A very old (but classic) pattern…

A couple of weeks ago, I decided I would make a gift for my husband for his birthday. I chose to make him a pair of pj (pajama) pants. I chose a reversible shirting fabric that I found a Jo-Ann’s.

It has a nice check pattern on one side, while the solid side is sort of a chambray-type look. This is a nice, light-weight fabric that I thought would be good for Springtime.

The pattern I used I’ve probably had since about 1990. The year on the pattern envelope says 1989. Anyway, I had never cut into it in all these years. I had actually bought this pattern because I liked the robes and I had always intended to make one for myself. I made the robes, but not with this pattern.

So, I decided to use this for the pants for my husband.

These have a fly front (which was easy to make). I used snaps for the closure.

So, while I am all about keeping organized and getting rid of things that I don’t use or need, occasionally I find it worthwhile to hang on to those classics that can’t be found anymore, like this pattern.

An easy project and a happy husband. It’s all good!

Happy sewing!

Burda Style Trousers 02-2015 #132

Like I said before, I love to challenge myself. So along with some other sewing challenges, I added my self to the Burda challenge where you make something from the magazine for that month each month. This time around, I chose these pants. The only “problem” is that this was a “plus-size” pattern. Well, Burda’s plus size isn’t that much different from my regular size, so I thought I’d give it a try. I traced the pattern but did not add any seam allowance.

I made a muslin and decided it needed a center back seam adjustment, so I added 1 inch there. I used a regular 5/8 inch seam allowance when sewing.



They do have a loose fit (they’re supposed to). I could take in the front crotch area a little bit next time. But overall, I’m very pleased.

 
I usually see things in the magazine that I would like to try, but I never have the nerve to give it a shot. So this has helped me overcome some of my “fears”!
 
I also like the pocket detail of these pants. Functional side pockets and gusseted pockets just add a little more style to an elastic-waist pant.
 
 



By the way, I only have the shirt tucked in so you can see the details on the pants. Otherwise, I would not wear it this way.

Ahh, that’s more like it!

Vogue 8747 blouse

This is called a “basic design” pattern. It’s a simple, stylish blouse with some design elements (gathers at the bust) that makes it more than just basic. It has a variety of neckline options as well as sleeve options. I made View C which has 3/4 sleeves and a collar.

I did add an extra button on top.

This is a cheetah print fabric that I bought probably a year ago from JoAnn’s. I don’t think I’ve ever made anything with animal print before. But I like it. This is the kind of thing I can see myself making again in various ways.

Until next time… hopefully sooner than later if I can get my act together! Happy sewing everyone!