Fun Skirt with Vogue 8295

I rarely make something from I fabric that’s just for fun – just because I love the fabric. I did this time! I bought this material last year and knew it would be perfect for some kind of skirt.

This is a stretch pima cotton. And I love that the print goes both directions so you can cut either way.

I used V8295 which is a full skirt (almost a circle skirt) made with only 2 pieces (waistband and skirt).

I used an invisible zipper for closure on this. The only thing that’s missing, in my opinion, are pockets. I may figure out a way to add those next time!

I encourage you to make something FUN for yourself for spring or summer (or anytime).

Life is short. Have fun sewing!

#Workoutgear Challenge Outfits

For the month of February, I’ve been working on pieces for a work out gear challenge that’s been started by the #sewmuchtalentFBgroup (any of you PeriCrafters are familiar with this). Making my own work out clothes has been on my radar for a while and I think this was the push I needed to get it done! I had made some things last year (click here) that I still wear, but I wanted more. And I had plenty of patterns to choose from.

So, I used B6295 to make these leggings.

The top, which I altered to have a hi-lo hem, is the Style Arc “Alannah” T-shirt.

For spring/summer, I made the New Look 6285 (S0547) top (it has two sets of pattern numbers) and I altered Simplicity 8268 joggers to make the shorts.

For anyone interested in the leggings, the pattern is great and easy, but I think it does run a bit large. Next time I’ll take out some of the “extra” in the pattern. I actually cut these down after putting them together. But, the side pockets are great!

I don’t think I’ve reviewed any of these patterns yet, so I’ll have to get on it soon!

Better Than Basic Black

When going through my closet a few weeks ago, I noticed that I didn’t have a black dress. I’m trying to focus this year on making/getting some basics that I can always use. I’m usually the person that realizes I need a dress for something, but I don’t have it. So, I’m trying to remedy that this year.

I made this M6886 knit dress from a black ponte knit I had in my fabric stash.

I’ve had this pattern for years (that seems to be a recurring theme this year as well). Everyone seems to love it and I had never bothered to make it.This is View E with long sleeves.

It is a great, easy pattern! I do plan on making more of these with sleeve variations.

I actually did have some trouble making the V-neck on this. It’s been a long time since I’ve done one and I just couldn’t get it right. So after about 5 tries, I finally got it, but that’s something I now know I need to practice so that I can get it to lay flat and without stretching out the neck. The directions are pretty clear, I just wasn’t getting it at first.

Many of you have this pattern and have tried it, so you know it’s a favorite. And it was just selected as one of 2016’s best on Pattern Review.

So, that’s all for now. I am on a mission to make more basics and staple pieces this year, as well as use as much of my fabric stash as I can. The journey continues…