I liked my first skirt so much I made another, this time in a brown, textured dot fabric.
I made no pattern changes. The only difference between the two skirts is the fabric. This one is a lightweight cotton shirting, and the first is a medium-weight linen blend.
The color of this skirt isn't terribly exciting, but I can dress it up with some fun tights.
Sewaholic's Renfrew Top pattern has been on my wish list for a while, and I'm so glad I've added it to my pattern library. It's a staple pattern that can be modified innumerable ways.
My measurements fall into three different sizes (8 bust - 6 waist - 2 hip), but a straight 8 works for me. I've read reviews that the pattern sizing is generous, but, for me, it's quite accurate. The 6 is too snug in my problem areas (upper bust and back), and the 8 is just right. (The fabric makes it look ill-fitting, but I swear it's not). The sleeves may be a tad long, but I like the extra length.
I did notice an error in the pattern directions: When constructing the cowl users are instructed to sew the un-notched edge with wrong sides together. This will result in an exposed seam! The diagrams show right sides together, so heed the diagrams and disregard the verbiage for this part of the step.
This heather mint fabric was also part of my Girl Charlee order. The fabric is nicer than the Striped Briar's, but it's slightly sheer, clings to my bra like Velcro, and not nearly as soft as I'd like. Where can I source high quality, super soft knits?
The Zip & Go Wristlet by Sweet Pea Totes is the first pattern I bought and made when teaching myself to sew. I've made twelve of these so far, but this is the first one I get to keep. I just love mint and orange together!
I made another Megan Nielsen Briar! This time in a wheat and coral stripe with 3/4-sleeves.
I love the fabric colors, sleeve length and pattern, but the fabric was a pain to sew. It's lightweight and clingy (like Saran Wrap), and doesn't drape well or feel as nice as my Briar Rose Tee. My twin needle/sewing machine also had trouble with the low-quality fabric.
I purchased the fabric from Girl Charlee, because I've heard rave reviews about their knits. My order included three other knit fabrics, and, thankfully, they seem thicker and easier to work with. We'll see!
Here's Tilly and the Buttons' Mathilde. I love her details: tucks, button-down back, blousy sleeves, and bateau neckline.
The downloadable pattern includes only basic instructions, but Tilly offers step-by-step construction details and photos on her blog. She also provides thorough instructions on how to shorten the sleeves, add gathers, remove the tucks, and make a dress-length version. You get a lot with your pattern purchase!
I used a lovely, autumnal cotton lawn and brown pearl snaps (idea from Make Something). I sewed a size 3 with size 1 bust darts, and the fit is just right.
I did make a few very minor modifications: sleeve cuffs have no interfacing and are sewn with 3/8-inch seams; the neckline has bias binding, no facings; and I added 1.5 inches to the blouse length.
I will definitely be making more! I have some Joel Dewberry rayon set aside for a short-sleeved, tuck-less version.
This skirt is aptly named, because I'd love to wear one every day. It's such a simple design, but well-constructed and fits to flatter.
All of Liesl's patterns teach professional dressmaking techniques. For the Explorer Vest it's bellows pockets, and for the Everyday Skirt it's how to sew flared hemlines and construct a waistband that's as beautiful on the inside as the outside - techniques I'll use from now on.
My skirt is a linen blend in dark aqua. I cut a size small with an extra large length. I made no pattern modifications, and I probably won't make any changes to future skirts either.
I like this color combination. Do you?
I also want to try Liesl's Weekend Getaway Blouse + Dress in rayon challis. The pattern's facing/placket details really interest me.
So far I've made three Wiksten Tovas and three Wiksten Tanks. I've made size adjustments for each one and have finally found my fit.
My measurements register as S for both patterns, but I find a S/M combination works best for my broad shoulders.
For the Tova: S front with M armholes and M back, sleeve and cuff. I angle the back pattern piece 1/2-inch off the center fold at the neckline (as Made by Rae does here).
For the tank: S front with M armholes and M back, same angle, and I raise the neckline by 5/8-inch.
Now that I've sorted out the Wiksten sizing, I see myself making several more tanks and Tovas, some with sleeve, placket, and hemline modifications. But the original Tova may always be my favorite.
I love this flannel one!
