Sunday, February 13, 2011

Friday, February 11, 2011

Happy Valentine's Day?

This is the weekend to celebrate with your sweetie. I bet I won't get anything. What's that all about?!

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Long Awaited Review




Pattern Description:
A-line, loose-fitting in two lengths with front stitched pleats, back stitched inverted pleat, raglan sleeves with dart in three lengths and neckline variations. I chose Version B, legnth A. I'm only 5' tall.
Pattern Sizing:
8-22 Misses. I did the 16 because of ease and fullness in the bust area. I plan to wear a belt with this sweater.
Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?
Yes it did. I like mine better.
Were the instructions easy to follow?
The instructions were very easy. I changed the construction order and did the sleeve first.
What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?
I like the fact that I didn't have to do an FBA on this pattern and i also like the cowl neck. It's not to big or "overly slouchy".


Cowl neck and pleating detail (can u see it?)
Sleeve and Sweater Back pleat



Fabric Used:
I used a Pucci inspired sweater knit from Vogue Fabrics Outlet. 1.99 per yard. Sitting in my stash for two years. This year it talked to me (cursed me out for leaving it there for so long.)
Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:
No alterations but I did elminate the "interfaced" collar. Not sure what that's all about. I don't want stiff neck syndrome on my sweaters. I like them soft. It's doubled and folded down. That's more than enough support.
Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?
I plan to sew version A before it warms up with a tight little matching knit mini. I have some really nice boots that need attention. It's an easy pattern and would be great for beginners, just be patient with the sleeve details.
Conclusion:
This is a great wardrobe builder. Simple raglan sleeve cowl with pleating detail in front and back for a little dimension. My print is Pucci Mohair busy so a little dimension adds interest. The sleeves are "bubbled" like a dress so they require you cut a sleeve stay and there is elastic as well. Lookin forward to wearing this with some pinstripe olive slacks (waiting in the wings) and olive shoe booties with antique gold buckles!

Now, if I can just get the pants done. . .

Thursday, February 10, 2011

Welcome to my new BLOG!

Hello Everyone!

I guess it's about time I got it together and posted a blog! A free blog that took all night to build! Did I mention Free?

Anywhoooo... Since my website was taken down, I haven't really been able to communicate with you. Lots of you have expressed an interest in what I'm doing, wearing, making and lately cooking! That's right, I said it - COOKING!! It's a slow process but my family is still alive and kicking.(Lol) This past November I cooked Thanksgiving dinner. All by myself and even went to the grocery store and didn't freak out.




(Enough about that.)
I want to let you in on my sewing and personal "sewing" adventures. Which may be quite interesting considering that's all I do. (It's my day job). I will post as many things as possible (as time will allow) and some upcoming student work and whatever I'm feeling. So sit back and relax. I'll start with some pics of my sewing room and info on my machines.

Here is the right side of my small room. Complements of IKEA. Since I did my project with them in the past, the store holds dear memories. Met some good folks there. Oh and the furniture is cheap. I read Swedish pictogram's very well. This is where I store most of my tools, patterns and other fun things to buy. The other side of this wall is pictured above. It's my tiny little office space. (LOL!)


This is the back of the room. Where there are more things and pictures of my loved ones and some of my work. (Notice how neat and clean.) C'mon folks, it's a picture. The TV in the upper corner, a "surprise" from the hubby. I can't sew with the TV on. I don't get anything done!

"SURPRISE!"



Here is where the "Magic" happens. When and if I'm not interrupted. I have a Janome 2160 sewing machine. It's smooth an quiet which is great of "all nighters". I have Juki industrial medium/heavy weight straight stitcher, an industrial blind hemmer (not pictured) and a jacked up Singer Pro Finish serger. (feel me? - That's out the door REAL soon!). My machines are faithful and don't fail me. I also own a vintage Singer featherweight. It's pictured above in my little office space. (It workzzzzzz!) She's retired now.

Here is my fabric Closet - it goes from ceiling to floor. I'm addicted.




I'll be posting periodically and would love for you to leave comments or mail me with questions. I would luv to hear from you. Thanks for stopping by!
Carol















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