Kicking some goals - finally!

After my decidedly whingey little post last week (thanks for the commiserative thoughts BTW) I've had a better week all round thanks to the speed and stretchiness of knits. My comforting stripey dolman tee is fab, and has been worn several times already - always a good sign! It's yet another incarnation of the Burda Dolman tee, tweaked in the length, sleeve length and neckline finish to suit me.



I've also recently made another version of Simplicity 2451. My first version hasn't fared well - the denim was too lightweight and, sadly, started to split at the seams, especially the back seam. This time I chose a much sturdier denim with a tiny amount of elastane, and I think that's really made the difference this time (I also interfaced the entire back seam rather than just the zip insertion section). I was in desperate need for a summer denim skirt, so made this one a little longer. I think I've already mentioned I made a terrible (unblogged and now at op-shop) version of a denim Kelly skirt and have come to the conclusion that this style of skirt just isn't for me - the pleats add way too much bulk over my hips (in fact I'm happy to give it away if anyone wants it - I was fortunate enough to win it in a giveway from Megan herself, so I should pass the love on). The other reason I love this skirt is that it can be completely clean finished inside when one is, sniff, sans overlocker. I cut the back seam on the selvidge, frenched the pockets and finished the side seams in bias, so whilst slightly crazy on the inside it is very neat which makes me happy. More winter versions will definitely be in my future, just versions with a little stretch in them. I really love the yoke on this skirt - it fits me perfectly and and the low pleats don't add ab bulk.




I had to make a similar adjustment where I needed a bit more room over my thighs, but otherwise the fit is splendid and I've worn it many times already (and can see it being worn throughout the cold months too). I can't remember where I read this tip a while ago (maybe on Lladybird's blog) but when adjusting side seams after a fitting, to make sure they are symmetrical it's useful to stitch the first seam, then pin the two together, with pins running along the new seam line, mark that line with a marker and use that to stitch the other side:

Pin the two sides on top of each other, with the pins on the new stitching line


Flip over to the second side, mark the pin line with chalk

Voila - matching seam lines!

The denim for my skirt was from Darn Cheap - I love that slightly cross hatch appearance to it, it's a bit different to standard denim. My super awesome wide stripe knit was from the Clear It store in Brunswick Street, Fitzroy, (often referred to as the Alannah Hill factory shop). It's a Gorman fabric - this store clears excess Dangerfield, Alannah Hill, Gorman and Princess Highway clothing, plus a few other brands. Upstairs they have a small but fabulous fabric selection manufactured for these clothing brands - lots of gorgeous frou-frou fabrics, linings, wool suitings, a few knits and other random fabrics all at very reasonable prices. This knit was $12/m, and is 1.8m wide! I only bought a metre (which was all used in this make due to the dolman sleeves), but I couldn't resist going back and getting more for another stripey project - one cannot afford to leave behind fab stripes like these.

My other finished project for the week is the Tessuti Mandy Boat tee, a free download found here. I really just made it up because I want to alter it to make a proper batwing top in the future, a bit like the Named Blair Batwing, but I actually really quite like it as is, surprisingly.



I say surprisingly, because I do tend to prefer more fitted tops. This pattern is one size fits all, and is very very roomy in most areas. I ended up folding out 1 inch of width for both the front and back pattern pieces (so 2 inches front and back total) about half way along the shoulder section. I kind of wish I'd done it on the neckline though as it is super wide - gorgeous but very wide. Next time. I also shortened the hem by 3 inches, not the 5/8 inch as suggested in the pattern - it would have been a mumu! The sleeves (and neckline) are my favourite parts of this top, but they are surprisingly snug - I wouldn't describe my upper arms as particularly beefy - so take care with this pattern if you do have generous upper arms! The pattern specifically states this is a top to be made on a serger/overlocker, but pfft! to that - it's fine on a regular machine.


I used some fabric I purchased at Mood last year - a lovely pale blue and grey spot crinkly cotton knit. I'd gone a bit cold on it actually, so I'm rather pleased that a pattern and a fabric I wasn't head over heels for have combined to be something rather lovely......




I've also been brave enough this week to start work on my dress for my dear friend's wedding, in just over 2 weeks. I've decided to use the emerald silk jersey I purchased last year in New York, and after a quick muslin on the weekend I summoned up the courage to chop into it. Thus far no weeping.  More on that project down the track.....


So that's about it for the moment - a couple more fun projects in the pipeworks, and rather excitingly am actually making head way into reducing my stash.....

Finally, the winner of my mens Alohawear shirt pattern is (from a dramatic pool of 3 entrants) Ono! You should go and check out her gorgeous Alabam Chanin headbands. Ono - I'll be in touch re your postal details.

And lovely ladies, don't forget let me know in the comments if you'd like the Kelly Skirt pattern - I'll decide on that one in a week or so too...















Comments

  1. What great separates! - I recently did a lightweight denim version of Simplicity 2451 as well and am having exactly the same issue with the seams! Such a disappointment as it fits so well without any alterations. I may do as you have with a heavier weight denim. Both the tops are lovely - am loving the striped one especially. All the best for your dress - looking forward to seeing what you make....And count me in for the Kelly skirt pattern giveaway, I'd be interested to try this one.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks Lexi - definitely try some heavier fabric, and maybe with a little stretch, maybe 3% or so....it's such a good pattern. I'll pop you in the Kelly draw - good luck - I'm sure you'd make a gorgeous one if you won it!

      Delete
  2. ooo, I like that skirt. I've wondered about the Kelly skirt pattern, too. I'd love to try it if you decide to give it away.

    ReplyDelete
  3. I too put my hand up for the Kelly skirt, pretty please.
    I love clear it, once I got silk fabric for $12 pm there was matching trims too. The dress was down stairs on sale for $240. It was such a score.
    I have to try the boat neck tee, looks super comfy.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. That's awesome! To be honest I get so overwhelmed by the sheer amount of clothing in there I just walk straight past it all now. It reminds me of a big fancy op shop - crowded, full of 20 something hipsters but full of treasures! I'll add you to the Kelly list! Thanks Kat!

      Delete
  4. I love your new skirt, and I applaud you for knowing what does and doesn’t work for you!
    I’ve been wanting the Kelly skirt for a long time now, and haven’t bought it yet because I’m still somewhat afraid of the button holes I’d have to make for it. If I won it, I’d have to get over my fears, right? That would help!
    Thanks for giving the pattern away!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks Jana! Yes all those button holes are daunting but you're limiting yourself so much if you don't perfect them! Although having said that the Kelly would look great with snaps instead! Good lick!

      Delete
  5. That skirt has been on my "to do" for ages. I even have a muslin I sewed a year ago and saved to look at fit, and not you're making me want to sew it up for real! All your knit tops are just lovely and so practical (and thanks for the link to the Tesusti top)... and those cool sandals!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Oh Andrea you should make it up! I know the Big 4 companies don't always get it right, but this is one of the best patterns I've used in terms of drafting and sizing. It comes together perfectly. You'd look great in it. I love mine, I feel so chic in it. Btw the sandals are from Camper!

      Delete
  6. Yay knits! I particularly like your dolman/skirt outfit. They belong together! I support you going back for more stripes - why are the good ones so hard to find?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks Morgan - it was the most enormous roll, and when I went back it was nearly gone - I had a terrible moment there was none left!

      Delete
  7. I'm glad you had a successful sewing week! I'd also be interested in the Kelly pattern :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks Lauren - so refreshing to feel positive about it again! I'll add you to the list - good luck!

      Delete
  8. Very nice skirt, looks fab on you. I'd like to give the Kelly skirt pattern a go if you decided give it away, I have been looking at it a few times already, but unfortunately never got around to buying it. I don't know why, because I actually think It would really suit me.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks Ellen! Good luck, your names in the pot!

      Delete
  9. love this outfit, and i think you totally scored with that knit fabric! I'm sewing a lot of knits lately but find good ones a bit thin on the ground in Aus?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks Rebecca! I agree it can be hard. I've pretty much decided never to buy them online without samples, and I try to only buy cotton with a little Lycra or pure wool... It's hard because quality really varies - so I say snap up good quality knits when you find them! The Fabric store in Melbourne has beautiful knits and I'm pretty sure they've a store in Brisbane....

      Delete
  10. Your skirt looks great! I really need to add a denim skirt to my wardrobe - you've pushed me along :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks Bec! It was a serious gap that had to be filled!

      Delete
  11. I love the skirt, I also have this pattern, it's lovely to see how it looks in denim - I need more basic denim skirts! :D

    ReplyDelete
  12. Oh, your knits are inspiring! That striped dolman is fabulous :) I'd never heard of Clear It - it's definitely on the list for the next Melbourne fabric shop though - thank you!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks Danielle - it's really close to the Fabric shop, on brunswick street. A total find as far as I'm concerned!

      Delete
  13. Wow! Three fantastic makes! I'm a bit jealous of your 2451 skirt - I loved the pattern but when I tried it, it was all wrong for my shape. And I do believe I will be "inspired" by your stripey dolman - i.e. I feel a copy coming on!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks Gail, that's a shame, I'm sure you'd make a fabulous leopard print one if it suited you! Please do copy - boldly and shamelessly! :)

      Delete
  14. Ahhhh, looks so comfy and sleek! I can see why it's already been worn numerous times already!!

    ReplyDelete

Post a Comment