Tag: fashion sewing

Yes, I Am Sew Brave. And You Should Be Too

That’s a funny title, but a somewhat serious topic. I want to explain why, yes I am sew brave. And you should be too. That is, if you want to improve your craft and learn new skills. Here’s the thing. More often than not, when I post a picture if something I’ve made, there will be a comment about how brave I am. So turning that into a positive (since I’m really not sure how they mean it), yes I am. Let’s dive into this topic.

Sewing What I Love

First of all, let’s understand that I’m just sewing some garments that I really love. I also like to try new things, so occasionally I will dive into a new pattern. Most often I get this comment when I have sewn, or am trying to sew, a new to me pants pattern.

Love Notions Duet Trousers

One of the things that has allowed me to improve my skill level, especially as it regards fit, is trying new patterns. If I can get a great fit on a pants pattern I’ve never tried before, then the work is worth it in my opinion. How do you learn if you actually never try? I understand that fabric can be expensive, but it’s just fabric. Leaving it on a shelf isn’t going to serve you or anyone else. What you can learn and the confidence you gain from the attempt to sew yourself something is immeasurable.

Style

Trying something new will also help you determine what your style is. If you don’t know what you like or what looks good on you, go to a store and try things on. Doing this will keep you from using that fabric you have on garments you may ultimately hate (at least on you). Or, simply try out an easy to make pattern with some inexpensive fabric. I have sewn up some trendy items before that were quick and easy. They don’t become wardrobe staples, but they can just be those fun pieces in a color you might not be sure of.

Quite often I’m told I’m sew brave when I make a bold, colorful garment. That’s what I like and that’s what looks good on me. But I found that out by trying different things and using some fabrics that I fell in love with.

Minerva make shirtdress

How You Can Be Sew Brave

For me, being “sew brave” is all about improving my skill level. I like to sew different garments because they require different skills. One of the best ways to learn is to incorporate different techniques into your garments or sewing projects.

You can also make samples. For example, I have done this when I was learning how to install invisible zippers. I cut a couple of scrap pieces of fabric, used a couple of 7″ zippers, and machine basted the zippers in. Then I removed the basting and started over again. I did this several times until I felt I knew what I was doing. The same can be done with welt pockets or any techniques that you like.

McCalls 6885

Sew…

So, yes I am sew brave. And you should be too. I believe this is the best way to improve your skill. For me sewing is a continual learning process that I enjoy. Remember, your makes don’t have to be perfect for you to be happy with the results and wear them proudly.

Angela Wolf Skinny Jeans

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.

Bleeker sweatshirt front view

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!