This is Vogue 1323. I (finally) finished. It’s not that the pattern is difficult, but it was, at least for me, more time consuming. Although I must say I spent more time on this than I had intended to. It’s been a long time since I had made anything with a “slippery” feel to the fabric. This was just a basic polyester blouse fabric. But I did do quite a bit of hand basting since it was easier to control and would be easier to remove when necessary. This pattern is rated “Average” but for anyone who wonders if they should give it a try, I say go for it! I usually shy away from patterns with this rating, but I am more interested in challenging myself. Therefore, while I wouldn’t use really expensive fabric for a first try, I would certainly give it a try. Some of the techniques in the pattern are things that I have not done before (French seams), but the instructions tell you how to do it and it’s very easy to figure out. Believe me, if I can do this, anyone should be able to. And in all things, I firmly believe that even in “failure”, you can learn a lot. I made this in a 14. That’s down a size from what I would normally have made, but it fits very well without being too big. I did have some trouble getting a decent picture that shows some detail. But I like this pattern. At some point I may try the pants that come with it.

Well I’ve completed my first project of the year. I made this Vogue cape but I think the pattern is OOP.  It’s a shame because this is such an easy thing to make. There are a few variations with this pattern. I made the one with collar and buttons in a mid-thigh length. I used a wool hounds tooth fabric I bought at JoAnn’s. The cape is unlined, but since it’s wool, it is quite warm. It’s the kind of thing I think I can get a lot of use out of.

I would recommend trying this pattern if you have it, or I’m sure there is something similar out there. It is very easy to make and it’s pretty quick to make too.

Now I’m off to plan my next sewing project!