. <br />
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<a href="http://www.simplysewing.foxtrot.imdserve.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/71/2016/05/Sewing-Bee-Breton-top-pattern.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.simplysewing.foxtrot.imdserve.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/71/2016/05/Sewing-Bee-Breton-top-pattern.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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4. GBSB Breton T-shirt</h2>
My husband bought me the book from series 4 of the <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Great-British-Sewing-Bee-Stitch/dp/1849498822/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1472648518&sr=8-1&keywords=great+british+sewing+bee+book">Great British Sewing Bee: From Stitch to Style</a> by Wendy Gardiner, as a treat shortly after I had my baby. I was immediately drawn to the Breton t-shirt and would love to add a few to my wardrobe. In particular, I like the cap sleeves which are part of the body of the t-shirt. I really like the red short sleeve version in the picture and plan to make my own version!<br />
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<a href="http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0364/2693/products/Bettine_sewing_pattern_cover_76f479e3-d75c-47e5-8bb8-e0e1669ec7e8_1024x1024.jpg?v=1465838517" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0364/2693/products/Bettine_sewing_pattern_cover_76f479e3-d75c-47e5-8bb8-e0e1669ec7e8_1024x1024.jpg?v=1465838517" height="640" width="450" /></a></div>
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5. Tilly and the Buttons Bettine dress</h2>
I've sewn quite a few patterns from Tilly and the Buttons but wasn't immediately sold on the <a href="http://shop.tillyandthebuttons.com/products/bettine">Bettine dress</a>. I usually go for full or A line skirts, so the tulip skirt didn't appeal to me. However, I've recently purchased a ready-to-wear nursing dress in a similar shape with a scoop neck, tulip skirt and elasticated waist, which I love! This has made me re-think the Bettine dress. I love the pocket and cuff details and can see this in some lovely printed viscose.<br />
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6. Self drafted Modern Shirt Dress</h2>
It's probably obvious by now from my blog that I love a shirt dress. There are so many variations to shirt dresses that I never get bored. They can be dressed up or down, I can wear them to work and they are also breastfeeding appropriate. I love this modern version of the Shirt Dress which features in <a href="http://www.lovesewingmag.co.uk/downloads/item/544-love-sewing-issue-30-downloads">Issue 30 of Love Sewing magazine</a>. It is a self-drafted pattern which intrigues me and I love the simple style. Again, I think this would be nice in a printed viscose or maybe some chambray. <br />
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<a href="http://sewoverit.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/Doris.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://sewoverit.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/Doris.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a><a href="http://sewoverit.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/1940s-Tea-Dress.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://sewoverit.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/1940s-Tea-Dress.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a></div>
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7. Sew over it Tea Dresses</h2>
Tea dresses are another favourite of mine and I really like Sew Over It's patterns, although I have never made one. I love both the <a href="http://sewoverit.co.uk/product/doris-dress-sewing-pattern/">Doris Dress</a> and the <a href="http://sewoverit.co.uk/product/1940s-tea-dress-sewing-pattern/">1940's Tea Dress</a>. Both dresses have a fitted bodice with vintage details and a plain skirt. I can't decide which pattern I prefer, but can envision them both in a floral ditsy print. <br />
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Starting from October, I plan to try and make a minimum of 1 garment a month. We are moving house at the end of this month so I won't have time for sewing at the moment as I am busy packing etc. I also have limited time for sewing, so this seems like a reasonable target.<br />
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<b>What are your sewing plans for Autumn and Winter? </b>Fionahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10771459560853275819noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-387178754621001381.post-91196205907214346162016-08-31T10:00:00.000+01:002016-08-31T10:00:14.121+01:00Navy Heart Clemence Skirt<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9zv_kSwKD7M/V7sXFdwHt5I/AAAAAAAACFk/nqI_R8IAY-ARiBynd7Zvq9L5emEOwFUfgCEw/s1600/IMG_1227.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9zv_kSwKD7M/V7sXFdwHt5I/AAAAAAAACFk/nqI_R8IAY-ARiBynd7Zvq9L5emEOwFUfgCEw/s640/IMG_1227.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I can't believe it's the end of August. The summer seems to have gone so quickly. Usually I would be planning for my return to school but this year I will be able to enjoy the late summer. One of the glaring holes in my current wardrobe are skirts. It's been so hot, I needed something cool to wear. </div>
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I'm currently saving all my pennies for moving house, so haven't been able to buy any fabric. One of the only pieces of fabric I had left was 1.5 metres of this navy blue heart print. I bought this fabric on my trip to Walthamstow last year and it was originally intended to be another Tilly and the Buttons Mimi Blouse from <a href="http://shop.tillyandthebuttons.com/products/love-at-first-stitch">Love at First Stitch</a>. I was trying to figure out what sort of fabric would make a good skirt when I remembered I had this fabric!</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--PwQHY1ORP4/U2i_GS7mCDI/AAAAAAAAL3E/UkbRS4TYsGg/s1600/LOVE_AT_FIRST_STITCH_7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--PwQHY1ORP4/U2i_GS7mCDI/AAAAAAAAL3E/UkbRS4TYsGg/s1600/LOVE_AT_FIRST_STITCH_7.jpg" height="640" width="376" /></a></div>
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The pattern I have used is the self-drafted Clemence pattern from Love at first Stitch. It was the ideal pattern as I only had 1.5 meters of fabric and I wouldn't need to trace out a correct size pattern, making it an easy make. Since I'm short on time these days, this helped cut down the tine it took me to cut and construct this skirt - I finished it in 3 days.</div>
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This is my second Clemence skirt, so I was familiar with the construction. I used French seams for the skirt seams, which give a neat finish. I had to sew this skirt over several days, doing a bit at a time to fit around the baby. This time I used my invisible zip foot, which I had forgotten I had but found when I was looking for my regular zip foot. </div>
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I'm pleased with the finished skirt. The construction of my garments seem to be getting neater, which is either due to experience or because I am having to take my time. The fit of the skirt is good, however the waist is slightly loose since I first made it. </div>
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I've since worn this skirt a few times, including a camping trip. It is very comfortable to wear and I will also be good to wear in the autumn and winter with tights, boots and a cardi.<br />
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<br />Fionahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10771459560853275819noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-387178754621001381.post-63716719270256252612016-08-27T10:00:00.000+01:002016-08-27T10:00:21.480+01:00Nursing clothes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The baby is currently asleep on me, so I have a chance to write a post I've been meaning to for a while on ... nursing clothes.<br />
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Before I was pregnant I didn't really think what my post pregnancy wardrobe was going to look like. I naively thought that I would just slip back into my old clothes after a couple of weeks. In reality, my body is not the same- I am left with a rounded tummy and my waist/bust measurements are no longer the same. I guess I should try some combination of diet/exercise to slim back down but at the moment I just don't have the energy for all that. So my first problem is that none of my lovely me-made clothes fit.<br />
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My second problem is breastfeeding. My little boy is a proper milk monster and needs feeding regularly at all hours of the day. This means that I need access to my boobies and have found that most of my clothes either do not have boob access or don't fit at the moment. It was obvious that new clothes would be needed.<br />
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So there's the problem and to solve this I did what all normal people do ... I googled. Here's a summary of the solutions I found to my nursing clothes problem:<br />
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1. The two t-shirts trick</h2>
One of the most common solutions, is the two t-shirt trick: basically, you wear a strappy vest under a slightly bigger outer t-shirt or top. The idea is that when you want to feed the outer top goes up, the vest goes down to give boob access. The vest top manages to conserve your modesty and cover the mummy tummy. The benefit of this is that you can wear many of your current tops without having any extra expenditure. The downside is that this is hot- in the summer you don't really want to be wearing two layers, especially when you have a warm baby, a.k.a. a hot water bottle, attached to your front. I've tried this method, particularly with my <a href="http://sewingvsknitting.blogspot.co.uk/2016/08/turquoise-bexley-tunic-top.html">Turquoise Tunic top</a> and it just didn't really work for me.<br />
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2. Ready to wear nursing clothes</h2>
So I'm going to have to make a confession ... I had to buy some RTW clothes. If I had been less naive/ more organised I could have made nursing clothes before giving birth. However, this didn't happen so I ended up browsing online to buy some nursing clothes. From the high street shops, I highly recommend <a href="http://www2.hm.com/en_gb/search-results.html?q=nursing">H&M</a> for great quality basics, <a href="http://direct.asda.com/on/demandware.store/Sites-ASDA-Site/default/Search-Show?q=nursing&cgid=10&ccgid=10#http://direct.asda.com/on/demandware.store/Sites-ASDA-Site/default/Search-Show?q=nursing&cgid=10&ccgid=10">Asda</a> also do a reasonably priced selection of nursing clothes and also <a href="http://www.newlook.com/shop/maternity/_/N-clv?Ntt=nursing&icCategory=cat1920017&filtered=1">New Look</a> have a good range. Most of the ready made clothes have a double layer around the neckline/bust area, which means you can lower the front layer to nurse. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O288d1gen7U/V8AHdv547qI/AAAAAAAACF8/N4F61VCCKiQKWaJ6zjZ-J6GrR9ywYMbLACLcB/s1600/nursingcollage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O288d1gen7U/V8AHdv547qI/AAAAAAAACF8/N4F61VCCKiQKWaJ6zjZ-J6GrR9ywYMbLACLcB/s640/nursingcollage.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Clockwise, from top left: 1) Nursing Dress, H&M, 2) Black and white nursing t-shirts, H&M, 3) Two pack wrap nursing t-shirts, Asda and 4) Red Nursing t-shirt, Asda </td></tr>
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Obviously, for me the benefit of buying ready to wear clothes is that they are readily available and they are so much easier to breastfeed in discreetly when out and about. As someone who makes their own clothes obviously I don't feel that great about buying clothes and would prefer to make my own.<br />
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3. A cut out vest</h2>
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I already have some tops and dresses that would be suitable for nursing, but I find they leave me a little too exposed for breastfeeding in public. Whilst browsing online, I discovered a tutorial for creating <a href="http://diymaternity.com/tops/the-no-sew-nursing-top-solution/">a no sew nursing top soluton</a> that can be layered under other clothes. The idea is that you take a RTW vest (I had loads of old ones that I bought for £1 from primark) and cut two access circles around the boob area. </div>
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These have been brilliant, meaning that I have been able to wear them under several of my existing tops/dresses, such as my<a href="http://sewingvsknitting.blogspot.co.uk/2016/08/navy-tile-print-shirt-dress.html"> navy tile print shirt dress</a> and my two versions of a <a href="http://sewingvsknitting.blogspot.co.uk/2016/05/turquoise-sleeveless-blouse.html">sleeveless shirt</a>, to make them appropriate for nursing in.<br />
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<br />4. Nursing Patterns</h2>
There are sewing patterns for nursing including the <a href="http://megannielsen.com/collections/maternity/products/perfect-nursing-maternity-top">Amber Nursing dress/t-shirt</a> by Megan Nielsen who also has a range of maternity patterns. There are also <a href="https://jaycotts.co.uk/collections/patterns_maternity">nursing/maternity patterns</a> available by the big four pattern houses. <br />
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A good round up of indi nursing patterns and also hacks for non-nursing patterns is available on <a href="http://swoodsonsays.com/nursing-friendly-pdf-sewing-patterns-alteration-tutorials/">this blog</a>. My issue with nursing patterns, is how much use will you get from a specific nursing sewing pattern? Although I suppose you could still wear the garment after you finish nursing I'm not sure that I would want to!<br />
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5. Non-nursing Patterns</h2>
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My plan for sewing my own nursing wardrobe is to use sewing patterns that already have access for breastfeeding. Button down shirts or dresses, like my<a href="http://sewingvsknitting.blogspot.co.uk/2016/08/navy-tile-print-shirt-dress.html"> navy tile print shirt dress</a>, already have built in access. Another option are wrap tops or dresses. My favourites so far are the <a href="http://www.lovesewingmag.co.uk/learn-to-sew/sewing-news/item/470-issue-22">1502 wrap top and dress</a> by Threadcount Patterns and Colette's <a href="https://www.colettepatterns.com/catalog/wren">Wren wrap dress</a>. The great thing about these patterns is that they would be suitable for nursing without any adaptations and I can still wear them after. </div>
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So there we are! It's taken me several nap times to write this but hopefully someone will find this useful and I have found it helpful to document my. </div>
Fionahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10771459560853275819noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-387178754621001381.post-22776416938303265092016-08-24T10:00:00.000+01:002016-08-24T10:00:01.276+01:00Navy Tile Print Shirt Dress<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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One of the challenges of being a mum, aside from having a little person attached to you 24/7, is finding the right clothes. As a mum who is breastfeeding, where boobie access in a garment is paramount, this becomes even more difficult. One solution is a shirt dress.<br />
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I've had this fabric sitting around in my stash since I made a trip to Walthamstow market some time last year. It was always intended for a shirt dress,to add to my work wardrobe. I originally had the McCalls M6696 picked out following on from the <a href="http://sewingvsknitting.blogspot.co.uk/2015/08/black-floral-shirtdress.html">black floral sleeveless</a> version I made last year. However, since having a baby my waist mesurement is no longer the same, so I couldn't use my already cut out pattern pieces.<br />
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I instead chose to make this shirt dress by Threadcount. Ironically, I actually received this in my May subscription of <a href="http://www.lovesewingmag.co.uk/downloads/item/516-love-sewing-issue-27-templates">Love Sewing magazine</a>, which was brought into the hospital for me after I had given birth. I wasn't very sold on the image on the pattern, as I don't usually go for such a boxy shape with no fitting at the waist but decided to give this a go based on the photos in the magazine. <br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NcdMVTNfUjU/V7sDg5aU9GI/AAAAAAAACFA/SlYciZ5sb0ksnK9RPYKUJxzdmmF2JqYzgCEw/s1600/IMG_1236.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NcdMVTNfUjU/V7sDg5aU9GI/AAAAAAAACFA/SlYciZ5sb0ksnK9RPYKUJxzdmmF2JqYzgCEw/s640/IMG_1236.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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I cut a size 12 on top, grading up to a size 14 at the hips and skirt. The fabric was some sort of viscose/poylester which was easy to cut out and work with. The instructions straight forward to follow and as I already have a fair amount of experience making shirts and shirt dresses, I was already familiar with the construction process of making a collar.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uU_h-Pb0hYQ/V7sDgyY9OmI/AAAAAAAACEw/MuqEMJUBb9Eh0YGvMnwdQK9zvYVU-hlnACLcB/s1600/IMG_1233.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uU_h-Pb0hYQ/V7sDgyY9OmI/AAAAAAAACEw/MuqEMJUBb9Eh0YGvMnwdQK9zvYVU-hlnACLcB/s1600/IMG_1233.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"> </a><br />
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I made a few changes to the original pattern. The main one being that I shortened the sleeves, to make this dress summer appropriate and also a quicker make (no cuffs)! I shortened the length of the dress to make it knee length and also omitted some of the topstitching around the collar, as I couldn't be bothered. I used navy blue geometric printed buttons which I bought from my local fabric and haberdashery shop; I thought they matched the tile print nicely.<br />
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Although you can't see it, the construction of this dress went very well. I finished all the inside seams using my overlocker foot on my machine and the inside collar is slipstitched. My technique for sewing the collar and stand has really improved and is much more symmetrical now. I'm also pleased with the button placement on this dress. <br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uU_h-Pb0hYQ/V7sDgyY9OmI/AAAAAAAACFA/Sdqj9w9zIo48kOAX1TEfJBouW7gVXLFqQCEw/s1600/IMG_1233.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uU_h-Pb0hYQ/V7sDgyY9OmI/AAAAAAAACFA/Sdqj9w9zIo48kOAX1TEfJBouW7gVXLFqQCEw/s640/IMG_1233.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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I'm pleased with the finish of this dress. It looks nice on, it fits well and is comfortable to wear. I wear it with a belt in order to pull it in at the waist and this makes it feel more fitted. I wore this dress recently on a trip to London to go to Marcus Wearing's restaurant. <br />
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I'm still very much liking shirt dresses, they feel comfortable and stylish and I love making them. I really want to have a go at the <a href="http://www.paulinealicepatterns.com/cami-dress">Cami dress by Pauline Alice</a> or the <a href="http://sewoverit.co.uk/product/vintage-shirt-dress-sewing-pattern/">Vintage Shirt Dress by Sew Over It</a>.Fionahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10771459560853275819noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-387178754621001381.post-10829956874279580132016-08-22T14:39:00.000+01:002016-08-22T14:39:43.215+01:00Turquoise Bexley Tunic Top<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r42J_K-gdR0/V7r-bk-89qI/AAAAAAAACEM/GJPzDqe8fDoaKvvBHhz75tjJ8gAvr9NwgCLcB/s1600/IMG_1218.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r42J_K-gdR0/V7r-bk-89qI/AAAAAAAACEM/GJPzDqe8fDoaKvvBHhz75tjJ8gAvr9NwgCLcB/s640/IMG_1218.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Whilst waiting for my little boy to be born, way back in May, I occupied myself by sewing clothes for me to wear post-pregnancy. One of these is this beautiful turquoise tunic. </div>
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The pattern is the <span style="text-align: center;">Bexley Tunic from </span><a href="http://www.lovesewingmag.co.uk/downloads/item/504-love-sewing-issue-26" style="text-align: center;" target="_blank">Issue 26 of Love Sewing Magazine</a><span style="text-align: center;">. I wasn't that sold on the pattern to start with as it seemed a bit mumsy (ironic I know!) but I soon realised how useful this top would be post pregnancy. </span></div>
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The fabric was once from my very small stash. I had previously blogged about this <a href="http://sewingvsknitting.blogspot.co.uk/2015/08/mystery-fabric.html">mystery turquoise fabric</a>; one given to me by my Mum and another turquoise remnant I bought. </div>
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I cut a size medium, based on my pregnancy bust size (I correctly assumed my increased bust size would still be around post-pregnancy). It was straight forward to construct, with a gathered front yoke and biased bound neckline, techniques which were not new to me. The fabric is quite delicate and did tend to fray quite a bit so I tried not to handle the pieces too much. </div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WuieuEVlCy8/V7c0lfAqCEI/AAAAAAAACC4/rgAMpDci_tUtDRnKAr1YbuaIHB70SSRjwCLcB/s1600/IMG_1086.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WuieuEVlCy8/V7c0lfAqCEI/AAAAAAAACC4/rgAMpDci_tUtDRnKAr1YbuaIHB70SSRjwCLcB/s640/IMG_1086.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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The problem is, it's wayyy too big!!<br />
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I tried this top on whilst still pregnant and it fitted me then... I knew it was going to need some adjustment once I had slimmed down. There is a lot of room around the bust and hips. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rPU7d22NbM0/V7c0l7gnkMI/AAAAAAAACDA/AAxjE5XO7PwZOKkfMd2ufVorp5xiyumxQCEw/s1600/IMG_1088.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rPU7d22NbM0/V7c0l7gnkMI/AAAAAAAACDA/AAxjE5XO7PwZOKkfMd2ufVorp5xiyumxQCEw/s640/IMG_1088.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Before</td></tr>
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After fiddling around a bit with pinning and trying on, I had to take 3 inches from each side hem and taper this up to the arms. It has left the hem slightly twisted and a tuck in the back hem, as I had to ensure that the front and back hem met up.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M6GMt24uYI4/V7c0mVDlIYI/AAAAAAAACDE/jKGzNNnqMBM9VPA_9k6x9GWnfBQknmetgCEw/s1600/IMG_1121.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M6GMt24uYI4/V7c0mVDlIYI/AAAAAAAACDE/jKGzNNnqMBM9VPA_9k6x9GWnfBQknmetgCEw/s640/IMG_1121.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After pinning</td></tr>
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I do really like some of the features of this top- the curved front yoke and the curved back hem. It fits ok, however, I really don't like how short it is across the front and the volume around the front. I feel that this makes me look bigger than I actually am. I haven't actually worn this yet as I don't feel that confident when I put it on.<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wrJkqYDWOn0/V7r_VL13RZI/AAAAAAAACEY/aPAsVf4RFKsT5bEyVmY63iWMh_kA4j1mwCLcB/s1600/IMG_1219.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wrJkqYDWOn0/V7r_VL13RZI/AAAAAAAACEY/aPAsVf4RFKsT5bEyVmY63iWMh_kA4j1mwCLcB/s640/IMG_1219.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I have another version of this top planned in some chambray and blue stripey cotton I have left over. I'm going to have a go at removing the gathering at the front yoke and re-designing the front hem so that it is curved in the same way as the back. Wish me luck!! Fionahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10771459560853275819noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-387178754621001381.post-86446889827617167012016-08-19T15:31:00.001+01:002016-08-19T15:31:04.800+01:00Cordelia Maternity Camisole<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Long time, no post! Motherhood is keeping me busy- I've fitted in some sewing but no time for blogging. Here's a make from my pregnancy that I've been waiting to post! </div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bvXh4W5olt0/VxoThVN3LqI/AAAAAAAAB9s/ub95GaZSn3MWXTYCoQJC_sfr2mA0fp-3ACKgB/s1600/IMG_0710.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bvXh4W5olt0/VxoThVN3LqI/AAAAAAAAB9s/ub95GaZSn3MWXTYCoQJC_sfr2mA0fp-3ACKgB/s640/IMG_0710.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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You might have seen that Zoe from 'So Zo...What do you know?' has recently released a new sewing pattern, the <a href="http://sozowhatdoyouknow.blogspot.co.uk/2016/07/cordelia-maternity-camisole-pattern-on.html" target="_blank">Cordelia Camisole Pattern</a>. I was lucky enough to be selected as a pattern tester during the final trimester of my pregnancy.<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pIqSimcEc8k/VxoUhwcCihI/AAAAAAAAB-Q/X1u41pjCKhYlKPzPlCbN7Ic1zusZfAgdACLcB/s1600/P1060698.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pIqSimcEc8k/VxoUhwcCihI/AAAAAAAAB-Q/X1u41pjCKhYlKPzPlCbN7Ic1zusZfAgdACLcB/s640/P1060698.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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The camisole uses only 1m of jersey fabric and approx 2m of fold over elastic. I made two versions. For the first I used a beautifully drapey <a href="https://www.minervacrafts.com/shop/fabric/dress-fabrics/mf-1008-m-viscose-slub-stretch-jersey-dress-fabric?colour=Silver%2BGrey" target="_blank">silver slub jersey</a> from Minerva Crafts which I paired with some silver fold over elastic by Prym. <br />
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The pdf pattern was easy to put together - I don't often use pdf patterns but this one didn't consist of too many pages. I cut a straight size 12 to accommodate my 37 week pregnancy bump.<br />
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I used a rotary cutter and tin-can weights to cut out the pieces, which helped keep this drapy jersey flat. It was very quick to cut - there were only four pieces including the optional bust support panel.<br />
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I decided to include the bust panel as the jersey was a bit see through. This has a bottom edge which is finished with fold over elastic. This was the first time I had used fold over elastic and I used a 3 step zig zag stitch which gives a nice finish. I didn't actually test it at all - I recklessly went straight for it and it worked out really well - no where near as hard as I thought! </div>
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The only problem is that because I included the bust support panel and used up some of the fold over elastic, I didn't have enough for the straps. D'oh! So unfortunately, this still lingers in my unfinished objects pile, which is a shame as I love the fabric and it fitted so nicely! <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TVOCD4N-r44/VxoTke4D69I/AAAAAAAAB-E/5UNOIdZ4LMkObEW9W6-4Luu_BNwHpO5cQCKgB/s1600/IMG_0715.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TVOCD4N-r44/VxoTke4D69I/AAAAAAAAB-E/5UNOIdZ4LMkObEW9W6-4Luu_BNwHpO5cQCKgB/s640/IMG_0715.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A pic of my 38 week bump in my half-finished camisole </td></tr>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KeECJoKvOmg/VxoTkjSkT8I/AAAAAAAAB-E/1h60_WMX_VkJr4miyCPifzw-RccrcXznACKgB/s1600/IMG_0717.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KeECJoKvOmg/VxoTkjSkT8I/AAAAAAAAB-E/1h60_WMX_VkJr4miyCPifzw-RccrcXznACKgB/s640/IMG_0717.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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So after my first attempt at the Cordelia camisole, I immediately (the same day!) began cutting out my second version. For this version, I had picked a <a href="https://www.minervacrafts.com/shop/fabric/dress-fabrics/mf-100084-stripe-print-stretch-jersey-dress-fabric-multicoloured-per-metre" target="_blank">red and blue stripy jersey</a> also from Minerva Crafts and used some red fold over elastic from the same supplier.<br />
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This was slightly harder to cut as I tried to match the stripes as best as I could. I have decide that this is my preferred method for cutting fabric, as it is so quick and accurate. Unfortunately, due to the gathers at the side of the camisole it meant that when constructed the stripes did not completely match up but was still worth attempting. </div>
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I found the construction easier second time around and this came together very quickly. I chose not to cut out the bust support panel this time, to ensure that I had enough fold over elastic. The fold over elastic straps were very easy to create and I liked the fact that I could adjust the length of them before I secured them to the back.<br />
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The fit of the camisole is good- it fits well over my bump. I would recommend using jersey with quite a bit of stretch to get the most out of your garment - this stripey jersey is not too stretchy and unfortunately didn't fit for very long, due to a rapidly growing bump. </div>
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So, if any ladies out there are expecting, or knows anyone who is, I would highly recommend the Cordelia Camisole pattern. It was so so easy to put together, uses less than 1m of fabric and only 2.5m of fold over elastic. The techniques are easy, even if you have never sewn with jersey fabric before so this is a great quick project. </div>
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I wrote this post before my baby was born, and looking back now I can't imagine being that big. It seems strange to see myself looking pregnant in pictures. My next post is also something I made pre-pregnancy. </div>
Fionahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10771459560853275819noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-387178754621001381.post-1027884616418300142016-07-25T15:16:00.003+01:002016-07-25T15:16:47.994+01:00My latest creation...<span id="goog_2059917113"></span><span id="goog_2059917114"></span>Long time, no post! I've been rather busy recently and most of May and all of June seem to have slipped by and it's now mid July. I can't say that I've no idea where the time has gone because it's all down to this little fella ...<br />
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Introducing my latest creation, baby Arthur. Arthur was born on the 16th of May at 1.11am after approximately 40 hours of labour. Yes .... 40 hours, I know!! I'll spare you the gory details but it was relatively painful and didn't quite go to plan. However, it was totally worth it and it's true what they say - you forget the pain straight away and I would definitely go through it all again.<br />
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It has taken me quite a while to recover and I finally feel more like myself. Life with a newborn has been an adjustment but I'm getting used to reduced sleep, being covered in poo/wee/sick and eating at the speed of light when he's crying!<br />
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Arthur and I enjoyed the Sewing Bee. As I can no longer watch anything past 9pm (our official bedtime) I recorded it and watched at my leisure during the day. A massive well done to Charlotte for winning, she was my favourite all along and I was also pleased to see Jade in the final as I think she has a natural instinct for sewing. There were definitely some interesting challenges in the series and it has inspired me to maybe have a go at refashioning some garments in the future.<br />
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I have a project to blog about that I made pre baby and another project currently on the go- sewing with a newborn is not impossible but tricky. So watch this space!Fionahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10771459560853275819noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-387178754621001381.post-420262465897138462016-05-11T12:55:00.000+01:002016-05-11T12:55:51.700+01:00GBSB 2016<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It's back!! I am super excited that the fourth series of <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b07c9w27" target="_blank">The Great British Sewing Bee</a> is back next week. The first episode 'basic construction' airs on Monday 16th May at 9.00pm on BBC2.<br />
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This series features a change in judges, with Patrick Grant being joined by Esme Young from Central St. Martin's. There are 10 contestants and there will be 8 episodes. The format seems to be the same, with three challenges: a construction challenge based on everyone using the same pattern, a creative challenge where contestants need to adapt an item of clothing and the made to measure challenge where contestants have to fit to a live model. <br />
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I'm very much looking forward to seeing how the contestants work and the different challenges they face. I'm going to ensure that I have this on record so I don't miss any! <br />
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<b>Anyone else looking forward to GBSB's return? </b>Fionahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10771459560853275819noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-387178754621001381.post-31463896768285131452016-05-11T12:37:00.000+01:002016-05-11T12:37:49.974+01:00Turquoise Sleeveless Blouse<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I'm still here! Baby Gibbs still hasn't made an appearance - I'm currently three days overdue, so it could happen at any time. In the mean time, I've been keeping busy with some sewing.<br />
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One of the projects that has been in my sewing queue (yes, I've got one!) for a while is a second version of my <a href="http://sewingvsknitting.blogspot.co.uk/2015/08/red-floral-sleeveless-blouse.html" target="_blank">red floral sleeveless blouse</a>. This blouse got a fair amount of wear last summer, before I became pregnant. The pattern is a version of the 40's style blouse pattern in <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Gertie-Sews-Vintage-Casual-Sportswear/dp/1617690740" target="_blank">Gertie Sews Vintage Casual</a> by Gretchen Hirsch.<br />
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I brought this gorgeous turquoise and pink floral print fabric from a trip last year to Walthamstow at the same time as the red floral fabric. It has very good drape and I always envisioned it as a sleeveless summer blouse. <br />
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Due to my current condition, I had to work slowly on this project. I actually started this during the Easter half term and then finished it last week over several days. I have been sewing a few seams, etc. and then having a rest!<br />
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I am pleased with the finished blouse. I mistakenly interfaced both the under and upper collar, but couldn't be bothered to cut a new under collar so went with it. This has resulted in a slightly stiffer collar, which I actually don't mind as it seems to hold the shape better. <br />
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The inside of this blouse is also very neat. I am becoming more confident with using bias binding to finish arm holes and love the neat finish this gives the blouse. I also paid more attention when stitching up the darts of this blouse to ensure that they aren't wonky like my previous version!!<br />
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I was unsure about my choice of buttons for this blouse. My first instinct was to go with hot pink contrasting buttons but failed to find any the right shade. I also had difficulty finding the proper shade of turquoise and ended up with this slightly lighter blue shade. I don't hate them but I'm not totally in love with them either. I guess I could change them at a later date if I find any better ones!<br />
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The only glaring worry I have about this blouse is obviously that it doesn't currently fit me! I tried it on and it fits nicely around the shoulders but not around my very, very large bump. The idea is that once I have given birth and I am beginning to get back to normal this blouse should fit nicely for the summer. Another bonus is that it is button down so should be good for nursing too! <br />
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<b>Have you started sewing for the summer?</b>Fionahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10771459560853275819noreply@blogger.com0