Making The Ogden Cami

This is one of those patterns I’ve heard about since it was released. I know of so many people that love this pattern. But I never got around to making it until now. So, this post is about my experience making the Ogden cami.

This is picture above is the modified version that I made that I really like. Changes were made for me to get the look and fit I want.

The unaltered version of the top:

Above you’ll see the original version of the cami as it’s to be sewn.The front and back are lower than what I wanted for this. I also wanted to make sure that the straps would be bra-friendly. You can also see in this picture that the lining of the top is short.

Here’s how I achieved a look I really like:

shortened the straps in order to raise the neckline (probably about 3″)
widened the straps to make sure it would cover my bra straps
lengthened the lining about 3″
lengthened the top about 4″
widened the part of the cami where the straps attach

Here is a picture to show what the Ogden cami looks like with raising the straps, but keeping the lining and length of the top the same.

Ogden cami with Colette patterns Iris shorts

The top looks much better with the new length. I also love how the neckline looks with the shorter straps. Now I can see myself making more of these in different colors and patterns. This would be a useful top to have even as the seasons transition. I can wear these under a blazer.

This final version is made from a yellow and white checked lightweight cotton blend. I used the same fabric for the lining as well. It has become the perfect summer top!

If you’re unfamiliar with the pattern, you can take a look here. I bought the PDF version. It’s only a few pieces of paper to put together. I’ve been making a lot of summer tops lately.

So far this summer is becoming quite productive!

The Bleeker Sweatshirt

I got this PDF pattern from Sewing and the City. The Bleeker sweatshirt is loose and oversized with dropped shoulders and ruffle details. It is easy to sew (it took me maybe two hours total to get this done). This is a pattern that I saw and knew I liked right away. The simplicity of the style with a bit of a design detail, the ruffle, really makes this more than the average sweatshirt.

woman wearing Bleeker sewatshirt front view

The Fabric

My fabric is from Mood Fabrics and it’s a lace print sweatshirt fleece that is very soft. Although I used the same fabric for the ruffle, it is suggested to use a lighter weight fabric with sweatshirt fleece. I wanted to make the ruffle more discreet as well as use material I had on hand. It turned out fine.

woman wearing Bleeker sweatshirt back view

Because The Bleeker sweatshirt is so oversized, I actually used the finished garment size to determine which size I would make. I sized down two sizes and got a perfect fit! It’s still oversized and comfy.

Some easy changes for the Bleeker sweatshirt

The ruffle can be made from contrasting or coordinating fabric (cotton, chiffon, etc).

The sleeves can be color blocked (I think about color-blocking more now that I made this jacket).

The ruffle can be made in one layer and the edges could be serged to make a scalloped edge.

And lastly, rib knit can be added to the sleeves and/or bottom of the shirt for a different look.

Whatever the case, I definitely recommend the pattern. It’s stylish and easy to make. I’ll make another one but I’ll probably use one of the variations I stated above. The Bleeker is an easy make for beginners.

Bleeker sweatshirt front view in gray and white

This fabric is super soft. Various knits can be used to make the sweatshirt too. Click here to check the pattern out for yourselves!

Halloween Fun Sewing Project!

Sometimes, I just want to make something using a bold or fun print! I tend to sew a lot of prints and knits, so when I saw this fabric, I knew it was for me! I thought, why not stitch up some Halloween fun! The fabric in the post is from Minerva Crafts and there’s a link at the end if you’d like to check it out for yourselves. *The fabric was provided to me free of charge.

This stretch jersey knit is so easy to work with. And as soon as I saw this, I knew which pattern that I wanted to use. I used Hot Patterns #1168 Weekender Daytona Hoodie which I got around 2014-2015. This pattern is now out-of-print unfortunately. I have made this before with the short sleeve option. Late September to early October temperatures here in Maryland are pretty comfortable. Therefore, I like to make and wear pieces that can go together easily without too much fuss. I also love to make the occasional themed make for whatever holiday is coming up.

Hot Patterns 1168 hoodie with Minerva fabric

Considering the times we live in, I think making a mask (two fabric layers) to match the top is a good idea. The mask is comfortable and breathable as well.

Hot Patterns Daytona hoodie with matching mask

This design features a hooded top. The front can be closed with a zipper or made as a solid front. I made the solid front with the front pocket.

woman wearing Hot Patterns 1168 made from Minerva Halloween fabric

This is a super fun print to use to make something for yourself (or your kids). It’s a medium weight knit that’s stable enough to make the beginning knit sewer comfortable. It’s light enough to be the perfect layering piece for cooler weather. I’m wearing sweatpants in these pics, but you could certainly pair it with denim, corduroy or many other things.

I love a good, fun project to kick off a new season of sewing!

Here’s the link to get this fabulous fabric for yourself click here! As always, I encourage you to, just keep sewing! It doesn’t matter whether you’re stitching up some Halloween fun or some neon brights for that pop of color. It’s so important to enjoy yourself in what you make and in what you’re doing.

*The fabric in this post was provided to me by Minerva Crafts in exchange for a blog post.