2013 Style The Stash Sew A Long

I've joined up with a group of like-minded fabric collectors for a stash sew a long. Here's the link:  stylethestashsewalong.blogspot.com

The sew a long  runs from June 1st to December 31st.   Unlike other stash busting sew- a-longs, we make no pledges about using only stash.  We make no pledges about not adding to our stash.  We make no pledges to complete certain garments according to a monthly plan. So this is a guilt free stash busting sew-a-long.  

This should be a lot of fun.  Sewing together and talking fabric, what's not to love, right?

I plan to start with a skirt (or 2).  Not sure yet which one, but here's some ideas:

 

 

Lace Knit Top

This Dress Barn top was my inspiration.








Although the finished product doesn't look anything like the pattern, I used Vogue (1261)  as my base. The design element that's the same is the hem shape.  I had used the pattern  before and love the way it fits me.

I used an ivory scroll lace for the top layer and the sleeves,  and a lightweight knit of the same color for the under layer.  Both of these came from Joann Fabrics - I used 50% coupons.

I cut a size 14, but used 3/8" seam allowances as my lace doesn't have much stretch. I also cut the sleeves a little larger.  And I made it about 1 inch longer.  The other thing I should have done was lower the armholes as they're a little tight.

I sewed the two layers of fabric together at the shoulders and sleeves, but kept them separate at the side seams & hems.

Very often, the finished garment doesn't turn out the way I envisioned it.  But this time, it actually did and I'm very happy with the results.          

Vogue 8880 Top

 





 I made view "A".





 








Peplum tops are really popular right now, so thought I'd jump on the bandwagon.

I made my usual size 14, with a few alterations.  I added 1" to the bodice length and also 1-1/2" to the skirt length.   I also added a little to the center from the waist down-more in the back than the front.  Now mine fits me like the model's on the pattern envelope.


I like the pleats at the neckline and extended shoulder/sleeves. I'm a little narrow through the shoulders and upper chest, and often have problems with necklines being too wide, but this fits perfectly.


This is a quick and easy top to make.  The view I made has only 3 pieces: a bodice front & back, plus the peplum.  You make a casing and insert elastic for the waist.






















The fabric I used is a soft cotton - I love the print.   I can see this made up a variety of fabrics  - even a stable knit would work.  I've already worn it and it's very comfortable.  I like my new summer top and be using this pattern again.  I plan to make the V-neck version too.

Good Bye to Belle

My sweet doggie, Belle, died today.  She was almost 16 years old.  She loved us and we loved her.   She will be missed so very much.

Simplicity 1622 Top

I'm finally getting around to posting something.  I've been sewing, just not taking time to get pictures and post.  I really like sewing and wearing woven tops for summer and have made several lately.  Anyway.....here's my newest creation. A simple pull-over top.

I used Simplicity 1622 and made View D.


I bought this pattern last week while they were on sale at Joann Fabrics for .99.  I actually bought it with view C (a knit top) in mind.  After looking at the pattern, I decided to try this top.  What I like most about it is the shape of the hem.  It's slightly longer on the sides, which makes it drape nicely.  I had made some knit tops in the past with this hem shape and really liked it.  I still plan to make the knit top at a later date. The pattern also includes elastic waist pants and a knit tank maxi dress.  I may try the dress.




I used a silky polyester fabric I got on clearance at Walmart last summer for $1.50 yd.  Surprisingly, it feels really nice and won't be too hot for summer wear.  And it wasn't that hard to sew, and comes out of the washer and dryer looking nice.  The way the pattern is designed, the top has extended shoulders with sleeves.  Since this is a summer top, I left off the sleeves.  The dropped shoulders made great cap sleeves.   I used my usual sizing when making this - a 12 at the neck & shoulder, 14 at the bust & waist, and 16 at the hips and the fit is perfect.  I really like the neckline on this; it's not too wide or too low; very pretty.  A cute top that's quick and easy to make. - 2 pattern pieces.   I'm sure I'll be making it again.  The only thing I would change would be to add a couple inches to the length.

Here's the back -  It looks like it's tight, it's not - the wind was just blowing.












And the side - I'm holding it in place so you can see the hemline.