Simplicity 2341 Fall Jacket

I just finished this the other day. It’s my first attempt at making a garment out of faux leather (I love that term – so much better than “pleather”). Anyway, I bought this textured material from Fabric.com. It’s very soft and easy to work with. I did re-read a couple of articles I had about working with leather (real or faux) because I wanted to know the best way to make the pattern markings, etc. I also used the non-stick foot that came with my sewing machine so I didn’t have to worry about skipped stitches.

This actually went together much faster than I had expected. I made this in View A. It’s an edgier look for me, but that’s what I wanted to challenge myself with this time.

This was also the first time I had used a separating zipper. Which was actually easier than a regular zipper. I made no adjustments to the pattern. Just a note here: I did use the rotary cutter for the jacket pieces which made cutting this out quick and easy.

Easy Tunic

I made this New Look 6051 about a week ago. It’s one of those Project Runway Workroom patterns. It is really easy and quick to put together. I did add about 3″ to the length. I made View A using a poly blend material. I figure that I can wear this as is or with leggings. It’s a great casual top that can make you look put together, even if you’re not!

Maybe my last summer project…

I made McCall’s 6747. I really liked the easy, relaxed style for summer especially. I made this in View B. When I bought the pattern, the only size available at the store was a large. I didn’t think it would be a problem since the measurements are compatible to mine. I should have gotten a medium. What I ended up doing was cutting the side seams down to about a medium (or smaller) once I tried it on. I removed about an inch from each side. This was easy enough to do, but I think it’s just easier to buy the right size from the beginning. I also took in the back seam about 3/4″. I re-sized the sleeves to fit really well. I should have cut the neck band down more, though, because I think it’s not supposed to fit as loose at the neck as it does. Live and learn.

With all that being said, I do like the fit and feel of the dress. I show it with a belt since I just wanted a more fitted feel, but it can be worn with or without a belt.

So now I think it’s time for me to start working on some early Fall projects. I do have big plans, but we’ll see how much I can get done.