tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30586779848300192632024-03-05T07:24:23.597+11:00The Tall MamaSharing my passion for sewing ALL the things.
Lover of handwoven & ethically made fabrics.
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10481989720779600373noreply@blogger.comBlogger93125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3058677984830019263.post-23748126565415600662019-03-01T14:24:00.002+11:002019-03-01T14:24:48.450+11:00Hippo Hobo Backpack Hack<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Hello!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When I recently found myself needing to use crutches, I realized that I didn't have a cute backpack. I've made plenty of handbags, totes, zipper pouches etc but never a backpack!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I couldn't find a pattern that I really loved, so I decided to hack my Hippo Hobo pattern by <a href="http://www.emkiedesigns.com/" target="_blank">Emkie Designs</a> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Here are the changes I made:</span><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I added 10cm (4 inches) to the length of the bag (remember to add to exterior fabric and lining!) and omitted the exterior pockets.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I added a top handle, attached between the top flap and back panel so I could hang my backpack. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I added straps, also attached between the top flap and back panel. I made my straps the length of my fabric width and 10cm wide. I then sewed a fabric tube and inserted a strip of fleece lining to give it some substance before top stitching the straps to hold it in place.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I placed my straps 6 inches apart, but that was just personal preference.</span></li>
</ul>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I didn't have any adjustable strap sliders on hand (and wanted to finish my backpack ASAP!) so I knotted my straps to the D-rings, that way they are still adjustable for when one of my daughters want to borrow my backpack. I would recommend using the adjustable strap sliders!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For my fabrics, I used quilting cotton (which I interfaced) for the main body and rigid denim for the base and accents. I loved the selvedge edge of the denim, so I used it as a feature on the top handle and the closures. For the lining of my bag I used a polka dot cotton. You can see a peak of the lining on the sides this bag, so I cut 5 cm off the top of my lining pieces and added a 5.5 cm piece of the main body fabric.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJMVkQQueOsAbGASMrIEvbGoMNh95bSU4myTGAzX7d4QWgDlgiBtsynzNyjZLSwcrJdEapBDGIxWzn1dpT3hEJd4E0wmguIBZz41eGCfHcGcZ7B0reSRpjDDQfclhvZnTeDEAWvfWTd6k/s1600/20190301_120701.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJMVkQQueOsAbGASMrIEvbGoMNh95bSU4myTGAzX7d4QWgDlgiBtsynzNyjZLSwcrJdEapBDGIxWzn1dpT3hEJd4E0wmguIBZz41eGCfHcGcZ7B0reSRpjDDQfclhvZnTeDEAWvfWTd6k/s320/20190301_120701.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My rose gold swivel clip is available from <a href="http://whosayssew.com/">WhoSaysSew.com</a> Pretty hardware makes such a difference to your makes!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1RtiuAyYym2TT8crahddChKjdF7Wd2_NAWkr0sAyCrc74hZWQS5v99HCwz8a6h1f2EP2jdpyJ8hObcgnzSAITs3PJRxNwSvdeiFgRVrQFjvKAQ_yJqOAxzqPzDghGiGuUufKEe7W930E/s1600/20190301_125130.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1RtiuAyYym2TT8crahddChKjdF7Wd2_NAWkr0sAyCrc74hZWQS5v99HCwz8a6h1f2EP2jdpyJ8hObcgnzSAITs3PJRxNwSvdeiFgRVrQFjvKAQ_yJqOAxzqPzDghGiGuUufKEe7W930E/s320/20190301_125130.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ4-ixj7fmfK58lfO53ToilxLUBhDAVDnXSg1f433XbQ8eDmQ0TkuOJhXYcslwdfSRcH_soPO5vdISCln5rGPwhXy_g3PN2qCHooUMOwxWM6wNh-rYUZvyX19B56a4e9cySptcmzR6t5I/s1600/bkpk1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ4-ixj7fmfK58lfO53ToilxLUBhDAVDnXSg1f433XbQ8eDmQ0TkuOJhXYcslwdfSRcH_soPO5vdISCln5rGPwhXy_g3PN2qCHooUMOwxWM6wNh-rYUZvyX19B56a4e9cySptcmzR6t5I/s320/bkpk1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Happy Sewing!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">xox Allison</span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10481989720779600373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3058677984830019263.post-70331253159358234052018-10-09T18:56:00.000+11:002018-10-09T18:56:20.902+11:00Fall In Love Cardigan / fabric Tetris mastery!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIZbMso7ru4hm7PyVih8OkclRN_NCzER7bj_YVNZSt6U5xrB1aOG1dtjfv6vDsAqZWEMWt_IhRBIDR9ch4eFbyGMQ1MhV67iFxqfPudnZPHWooAQJe9qX_Ha9yFLdSdPMvFbCJNyF4FTM/s1600/cardi1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1597" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIZbMso7ru4hm7PyVih8OkclRN_NCzER7bj_YVNZSt6U5xrB1aOG1dtjfv6vDsAqZWEMWt_IhRBIDR9ch4eFbyGMQ1MhV67iFxqfPudnZPHWooAQJe9qX_Ha9yFLdSdPMvFbCJNyF4FTM/s320/cardi1.jpg" width="319" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Hello!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">You know when you have the perfect vision for a make? Pattern and fabric which are a match made in heaven...and nothing is going to stand in your way!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">That was me with this knit fabric from <a href="http://www.hawthornesupplyco.com/" target="_blank">Hawthorne Supply Co</a>. The fabric was actually leftovers from a make I was commissioned to sew for someone else, but I knew it would make a divine <a href="http://www.sewtogrow.com.au/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Fall In Love Cardigan</span> </a>(pattern by<span style="color: blue;"> Sew To Grow</span>) </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">To make it happen I tapped in to all those <strike>wasted</strike> years playing Tetris! Naturally, I had to consider grain and stretch but by being willing to add extra seams and forsake pattern matching it was possible. For example, the neck band of this pattern is 2 pieces which join in a seam at the back of the neck. However my version has a 3 piece band and it was very lucky that my neck band seams matched the shoulder seams, making it look intentional.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I really had to get creative on the sleeves. I didn't have enough fabric for long sleeves, so was happy to go with the 3/4 sleeve option on the pattern. To achieve the 3/4 sleeves I had to add large cuffs to my sleeves, which is something I like to do anyway. I think longer sleeves on knit garments look much nicer with a cuff than just a hem. However, I didn't have enough fabric to cut 2 sleeves the same length so 1 of my sleeves has an extra seam at the elbow. Fortunately the pretty floral design disguises it well and there is even some unintentional pattern matching going on!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The original pattern has a waist tie...I didn't have any fabric left to make one, but am happy with it just as it is!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Fall In Love Cardigan (by Sew To Grow) is a pattern I have made twice before and absolutely love. It is a fast and easy make and is effortless styling for all seasons. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Moral of the story is: when you really love a fabric, you can make marvelous things happen! This cardi is perfect for layering and for warmer months. Remember, the fabric requirements on a pattern are just a guide!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For reference: I made size xs and added 12cm in length.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Happy Sewing!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">xox Allison </span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10481989720779600373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3058677984830019263.post-25493099293766072792018-08-25T09:26:00.000+10:002018-08-25T09:28:39.058+10:00Introducing Honour Handmade Fabrics<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Hello!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I've always been passionate about ethically made fabric (and clothing). That's part of my motivation for sewing, not supporting fast fashion and unethical manufacturing practices. I also don't like buying fabric of suspect or unknown origins...it's just fast fashion by the metre! I always try to seek out fabrics made in countries with fair work practices or fabric which is handmade and purchased from the weavers.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Two years ago, when I was in Bali, I saw a woman sitting & weaving fabric at loom. It was mesmerizing! Naturally, I bought a few metres of fabric! On that same trip I met the owners/patrons of <a href="http://www.threadsoflife.com/" target="_blank">Threads of Life Bali,</a> a shop and organization which supports traditional textile manufacture. An art which is diminishing rapidly as young women don't want to learn the art of weaving as they can earn a better living in more modern occupations. Traditionally men do the farming, growing the cotton and dye plants and the women weave. Textile production sustains and provides work for all members of the family and is being lost. That stayed very close to my heart for the past 2 years and I found myself wondering if I could do something to help support the handwoven textile industry in Bali.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Last month I traveled back to Bali with my little family. With the assistance of a friend who lives in Bali I was able to find handwoven fabrics which were suitable for sewing with. These beautiful handwoven 100% cotton Ikat and plain fabrics are just amazing. AMAZING! The detail and repeats in the Ikat look like they must have been done by machine, but no. They are expertly woven by kind & shy women who have worked at the looms for most of their lives. Each day they gather and chat while they weave with the clicking of the looms a constant rhythm in the background.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">With the assistance of my friend as translator I purchased some beautiful Ikat and plain fabrics. To call them "plain" doesn't do them justice! Most have different coloured warp and weft threads which gives the cottons almost a shot silk appearance. As the fabrics are handwoven they are a slightly looser weave than machine made fabrics, which makes them so soft with a slight drape. The best part is that they get even softer with washing! Of course, handwoven fabric has to be carefully cared for (cold delicate wash, and I wouldn't put it in the dryer).</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">To be making something with my hands which has been handmade by someone else is just so appealing to me. It feels even more special!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">It felt really good to know that by purchasing this handwoven fabric I was helping these weavers provide for their families. I was honouring their craftsmanship with my purchase. Which got me thinking...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i>Maybe I could help?</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So I went back and bought more fabric! My thought was that if I am so in love with these fabrics, maybe some of my wonderful sewing community would be too. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This fabric is unique and unlike anything else I've seen for sale. I've only ever seen Ikats with 2 colours for sale online, these are much more complex with 4 or more colours. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">To start, I've opened an <span style="color: blue;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/au/shop/HonourHandmadeFabric" target="_blank">etsy shop</a> (<a href="https://www.etsy.com/au/shop/HonourHandmadeFabric" target="_blank">search for HonourHandmadeFabric</a>)</span> and will list the fabrics I have for sale (I will ship worldwide). Let me tell you, the struggle is real to part with them as I love them all!!! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">My hope for <a href="https://www.etsy.com/au/shop/HonourHandmadeFabric" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Honour Handmade Fabric</span></a> is that I will be able to grow it into something meaningful. Ideally, I would love to work with the weavers in Bali on a large scale, not only providing income but being able to assist with social support for the women which is often lacking (education, healthcare, childcare). I would love to make the art of handweaving fabric sustainable for these women and encourage younger women to learn so the skills are not lost with the passing of the older generations. I want to be able to support my family (as many of you know, my Hubs underwent his 2nd surgery this year to remove another brain tumour) and the families of the weavers. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Of course, these are lofty goals. A lot of people, whose advice I value, say you have to have a big vision for your business!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">But from little things, big things grow! I sincerely believe that the small seeds of passion that are planted in our hearts are there for a reason, if we choose to act on them. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I hope you love these fabrics as much as I do!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">xox Allison</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/au/shop/HonourHandmadeFabric">https://www.etsy.com/au/shop/HonourHandmadeFabric</a></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10481989720779600373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3058677984830019263.post-25691107691423981452018-07-12T13:34:00.001+10:002018-07-13T08:35:06.992+10:00Handmade Fabrics; Supporting traditional textile making<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><i>This fabric was gifted to me by The Delhi Store. My love for this fabric is real, and not sponsored!</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">As a maker, I value handmade.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So many fabrics are mass produced that I feel like I'm falling into the "fast fashion" trap when I buy them, although I am making my garments I still wonder "who made my fabric"?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">When I was contacted by <a href="https://www.etsy.com/au/shop/theDelhiStore" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">The Delhi Store</span></a> (soon to be launched as <a href="http://www.fabricsandnotions.com/" target="_blank">Fabrics & Notions</a> website) I was thrilled!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Their fabrics are sourced directly from the Artisans across India and are all handmade. There is something so special about sewing with handmade fabric! To know I'm creating with my hands, with something from the hands of another maker gives me all the good feels!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Here is some info from the owner of <a href="https://www.etsy.com/au/shop/theDelhiStore" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">The Delhi Store</span></a>:</span><br />
<br />
<span id="docs-internal-guid-1cfbbcc0-8c5d-5547-4cb5-4b9becfcb002"><i><span style="font-family: "arial"; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Eclectic collection of handloom fabrics, hand block printed fabrics and vintage sarees.</span></span><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br class="kix-line-break" /></span><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br class="kix-line-break" /></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: "arial"; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I've been fascinated with textiles for as long as I can remember. As a little girl, I was in awe of my granny's and mother's beautiful saris. I remember, that once my grandma gave me an old blue silk georgette saree to play with, that had beautiful metallic dots all over, and I used it as a canopy over a small tree, and imagined it was a beautiful night sky full of bright, little stars. </span><span style="font-family: "arial"; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br class="kix-line-break" /></span><span style="font-family: "arial"; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br class="kix-line-break" /></span><span style="font-family: "arial"; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">After completing college and working in IT education for a while I left my job as I wasn't enjoying it much. I have always been the creative type and an admirer of handicrafts of all sorts. </span><span style="font-family: "arial"; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br class="kix-line-break" /></span><span style="font-family: "arial"; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I am especially drawn to the centuries old art of making hand printed, handwoven, hand embroidered textiles. </span></span></i></span><br />
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: "arial"; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br class="kix-line-break" /></span><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "arial";"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Within India, there are so many types of weaving, printing and embroidery techniques that are </span><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">practiced</span><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">. Sadly, these techniques are dying a slow death, as the artisans don't get what they deserve for their hard work.This is my small endeavour to save these intriguing techniques from vanishing completely.</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "arial"; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br class="kix-line-break" /></span><span style="font-family: "arial"; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br class="kix-line-break" /></span><span style="font-family: "arial"; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">You might get such fabrics much cheaper elsewhere but think before you buy; are you contributing to sweatshop practices?</span></span></i><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Isn't that inspiring?!!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh64OXzOZiQaGRaxUpCWmcK8bTo4hHS-PtPjksJpityM4COd-Iy9SPYQPVyZr-dULXqiQbJezm88HDF-Vr4TEUwNqgnyTWH3huDqE9cXYCZ4QVUKr_kF6rhcaLvDCjpsJeERn6-goloLl8/s1600/DelhiStore1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="798" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh64OXzOZiQaGRaxUpCWmcK8bTo4hHS-PtPjksJpityM4COd-Iy9SPYQPVyZr-dULXqiQbJezm88HDF-Vr4TEUwNqgnyTWH3huDqE9cXYCZ4QVUKr_kF6rhcaLvDCjpsJeERn6-goloLl8/s320/DelhiStore1.jpg" width="159" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">With the beautiful cotton chambray I was gifted I made a self drafted elastic waisted midi skirt (with pockets I copied from an 80's McCalls pattern and use whenever I can!!). The top I made is the top from the<span style="color: blue;"> </span></span><a href="https://designerstitch.com/shop/kate-vintage-tea-dress/" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Kate Tea Dress by Designer Stitch</span></a><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">. This dress pattern also gives you the options of making separates</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">, which I think is awesome! I added 5cm to the top length for my height. </span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisz2hbP8K3pl51oC1aXNDqzOoGqAQyY4bTv_lZOj6pQNnbyJqI1EaPmpERbk8gbAQoqiXCkzKv-tqqDuIoF_M0aQMxrzItXi97tndI8rmJQfhRZbTqMdLMplA07GHaqrOGhHM5fA9nId8/s1600/delhistore3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisz2hbP8K3pl51oC1aXNDqzOoGqAQyY4bTv_lZOj6pQNnbyJqI1EaPmpERbk8gbAQoqiXCkzKv-tqqDuIoF_M0aQMxrzItXi97tndI8rmJQfhRZbTqMdLMplA07GHaqrOGhHM5fA9nId8/s200/delhistore3.jpg" width="150" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The fabric is beautiful quality; much better quality than the price would suggest! Handmade fabric always has slight irregularities, however it's part of its charm. This fabric is lightweight, but not sheer, with great drape. It will be perfect for summer!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghgf0KYxTcAmn3Opvw84cbfyGg6uYb7RSNJQksisW_TQorqpSYG2yU_Ln5sbAAG4oFi3_PWOcS4mi5XVjKkJ9pBkcyAbfsc_147T4VYI0NycsCSNEFUnKSBfbrHiY0k3H39HZW2vb3X6I/s1600/delhistore2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="961" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghgf0KYxTcAmn3Opvw84cbfyGg6uYb7RSNJQksisW_TQorqpSYG2yU_Ln5sbAAG4oFi3_PWOcS4mi5XVjKkJ9pBkcyAbfsc_147T4VYI0NycsCSNEFUnKSBfbrHiY0k3H39HZW2vb3X6I/s320/delhistore2.jpg" width="192" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I used some decorative stitches around the neckline of my top (you can read more about that soon on the <a href="http://www.husqvarnaviking.com/en-AU/" target="_blank">Husqvarna Viking Australia blog</a>). I'm still having so much fun with my Designer Jade 35 machine! I love that it feels like a machine I won't "outgrow" as I'm always discovering new stitches!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">If you follow me on IG you'll know that I've just come back from Bali. I was SO inspired by and impressed with the skills of the Balinese textile Artisans. I was lucky enough to see cotton being dyed and to watch hand weaving which was truly hypnotic! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Beautifully woven plains, breathtaking Ikat's and dreamy batik fabrics are all made on the island of Bali. Sadly, the traditional textile industry is diminishing due to industrialization. Machine made fabrics are faster, cheaper and can be made in larger quantities. Young people are not learning the textile arts from their elders because they can't make a living from it. I was really touched by that fact, and it has been on my heart to do what I can to help support these beautiful people and their amazing skills and traditions. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I'm proud to be a maker, supporting other makers!</span><br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10481989720779600373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3058677984830019263.post-62213809630647133362018-05-28T05:58:00.000+10:002018-05-28T05:58:15.916+10:00Matilda Shirt Dress by Megan Neilsen<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Hello!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">It was love at first sight with the <a href="https://megannielsen.com/collections/dresses/products/matilda" target="_blank">Matilda Shirt Dress by Megan Neilsen.</a> I bought it right away, glued together & cut out the pdf (yes, I prefer glue to tape. It's a controversial divide in the pdf pattern community!!!) and then it sat in my sewing room. I even had the perfect fabric for it in my stash!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">At the time I was using a vintage machine, which meant manual buttonholes. Try as I might, my buttonholes were always different sizes which made me crazy!! You can read more about my experience with my new Designer Jade 35 machine over on the <a href="http://www.husqvarnaviking.com/en-AU/Be-Inspired/Blog/May-2018/A-newfound-love-affair-with-buttonholes" target="_blank">Husqvarna Viking Australia</a> blog.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">To make this pattern fit me, I added 2.5cm to the bodice length (may do slightly less next time) and 10cm to the skirt length. I graded between XS & S sizes too.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The dress has a lot of pieces, but the instructions are really clear and easy to follow (I actually followed them!). I love the fit of the dress which makes me want to try more of Megan Neilsen's patterns! I like that the waistband and yoke are lined and don't get me started on those great skirt pockets...love!!!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The shape of the skirt is really great too, swishy without being too much of a fabric hog! I find that the buttons can pull when you sit in straighter shirt dresses, but that doesn't happen with this skirt. All in all, this is a shirt dress that I'm really happy with!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">It is a pattern I'll make again, perhaps I'll try adding sleeves for cooler weather. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3x7WWAtypR2tTDl3Jezv1HJ8yV73q-XLUv5_hNqZD8pjEu12rCDvt1gtQJydn91evYlVO5ir99vNGgQjPs_17i1F2rkJ5AIEeh-pLXF7WYTmPpjP_U34Rl9jRGu8hNdRAdQ4Qv_XaFgs/s1600/20180206_160527.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1231" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3x7WWAtypR2tTDl3Jezv1HJ8yV73q-XLUv5_hNqZD8pjEu12rCDvt1gtQJydn91evYlVO5ir99vNGgQjPs_17i1F2rkJ5AIEeh-pLXF7WYTmPpjP_U34Rl9jRGu8hNdRAdQ4Qv_XaFgs/s400/20180206_160527.jpg" width="307" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqqqienQ7KA3X9YE6ChFD2hCRwa5YFXmSVpjBm0x12lW6Zzt33_RJZ-l7F0emesccQ4WR7elrCkW2_RQGt5BE3osaTrky3XkUuaOn-YJhZD38SYzsjSdM72n06wsdpKJApKZ1Is0D3N54/s1600/20180206_160318.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1047" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqqqienQ7KA3X9YE6ChFD2hCRwa5YFXmSVpjBm0x12lW6Zzt33_RJZ-l7F0emesccQ4WR7elrCkW2_RQGt5BE3osaTrky3XkUuaOn-YJhZD38SYzsjSdM72n06wsdpKJApKZ1Is0D3N54/s400/20180206_160318.jpg" width="261" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Happy Sewing!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">xox Allison</span><br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10481989720779600373noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3058677984830019263.post-13263054428134383372018-05-20T14:13:00.000+10:002018-05-20T14:13:18.431+10:00My first 6 months with a computerized machine<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Hello!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I've had a number of questions about my machine, the <a href="http://www.husqvarnaviking.com/en-AU/Machines/DESIGNER-JADE-35" target="_blank"><span style="color: lime;">Designer Jade 35</span></a> from Husqvarna Viking, so I thought I'd write a post with my impressions and experience thus far.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">First up, let me say that I am a blogger for Husqvarna Viking which I how I came to be the proud owner of this machine. However, my opinions are honest. This isn't a sales pitch!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Before owning the<span style="color: lime;"> <a href="http://www.husqvarnaviking.com/en-AU/Machines/DESIGNER-JADE-35" target="_blank"><span style="color: lime;">Designer Jade 35</span></a></span> (a sewing and embroidery machine) all of my sewing was done on a 1976 Bernina. When I was taking Textiles and Design in high school, we didn't use computerized machines. Either they weren't around (it was the late 80's/early 90's) or they would have been WAY too expensive to let a bunch of high school girls loose on!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">A computerized machine offers a lot of features that I was a bit skeptical of...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">For example, the automatic thread cutter...is it really that hard to snip a thread? I'd never found it a chore previously! And the stop start button... again, I'd never found using the peddel controller an issue!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Sure, these features are not necessities but after using them for the last 6 months (and I do use them, although at first I thought I wouldn't!) they are GREAT! Oh they make life easier and sewing just a little bit more pleasurable. I equate it to having a car with air conditioning; sure you can get places just as well in a car which doesn't have air conditioning but isn't it so much nicer to ride in air conditioned comfort (especially when stuck in Sydney's airport tunnel or M5 tunnel...or any tunnel really...)!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Here are a few features that I'm totally in love with:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- The fix stitch, with the press of a button (happens automatically when you start sewing, unless you've turned it off). You can achieve this on a manual machine with a reverse stitch but the fix stitch is just so much neater and easier!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- I've already mentioned the thread cutter & stop/start button (rather than using the peddle controller).</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- The built in stitch advisory: you press the button for the type of fabric you have, including leather (!!), and the type of stitch you want (seam, overcast, buttonhole etc) and the machine sets the perfect stitch. No more digging out the manual or just giving it a good guess!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- Stretch stitch - this is not just a zig zag! It gives you a much better result when sewing knits.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">- Automatic buttonholes. I feel like I don't need to say anything more here...I mean, automatic buttonhole!!! With my mechanical machine my buttonholes were always slightly different sizes and I was never 100% happy with them (although, it was still better than stitching them by hand!). However, automatic buttonholes are a dream! The Designer Jade 35 sews them SO fast & they are perfect each and every time!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">- Moving needle position - you can move the needle incrementally to the left or right which makes a huge difference with zip insertion, top stitching, hemming etc. I just love it!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">- Adjustable speed. I'm a put my foot down and go kind of person and I love the speed of the Designer Jade 35, however sometimes you need to slow it down! I was recently making a bowl out of fabric scraps & couldn't understand why my thread kept breaking, however I discovered that when I slowed the speed of the machine the breakage stopped. I guess I was just sewing faster than the thread could handle!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">- Alerts: speaking of broken thread, the machine tells you if your thread breaks & stops sewing! I've been known to get to the end of the seam & discover that my thread broke somewhere at the beginning, now that doesn't happen! It also tells you if the machine needs to rest for a moment, which is great.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">- Machine embroidery: the Designer Jade 35 also does machine embroidery, which I absolutely LOVE. Hello monogrammed everything! I am not going to say too much about the embroidery here, as it will be an endless post, but it is SO easy to switch over to embroider. You just slide on the module, change your foot, needle & thread and you're away! Not only is embroidery on clothing really on trend right now, but it makes me feel like I'm designing my own fabric. I'm taking a piece of cloth and making it uniquely mine, not just by the garment I make but with the embroidery I choose. I love it!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">I could keep raving but don't want this to be an endlessly long post! I just wanted to highlight my observations and share what I love about this machine. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">If, like me, you are using an older machine and aren't sure if all the bells and whistles of a computerized machine are worth it, let me tell you they are! Sewing is even easier and more enjoyable with all the features I have available to me on the <a href="http://www.husqvarnaviking.com/en-AU/Machines/DESIGNER-JADE-35" target="_blank"><span style="color: lime;">Designer Jade 35</span></a> (and I still haven't even tried them all!!).</span><br />
<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">I hope this answers some of the questions I was asked on IG, if you have other questions please leave them in comments and I'll get back you to!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">I have acquired some optional extra feet for the Designer Jade 35 so will write a post shortly about those.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Happy Sewing!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggsi6GctO5bd_WV8A_QIvLNkfLEohLjrmf2nwGruBqPAm9o4eLEiijZGSjPNZkZO35d4g7XSPjpkd2xWwrt3Ftphp-2meewILdkxC-OVS6iiEQceSP5Lt5A_k7ZSVoWUACZ2nt-xcijv8/s1600/Jade35.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="357" data-original-width="612" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggsi6GctO5bd_WV8A_QIvLNkfLEohLjrmf2nwGruBqPAm9o4eLEiijZGSjPNZkZO35d4g7XSPjpkd2xWwrt3Ftphp-2meewILdkxC-OVS6iiEQceSP5Lt5A_k7ZSVoWUACZ2nt-xcijv8/s400/Jade35.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image from Husqvarna Viking...my sewing space isn't this cool!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10481989720779600373noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3058677984830019263.post-39740115497469321452018-04-25T09:39:00.000+10:002018-04-27T07:56:14.929+10:00Bondi Top with sleeves<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I recently lost my sew-jo, so to help get it back I started looking at patterns and then reading blog reviews of those patterns for inspiration. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Which reminded me that that was why I started blogging in the first place! To contribute to sewing knowledge & inspiration. I've not been good about that lately, and I'm sorry. Instagram just makes it SO quick & easy to share makes, but it isn't the detailed resource that a blog post can be. I'm going to try to share more on my blog!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I have more questions on IG about my hacks of <a href="http://www.sewtogrow.com.au/product-page/bondi-top-downloadable-pdf" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">The Bondi Top</span></a> by<span style="color: blue;"> <a href="http://www.sewtogrow.com.au/" target="_blank">Sew To Grow</a></span> than any other pattern (probably because I make it so often!). It's a very popular pattern because of its inclusive sizing (xs - 4x), simple design lines and it's just a really easy make! Perfect for a beginner or a fast satisfying make for a more experienced sewist.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I first added 3/4 sleeves to my French Terry version as I didn't want to waste the leftover fabric (I'm thrifty!) & also because it made sense to have sleeves for this thicker fabric. I simply hacked the sleeves by making a rectangle that was the same width as the sleeve opening, then tapering it slightly to the opening. I added a cuff for a bit of fun!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The great news is that Lindsey, the designer of <a href="http://www.sewtogrow.com.au/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Sew To Grow</span> </a>patterns has now created a sleeve<span style="color: blue;"> <a href="http://www.sewtogrow.com.au/product-page/copy-of-bondi-top-extension-pack" target="_blank">extension pack</a></span> you can buy for your Bondi Top. So you're spared my dodgy hand drawn instructions!! Also, her version fits perfectly whereas my hack was a bit of trial & error! As hacks tend to be!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I also hacked the stripped top into a tunic length to wear over leggings. How much length you add is dependent on your height. Obviously, I (at 183cm) add a lot more length that someone who is 153cm!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnfswCfeSkFDac5rwPnK_lcKziaUea1TTZ7T-W1l863y3yvvXxDW9lhn6KkxWU_bUB6sl_W1wXs6P6RfF7JwAYu0ia52MIgdk1IDSX5Ibw14pN1dxoU0ofWw3SIwwF9iUmd9FlS6c3sKU/s1600/20180302_093122.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1564" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnfswCfeSkFDac5rwPnK_lcKziaUea1TTZ7T-W1l863y3yvvXxDW9lhn6KkxWU_bUB6sl_W1wXs6P6RfF7JwAYu0ia52MIgdk1IDSX5Ibw14pN1dxoU0ofWw3SIwwF9iUmd9FlS6c3sKU/s320/20180302_093122.jpg" width="312" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHfChIel-wiZ2DkEGpQA7VmP34t1C3Z-x30449mvXLPQPPahIkNw0-SdlSJk5J48w_zWO3lOTzM_a5Wy8sniBc-KuFnPaSK_mUTEDH9ddpWys80c1CBM59uIUYnAYRj5gW4oSTCgXEErU/s1600/20180301_174201.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1153" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHfChIel-wiZ2DkEGpQA7VmP34t1C3Z-x30449mvXLPQPPahIkNw0-SdlSJk5J48w_zWO3lOTzM_a5Wy8sniBc-KuFnPaSK_mUTEDH9ddpWys80c1CBM59uIUYnAYRj5gW4oSTCgXEErU/s400/20180301_174201.jpg" width="287" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV1uSj7piVD0Dg4t0g002XUTocvhvcVy-n3YXiTR_mVEI_-OBtUQOobaBB2-i0oja8B6JHr8p68s3RBzFNJk0YwpRwGzSUqSsX8FMI4_0kAIb7zYmEKR2lXFu_CbgnJS6hDtpSIuBfwqc/s1600/20180409_073736%25280%2529+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1289" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV1uSj7piVD0Dg4t0g002XUTocvhvcVy-n3YXiTR_mVEI_-OBtUQOobaBB2-i0oja8B6JHr8p68s3RBzFNJk0YwpRwGzSUqSsX8FMI4_0kAIb7zYmEKR2lXFu_CbgnJS6hDtpSIuBfwqc/s320/20180409_073736%25280%2529+%25281%2529.jpg" width="257" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi36txtjmw_YW_BV8pJP8fSl7VJeBUwf7elCqRxai9jIcGlK95PVPmgB8pP9c70znBwGCcHlRsQ9GGXWrQUcC3zHDKg3IwgmGsxvki0uKoRGJiGavujGzdbtkPM-MUXwCeyBWS0faXk6jI/s1600/20180408_152704.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi36txtjmw_YW_BV8pJP8fSl7VJeBUwf7elCqRxai9jIcGlK95PVPmgB8pP9c70znBwGCcHlRsQ9GGXWrQUcC3zHDKg3IwgmGsxvki0uKoRGJiGavujGzdbtkPM-MUXwCeyBWS0faXk6jI/s320/20180408_152704.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">My red gingham version was again hacked to have sleeves, but this time I cropped it slightly. The original pattern has a curved hem that is lower in the back (great butt coverage) but I raised the back hem to match the front.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The Bondi Top is one of those great staples that can be hacked so many ways! I've made it into a dress, added pockets and made it in knits and wovens.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />The extension pack you can buy gives you instructions for adding a casing for a waistband, or you can just add some elastic to the waistline (my dodgy hack).</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Next up I'm planning a chambray version with sleeves & waistband casing which I can layer for winter or wear alone in the warmer months. Hmmm...I may also add some patch pockets because pockets make everything better!!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">If you have any questions on my Bondi Top hacks or hack suggestions of your own, let me know!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Over on the <a href="http://www.husqvarnaviking.com/en-AU/Be-Inspired/Blog/March-2018/Bondi-Top-With-Embroidery" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Husqvarna Viking Australia</span></a> blog you can see my Bondi Top which I added embroidery to. I love this version & plan on adding embroidery to more!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Happy Sewing!</span><br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10481989720779600373noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3058677984830019263.post-7189484627942827272018-04-06T18:55:00.000+10:002018-04-06T18:55:32.701+10:00Library Bag with Monogram<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">One of my favourite things to do with my girls in the school holidays is to make frequent trips to the library. This year I decided to make them each a special library bag (so I'm not lugging all the books!). To be honest, I am SO thrilled that I can now do embroidery (monogram EVERYTHING!) with the Designer Jade 35 that I am looking for things to embroider! </span></div>
<div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhys88RxtmIhw0HuzX4MZfSb28WLCZ7XTfwtWeqdG6uZH14-5MNn11Kx9z7mqhPZ6U7kaRTFIX1tgo_7FaDXe6Brs4Phmkwn30yLwdj-oMocZMGRlBYj83gC6nE1AvCDeEdCLxwXcoeE7s/s1600/monobag1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; font-family: "Times New Roman"; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhys88RxtmIhw0HuzX4MZfSb28WLCZ7XTfwtWeqdG6uZH14-5MNn11Kx9z7mqhPZ6U7kaRTFIX1tgo_7FaDXe6Brs4Phmkwn30yLwdj-oMocZMGRlBYj83gC6nE1AvCDeEdCLxwXcoeE7s/s320/monobag1.jpg" width="240" /></a><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The construction of the bag is really simple. This bag is based on the larger sized picture books my girls like to borrow from the library, but you can size yours to meet your needs!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Head over to <a href="http://www.husqvarnaviking.com/en-AU/Be-Inspired/Blog/February-2018/Library-Bag-Monogram-Everything" target="_blank">Husqvarna Viking Australia's blog</a> to get the details on how to make this bag!</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Because I am SO in love with the embroidery features of the Designer Jade 35 I added a personalized embroidery for each of my daughters. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We had so much fun sitting at the computer together, looking at all the designs and fonts they could choose from (free software that comes with the Designer Jade 35). You simply save your design to the included USB and then plug it into the machine (SO easy!).</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Being girly girls they both wanted heart designs! They then selected their own thread colours for the embroidery. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLybM8DVVKu3NTohMw6dNFMrKHbujGqMmFNp1LXBpVfoz4FZs9B9akqlEJTwY4Ruhu3T9vHXYzxpXHFyZCGypmG7r6PZ2wq11qKlu2TCrHCVqaOxth6oZYfRsRQRo4XYrB5LcP6Uu4clg/s1600/20180105_111616.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLybM8DVVKu3NTohMw6dNFMrKHbujGqMmFNp1LXBpVfoz4FZs9B9akqlEJTwY4Ruhu3T9vHXYzxpXHFyZCGypmG7r6PZ2wq11qKlu2TCrHCVqaOxth6oZYfRsRQRo4XYrB5LcP6Uu4clg/s320/20180105_111616.jpg" width="240" /></a><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I really love involving my girls in the creative process and it makes them love what I make even more because they have contributed. I wish I had filmed the excitement of them watching the Designer Jade 35 create their selected embroidery & the shrieks of delight as "their" design came together (seriously, who needs TV?!!) </span><br />
<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: center;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: center;">A little tip for my fellow newbies to machine embroidery: embroider the bag before you sew it together! You may roll your eyes and give me a big "well duh!"...but hey, I'm just learning! And having SO much fun in the process!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Happy Sewing!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">xox Allison</span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10481989720779600373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3058677984830019263.post-66882872230698858042018-02-01T12:28:00.000+11:002018-02-01T12:28:52.624+11:00Adding a side seam pocket & my first sew with the Designer Jade 35 by Husqvarna Viking<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Hello!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I am so excited to be a guest blogger over at </span><a href="http://www.husqvarnaviking.com/en-AU/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Husqvarna Viking Australia</span></a><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">With all the amazing embroidery and other capabilities of the <a href="http://www.husqvarnaviking.com/en-AU/Machines/DESIGNER-JADE-35" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Designer Jade 35</span></a>, the first thing I do is an alteration (I guess that's just me!!). But in my defence, it is my favourite skirt!! You can read about how I added a nice big (holds your phone!!) side seam pocket over at </span><a href="http://www.husqvarnaviking.com/en-AU/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: blue;">Husqvarna Viking</span>.</span></a> <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk1e5mHJvYjz28L6bpU1i6OgnJkI-ZgIX-hUsuJTC0dyVtkLz2WZ9UAt7iy6OaxbMA5EzpQvtWMopBfSggzcpK8RuPkJUVDmKTc7t1oDkRXilKVPBUuN4qu1rGa-DisJEaKTw1Qk7KkxQ/s1600/midi1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk1e5mHJvYjz28L6bpU1i6OgnJkI-ZgIX-hUsuJTC0dyVtkLz2WZ9UAt7iy6OaxbMA5EzpQvtWMopBfSggzcpK8RuPkJUVDmKTc7t1oDkRXilKVPBUuN4qu1rGa-DisJEaKTw1Qk7KkxQ/s320/midi1.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7uyUtJ9vlb0A8A_mIhe03UtWfqDS5XG6umtDWmUTwhRZVH1PHTRN3pZddcEBMwMUWXAeEDLkekan7PYcnzleHK6NQF3oYgX0AX1YG_Gh3om8LQj9MYhcvdWKDFqA3hQSVcm64H1d59G0/s1600/midi2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7uyUtJ9vlb0A8A_mIhe03UtWfqDS5XG6umtDWmUTwhRZVH1PHTRN3pZddcEBMwMUWXAeEDLkekan7PYcnzleHK6NQF3oYgX0AX1YG_Gh3om8LQj9MYhcvdWKDFqA3hQSVcm64H1d59G0/s320/midi2.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">For my first sewing experience with the <a href="http://www.husqvarnaviking.com/en-AU/Machines/DESIGNER-JADE-35" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Designer Jade 35</span></a> I am absolutely thrilled with how it sews and its great built in features. You can read about the awesome overcast stitch this machine does (because my cranky old overlocker is stubbornly refusing to work...it is NOT a Husqvarna Viking machine!) in my post <a href="http://www.husqvarnaviking.com/en-AU/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">here</span></a>. I can't forget to mention the perfect "fix" stitch it does at the start and end of your seam or the automatic thread cutter! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I have previously sewn on a vintage machine which had none of these features, so they are all just so amazing to me and make for an even more enjoyable sewing experience!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">If you follow me on IG you will know I have been playing with the machine embroidery features a LOT! My next post will feature my first adventures into machine embroidery. Those of you who are experienced with machine embroidery will probably roll your eyes and shake your head...but I am just learning and having SO MUCH FUN in the process!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Happy Sewing!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">xox Allison</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";"></span><br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10481989720779600373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3058677984830019263.post-78416564345641078072018-01-26T09:09:00.001+11:002018-01-26T09:09:15.070+11:00If at first you don't succeed...<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As a sewing blogger, or as a sewist in general, we love to show off the makes we are proud of. The pieces where we have done our best work.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Arial;"></span> </div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">But the reality of sewing is that not everything works out. Sometimes it simply does not work out, or you are not happy with it.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Arial;"></span> </div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Do you have an area of sewing that is currently just beyond your reach? </span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For me it is bag making.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I can make a lovely tote bag until the cows come home. However, when I attempt a handbag it just doesn't work out. My first attempt was so bad I didn't even photograph it! The fact that I tried to self draft it based on an existing bag probably had a LOT to do with the fail!</span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Arial;"></span> </div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My next attempt was better (top right photo below). I used a free pattern by <a href="https://bluecallapatterns.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Blue Calla</span></a><span style="color: blue;"> (</span><a href="https://bluecallapatterns.com/collections/free-patterns/products/free-the-lilac-mini-messenger-pdf-sewing-pattern" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">see here</span></a>). However, I didn't have any hardware on hand so just didn't use any. This resulted in a really "homemade" looking bag, but not in a good way. I used this bag for a little while, but don't love it.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I have just finished another bag (bottom right photo below), also a free pattern by Blue Calla (<a href="https://bluecallapatterns.com/collections/free-patterns/products/free-the-sweet-pea-sadde-bag-pdf-sewing-pattern" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">see here</span></a>). I used hardware salvaged from a worn out bag. Yes, it is better than the last one but I'm still not thrilled with it. I used suede scraps & leftover fabric from my previous bag making attempt. The pattern is great, it's my execution I'm not happy with. </span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My garment sewing has precision & is as nice on the inside as it is outside. Why is my bag making a hot mess??? Argh! It's frustrating!</span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Currently, I have so little confidence in my skill that I refuse to buy a pattern. Why spend money on something I'm going to mess up?? But this defeatist attitude is not going to get me anywhere!</span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Arial;"></span> </div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'm considering trying the Necessary Clutch Wallet by <a href="https://emmalinebags.com/collections/sewing-patterns/products/the-necessary-clutch-wallet-pdf" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Emmaline Bags</span></a>. I've seen so many beautiful versions on insta, I especially love those made in cork fabric. Or the Magnolia Mini Messenger by <a href="https://bluecallapatterns.com/collections/sewing-patterns/products/the-magnolia-mini-messenger-pdf-sewing-pattern" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Blue Calla</span></a>, also a chance to experiment with cork fabric!</span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Arial;"></span> </div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I certainly do NOT need another bag or wallet. I just want to conquer this aspect of sewing that seems to ellude me!</span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Of course, I should stop comparing my attempts to the high quality professional leather bags I have. Lets be honest, I have neither the skill or equipment to come close to my <a href="https://carbotti.it/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Carbotti</span></a> or Coach handbags! </span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Big sigh...I will just keep ploding along and hope for something functional that isn't a hot mess! </span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Is there an area of sewing that you want to improve in? Or perhaps you want to start sewing, but think you will mess it up (contact me, I can recommend fool proof patterns for beginners!)</span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Happy Sewing! Wish me luck!!</span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Xox Allison</span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUdXpxWvlRA8Q7f3oWBVuuWuvE8AbOuaMASwW2iugmj-lOi6mxApf3zGGWScuaiEV8nm-e9qjgk-VRSIwtjidUav_TUvV0u8E80qpg7G5g0DJYLMceX0tSaw-CBm-SVKO5ytyyhCEtNMQ/s400/IMG_20180126_081714.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">On the left is how I want my bags to look, on the right are what I have so far.<br />Granted, I have neither the tools or skill to make a Chanel bag...</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUdXpxWvlRA8Q7f3oWBVuuWuvE8AbOuaMASwW2iugmj-lOi6mxApf3zGGWScuaiEV8nm-e9qjgk-VRSIwtjidUav_TUvV0u8E80qpg7G5g0DJYLMceX0tSaw-CBm-SVKO5ytyyhCEtNMQ/s1600/IMG_20180126_081714.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> </a> </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10481989720779600373noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3058677984830019263.post-2799905342883580072018-01-18T10:42:00.001+11:002018-01-18T10:54:24.330+11:00White Pants Confession #smyly2018<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Currently on Instagram there is a tag gaining momentum amongst the sewing community: #smyly2018</span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Arial;"></span> </div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Sewing makes you love yourself.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For me, this is SO true.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As a teen, growing up in Australia, there were no tall retailers and it was before online shopping.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I truly believed there was something wrong with me, with my body, because the clothes I wanted to wear and buy did not fit me properly. They did not fit at all.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I was a very chubby teen, which didn't help, but being 6 feet tall meant everything was too short.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Arial;"></span> </div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It wasn't until I started sewing that I realized that the problem was with the clothes, not with me. But even then, I felt somehow wrong or different because I had to make so many changes to patterns.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I have a rare congenital bone defect in my lower left leg (congenital pseudarthrosis, which caused a non union in my fibula and bow & fracture in the tibia). So my left leg is 2.5 cm (1 inch) shorter than my right leg. My hips are uneven, which makes fitting pants really difficult. I would do my best to hide this "flaw" in the way I dress and stand. I even avoided wearing a belt because it drew focus to how uneven my hips were (which was ridiculous, sometimes you need a belt to hold your pants up!).</span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Arial;"></span> </div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I would never wear light colours on my lower half because I thought it drew attention to my uneven hips and was not flattering to my pear shape.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Fast forward to a few years ago and I came across the blog <a href="http://www.prettytallstyle.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: red;">Pretty Tall Style</span></a> by the fabulous Tanasha. She made beautiful clothes and she was tall. Tanasha talked about the modifications she made to patterns to fit her tall frame in a straight forward and matter of fact way, because that's what you do to make a pattern fit you. </span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It was like a light went on for me! Of course it was normal to make adjustments. Why did I see that so clearly for someone else, but for myself I still felt a bit "not normal" about it. </span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Then I got on Instagram and the seeing all the adjustments and fitting issues of marvellous women of all shapes and sizes was like a shining light and Hallelujah chorus from heaven. EVERYONE has fit issues! <em><u>Everyone!</u></em></span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I already had a good sense of style that suited me and worked for my body. Sewing made me focus further on fit and really changed my thinking from "my body isn't right for that skirt/trouser/dress" to "that clothing item isn't right for my body".</span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It was a small but powerful shift.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Arial;"></span> </div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The problem was not me. The clothes were not right for <em>me</em>.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Arial;"></span> </div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This shift in thinking encouraged me to challenge my thoughts about what I could & could not wear. I always loved the look of white pants on others, women of all shapes and sizes. So why did I think I couldn't wear them?</span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Arial;"></span> </div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I decided to make myself a pair. To be honest, the pattern I used did not suit my body so I had 3 attempts at getting them right (with long frustrated breaks in between!) but I finally got there.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Arial;"></span> </div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">They are not perfect. With my uneven hips & leg length discrepancy getting a perfect fit is beyond my capabilities currently, but the pants are comfortable and wearable. One of my sewing goals for 2018 is to create a pants block for my body, which means drafting each side sperately to accommodate my wonky shape.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Arial;"></span> </div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Sewing has helped me accept my body for what it is. Honestly, I'm lucky just to have my leg as most people with my condition have had the limb amputated in childhood. When I remind myself of that, a few pull lines on a pair of pants really aren't a big deal!</span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Arial;"></span> </div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Happy Sewing!<br />
Xox Allison</span></div>
<div dir="ltr">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHVI79HjLG4JHvr3LNkJuNmkRPE9lcJ2MXS3Vbq8oH4mWja6XSKXjJQxg8ITexUUoI3MM-eFrQpFTwWzoqSJ8hoYOJogV5dl0GWy19b1nN07pSvsB6xHf-WLW87-ZgDkbw2kVa0NkPUA8/s400/IMG_20180117_210736.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Left: you can see my uneven shape<br />Right: how I always stand to even up my hips!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHVI79HjLG4JHvr3LNkJuNmkRPE9lcJ2MXS3Vbq8oH4mWja6XSKXjJQxg8ITexUUoI3MM-eFrQpFTwWzoqSJ8hoYOJogV5dl0GWy19b1nN07pSvsB6xHf-WLW87-ZgDkbw2kVa0NkPUA8/s1600/IMG_20180117_210736.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> </a> </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10481989720779600373noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3058677984830019263.post-61086696921243095872017-12-23T10:10:00.000+11:002017-12-23T10:10:14.991+11:00A New Era in Sewing<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">2018 is going to be an exciting new era in my sewing adventure and I am SO excited!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I have partnered with Husqvarna Viking® and will be creating with the amazing Husqvarna Viking Designer Jade 35® sewing machine (</span><a href="http://www.husqvarnaviking.com/en-AU/Machines/DESIGNER-JADE-35" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">check it out here</span></a><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">). As someone who has always used a vintage sewing machine, this is a whole new and exciting world of sewing! There is so much to learn with this machine, and I've only had it for a day, but it is SO easy to use. Seriously, the buttons just make sense! </span></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I could rave endlessly about the features of this machine, but you can read about them for yourself on the <a href="http://www.husqvarnaviking.com/en-AU/Machines/DESIGNER-JADE-35" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Husqvarna Viking website</span></a><span style="color: blue;"> </span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";"></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr0IepjT728Xhl9w5po3scjndIm6wTYXk7dFgD-auKTK3KTgibch3f8XPxJKJ38VhmRzfyfnow9aqkS00jOusxcs-Wd0INISCzk6HsBacTVFnG5WTBkmBTJtCHuSYDgtVGQqUCMEZT69w/s1600/DesignerJade35pic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="357" data-original-width="612" height="186" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr0IepjT728Xhl9w5po3scjndIm6wTYXk7dFgD-auKTK3KTgibch3f8XPxJKJ38VhmRzfyfnow9aqkS00jOusxcs-Wd0INISCzk6HsBacTVFnG5WTBkmBTJtCHuSYDgtVGQqUCMEZT69w/s320/DesignerJade35pic.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Image from Husqvarna Viking<br />We all know my sewing space isn't this cool!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Naturally, the first thing I did with the machine (after a couple of straight lines of sewing...it does the most perfect "fix" stitch at the start and end AND cuts the threads with the touch of a button!!!) was stitch out my name. I cannot stress how easy it was to program in my name and then just press the start button! Done!</span><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9DVj3cu8uKc_ZvOLkwrxG0DKYwoXDHnT7F18dlkD2i2v3b34x25yRI9wQR3uDGmvVEuFCA8tKGKrwh51n90oFufEN-50oUnIiAqH7Fi1IYE1SQoq5CVX6p26GeKavV-VBmlj2BUxDLC8/s1600/20171223_090424.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9DVj3cu8uKc_ZvOLkwrxG0DKYwoXDHnT7F18dlkD2i2v3b34x25yRI9wQR3uDGmvVEuFCA8tKGKrwh51n90oFufEN-50oUnIiAqH7Fi1IYE1SQoq5CVX6p26GeKavV-VBmlj2BUxDLC8/s320/20171223_090424.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'm not the only one who would do this, right?!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The Designer Jade 35 also does embroidery. I've not yet explored that feature, but if the ease of the sewing machine is anything to go by it will be a breeze to use. My mind is racing with all the dressmaking projects I can add embroidery to...the possibilities are endless. And clothing with embroidery is so on trend right now that I'm feeling very cool!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So stay tuned for lots of exciting new projects and sewing inspiration!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Check out Husqvarna Viking Sewing Australia's Facebook page for the announcement and a giveaway (closing early Jan 2018).</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Happy Sewing!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">xox Allison</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10481989720779600373noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3058677984830019263.post-77244556260243825742017-11-18T16:13:00.000+11:002017-11-18T16:13:06.659+11:00Knit Fabric Wrap Dress<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgg-XjpnZHiCVMyBR2JZG76uW2gjREfDIAuLtcXOkFXLjpTWFZejusdn6tFbDT1X5H4zkQIXF7T21yB0YMWxzzc5f3AbAkKzvE_2QovSROapRXABIcbdBmqK-1yZmg0HTbmpXvh7SvbZE/s1600/IMG_5692.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgg-XjpnZHiCVMyBR2JZG76uW2gjREfDIAuLtcXOkFXLjpTWFZejusdn6tFbDT1X5H4zkQIXF7T21yB0YMWxzzc5f3AbAkKzvE_2QovSROapRXABIcbdBmqK-1yZmg0HTbmpXvh7SvbZE/s640/IMG_5692.JPG" width="425" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I was lucky enough to be asked to be a guest blogger for </span><a href="http://www.bravefabrics.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Brave Fabrics</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">. I selected a gorgeous knit from Art Gallery Fabrics Woodland collection from Brave Fabrics awesome range to make my own take on the CharliAnne Wrap Dress by </span><a href="http://www.sewtogrow.com.au/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Sew To Grow</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span> </div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Head over to </span><a href="http://www.bravefabrics.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Brave Fabrics</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> to see my guest post and you can also purchase the fabric and pattern to make your own!</span></div>
<div>
<br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">First, lets talk fabric. This fabric is amazing!! It is SO soft and stretchy with the perfect amount of thickness and drape. It is such high quality. It washes beautifully and was a dream to sew with. Honestly, I'm more of a woven fabrics girl but these knits by AGF could convert me! It didn't stretch out of shape whilst sewing like some knits do, it was even easy to hem! <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I use a vintage (1976) Bernina sewing machine, so I don't have a fancy walking foot or a lot of fancy stitch options. However I didn't need them, this fabric was a dream to sew!</span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The pattern I used was the CharliAnne Wrap Dress which is a new pattern by </span><a href="http://www.sewtogrow.com.au/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Sew To Grow</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">. Full disclosure: I now have 3 of these dresses and have hacked 2 tops from the pattern. I'm a bit obsessed! I was originally going to make a different dress, but once I got the fabric I knew it had to be a wrap dress.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span> </div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The CharliAnne Wrap Dress is a pattern for woven fabric. I cut out my usual size, however made it knee length rather than the full length. I used the darts in the skirt and bodice front as I didn't want my dress to be too clingy. I did omit the darts from the back bodice. To stop the dress stretching too much, I used a woven bias to finish the edges as per the instructions in the pattern. This worked beautifully and as you can see, it lays really nicely. </span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span> </div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For reference (and to make it easy for you to order your fabric & pattern from </span><a href="http://www.bravefabrics.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Brave Fabrics</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">) I made a size XS and used 2.25m of fabric. If you are making a larger size you will need 2.5 - 3m of knit fabric. For the bias just use some of your favourite woven fabric from your stash and make it per the instructions in the pattern.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span> </div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I am SO happy with this dress and in love with the fabric. I know it will be on high rotation for all seasons!</span></div>
<div>
<br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Happy Sewing!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">xox Allison</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKCQr_asdPgLD7udGO7q2n39ZzUbGyNRISGy1ZNCoae6qr0_x6UJsYEkV97bh26kBKs6Vev_duBS6eC9PHI0YXBtusWkU6w27UV7JwRoA9apC9NAoGiVuMij3B6EZ6na5qQQO1OORAC5Y/s1600/IMG_5705.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKCQr_asdPgLD7udGO7q2n39ZzUbGyNRISGy1ZNCoae6qr0_x6UJsYEkV97bh26kBKs6Vev_duBS6eC9PHI0YXBtusWkU6w27UV7JwRoA9apC9NAoGiVuMij3B6EZ6na5qQQO1OORAC5Y/s640/IMG_5705.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10481989720779600373noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3058677984830019263.post-84576029789065034102017-08-26T07:56:00.000+10:002017-08-26T07:57:28.980+10:00Bespoke Blazer Review / Pattern Test<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Okay, so if you follow me on insta you know that my review of the Bespoke Blazer by<a href="http://www.sewtogrow.com.au/" target="_blank"> Sew To Grow</a> (released 25th Aug. 2017) can be summed up in two words...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">LOVE IT!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I really do. It's an easy make & such an amazing result for something that comes together so quickly. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">For those of us on team tall it was simple to make alterations. I added 7cm to the sleeves and 5cm to all body pieces. For reference, I made a size xs.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I love the burrito method for enclosing the side seam, it's an amazing sewing slight of hand trick!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I have already made 2 Bespoke Blazers and am about to make my 3rd! I'll be starting a support/enabling group on insta using #bespokeblazer </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">As a Mama, jeans & a tee are my standard uniform for all seasons. Adding a blazer elevates that look and makes me feel a little more put together. It also gives me a chance to play with colour & pattern over my standard black on black or white on denim look.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I have tested most of the patterns by Lindsey at <a href="http://www.sewtogrow.com.au/" target="_blank">Sew To Grow</a> and am going to go out on a limb and say it's her best pattern to date. Can I say that without detracting from her other patterns?! I hope so!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This is not a paid endorsement, I just really love this pattern! It's beautiful and works for all of our diverse body types.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Hurry to <a href="http://www.sewtogrow.com.au/" target="_blank">buy your copy now</a>, you can get a discount this weekend only!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Happy Sewing!</span><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBxmIrtvdYJ8I7eHxIwfcS0mxiRmkGPqOF33dkSCwvjdPX46gI_HtGbkD1killEqVaWZL9rWn_IqIcr7r7EXDWD8uKO7N2hvP7Ic7hswrTsPiFpdeLdTcqJXG6JzYpxUjktBDYrBE54F0/s1600/20170729_131302.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1207" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBxmIrtvdYJ8I7eHxIwfcS0mxiRmkGPqOF33dkSCwvjdPX46gI_HtGbkD1killEqVaWZL9rWn_IqIcr7r7EXDWD8uKO7N2hvP7Ic7hswrTsPiFpdeLdTcqJXG6JzYpxUjktBDYrBE54F0/s320/20170729_131302.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">LOVE the curved hem!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8Utyk6xvAUAtLTJaEb3aFiSYXJLgj2Ky1cd0SIbuwctszALNNnne6EncBMsZQ1P94Awvr4UkacPz-280OipA2g1i5p3i95EuzWmFYqXClf0zNvYqn9SoF4J0X9TyPdb_Ok6Lu_T7aVVU/s1600/IMG_20170824_121830_834.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8Utyk6xvAUAtLTJaEb3aFiSYXJLgj2Ky1cd0SIbuwctszALNNnne6EncBMsZQ1P94Awvr4UkacPz-280OipA2g1i5p3i95EuzWmFYqXClf0zNvYqn9SoF4J0X9TyPdb_Ok6Lu_T7aVVU/s200/IMG_20170824_121830_834.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Meeting the fab Lindsey from Sew To Grow,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">both of us in our Bespoke Blazers!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlWxFi77Vpbyy35psscKne5kw9ENVK3SldS5lalQzege5cGQAFSAEx1TbmDPGKCWU3TwQmKTe7A-PFMUshJ4C_7MS-zoDudypiKXvRkQQrgkca5VsdYpOozbiqxo3FSgt0cpGbLHtHEwA/s1600/IMG_20170824_121830_842.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlWxFi77Vpbyy35psscKne5kw9ENVK3SldS5lalQzege5cGQAFSAEx1TbmDPGKCWU3TwQmKTe7A-PFMUshJ4C_7MS-zoDudypiKXvRkQQrgkca5VsdYpOozbiqxo3FSgt0cpGbLHtHEwA/s200/IMG_20170824_121830_842.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10481989720779600373noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3058677984830019263.post-88413197118490526042017-05-22T09:43:00.000+10:002017-05-22T09:43:11.131+10:00How To Make a Reversible Dress<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I have had lots of questions about the reversible dress I made for the <a href="http://thetallmamastyle.blogspot.com.au/2017/05/the-big-reveal-sewtallandcreative2017.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">#sewtallandcreative2017</span></a> challenge.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">To make a dress reversible it needs to have no zippers or buttons. For this dress I used the Sweet Summertime dress by <a href="http://www.sewtogrow.com.au/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Sew To Grow</span></a> as it is a straight forward design with no closures. I did make some modifications which you can read about <a href="http://thetallmamastyle.blogspot.com.au/2017/05/the-big-reveal-sewtallandcreative2017.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">here</span></a>.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">In fact, many of the Sew To Grow patterns would work as reversible garments as they are simple designs with no zippers or buttons etc. I am now thinking that I need to make a <a href="http://www.sewtogrow.com.au/product-page/the-bondi-top" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Bondi Top</span></a> or <a href="http://www.sewtogrow.com.au/product-page/the-noosa-shift" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Noosa Shift Dress</span></a> reversible!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Basically, to make a reversible dress (I'm using a dress as my example, but the same steps would apply to a top or skirt or loose pants) you make 2 dresses in different fabrics. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Here, you can see that I've got one dress made in a sheer silk, the other in a satin. Using a sheer fabric is more challenging, particularly because you need to have really neat seam finishes. In this dress I used French Seams so everything would be tidy.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";"></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBv36QMGugYkrEe9J2iX5_JEenTVpHDNkVBo-XY0sfsFZ9XRDcCHin52VkraEFDJkTMyhKuyc_OX-rdZnRyTX25ZJMO-NkUS8m-S91Djgfmpvizabb8adMgmmQUCSKWInXuYP9pI5mDNw/s1600/IMG_5196.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBv36QMGugYkrEe9J2iX5_JEenTVpHDNkVBo-XY0sfsFZ9XRDcCHin52VkraEFDJkTMyhKuyc_OX-rdZnRyTX25ZJMO-NkUS8m-S91Djgfmpvizabb8adMgmmQUCSKWInXuYP9pI5mDNw/s640/IMG_5196.JPG" width="425" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">To show off the underneath layer I put a split in the front of the silk layer.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Place the 2 dresses with wrong sides together. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Finish the neckline and sleeves with bias. If making a skirt or pants, you would use the waistband to sandwich the 2 layers together.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">As you can see here, I made bias binding out the same fabric as the satin side of my dress. Use the bias to sandwich the 2 pieces together. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3JfN9Ce31WCF3TzpnYtp9owba9r9jnrOLwJMxa3z_39_tsvaU5inE80jUrq_xRNAGmFk8BLzBQMWDYT4D_4gwEjzAw1PCL5L1kFYdFAduDrqr1x-wwEyXwIpmUJaUq1_PHmvUNnhwz7Y/s1600/ReversibleTut1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3JfN9Ce31WCF3TzpnYtp9owba9r9jnrOLwJMxa3z_39_tsvaU5inE80jUrq_xRNAGmFk8BLzBQMWDYT4D_4gwEjzAw1PCL5L1kFYdFAduDrqr1x-wwEyXwIpmUJaUq1_PHmvUNnhwz7Y/s320/ReversibleTut1.jpg" width="304" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6UfHJ4XIDC1_EUWD0WmY2l0lB20FzXaTUqYKlFchQl5DPhnzPfcxp0VhqnRiUpYlp3OoZ10jsCJj3SHeXKBUF7ynW_VCcrqazZu8EABwitR48uEpO11LQyz-HQ7jLbr6LMzS0I-cgfLA/s1600/ReversibleTut.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6UfHJ4XIDC1_EUWD0WmY2l0lB20FzXaTUqYKlFchQl5DPhnzPfcxp0VhqnRiUpYlp3OoZ10jsCJj3SHeXKBUF7ynW_VCcrqazZu8EABwitR48uEpO11LQyz-HQ7jLbr6LMzS0I-cgfLA/s320/ReversibleTut.jpg" width="285" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">In this dress the 2 sides are only attached at the sleeves and neckline. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">When hemming the dress, make sure the hems are the same length for a tidy finish. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiey7tw0EMc4xx_Nef5JEnCB7hh87xxqKdXlrFETB1I9LKz4w_UE6LIX8581KM4GvMh1w9TtnGMUL5-utSQYU1mL2CcGXUPDfx-qbGOvVOFar4zOusY8ojL-pQfzeQASlnN-XSMaXMk0sM/s1600/ReversibleTut2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiey7tw0EMc4xx_Nef5JEnCB7hh87xxqKdXlrFETB1I9LKz4w_UE6LIX8581KM4GvMh1w9TtnGMUL5-utSQYU1mL2CcGXUPDfx-qbGOvVOFar4zOusY8ojL-pQfzeQASlnN-XSMaXMk0sM/s640/ReversibleTut2.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz7cAe9wbQdjTbbPmqVdZZid43PIiiUZpC6zPDRikPWSIVXx7FKogF0FtYKgIxW_OLCHJZ8qkyhvv4lr02T92BMBP55Ndvlp5_HSHd-osNGGl9QT-YM7JFqlDLhyphenhyphen8vRyxi_rId7Jg8bCQ/s1600/ReversibleTut3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz7cAe9wbQdjTbbPmqVdZZid43PIiiUZpC6zPDRikPWSIVXx7FKogF0FtYKgIxW_OLCHJZ8qkyhvv4lr02T92BMBP55Ndvlp5_HSHd-osNGGl9QT-YM7JFqlDLhyphenhyphen8vRyxi_rId7Jg8bCQ/s640/ReversibleTut3.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">It's just that simple to make a reversible dress (or any other garment!). If you make yourself a reversible piece please send me a pic or tag me on Instagram (@the_tall_mama) because I'd love to see it!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Happy Sewing! xox</span> Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10481989720779600373noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3058677984830019263.post-83082659215407398982017-05-20T09:41:00.000+10:002017-05-26T18:23:18.228+10:00The Big Reveal! #SewTallandCreative2017<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Here it is! My dress entry for the #SewTallandCreative2017 competition hosted by <a href="http://www.margeclothing.com/" target="_blank">MARGE Clothing</a> and <a href="http://www.tallguides.com/" target="_blank">Tall Guides</a>.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Before we talk about the dress, I'd just like to say that I truly feel honoured to be selected to take part. Yes, that sounds a bit like an Academy Awards speech, except that I really mean it. Being part of this challenge tested my design and sewing skills. It encouraged me to work with fabrics I wasn't as comfortable sewing and to make and design a dress which made the most of the quantity of fabric provided. Although I had periods of indecision, worry and second guessing myself on the whole I loved the entire experience. More importantly I LOVE my dress! I love the weight of the fabrics, I love the way it swishes when I walk (you can't help but add a little swagger!!) and I love how I feel wearing it. And isn't that what Tall Guides and MARGE is all about? Feeling confident and beautiful in our tall bodies?!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So without further ado, here is my dress! The challenge required we use 2 fabrics generously gifted by MARGE. All MARGE fabrics are ethically made in Europe & USA. To make the most of the divine fabrics I made my dress reversible. Two dresses in one! The dress pulls on over my head and doesn't have a zip or buttons. I based my design on the <a href="http://www.sewtogrow.com.au/product-page/sweet-summertime-peplum-and-dress" target="_blank">Sweet Summertime Dress</a> by <a href="http://www.sewtogrow.com.au/" target="_blank">Sew To Grow</a>. I've made this dress before, so knew the bodice fit. I did modify the skirt of the dress by making it fuller and longer and making the front pleats bigger. I added pleats to the back of the skirt for extra fullness & swish. I made the hem of the skirt longer in the back so you could see the underneath fabric better, this also gives more swish when you walk. With the gorgeous drape of these fabrics, I was all about the swish factor!</span> <br />
<br />
<span id="goog_1758596398"></span><span id="goog_1758596399"></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBzxrNs2gQZQy3l7B2bD2ksYCtXJAg8UcWp3NZu6TkldmK3mbz7Nd1ALvvmbuUpfNrHV9xdso8Hd0MTWDzywVjBmNe8bVnSOlZ7CXjxFKLPfyBBQKAdWxlKiap4_As9EY9kAgNyip3FY0/s1600/Peach1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBzxrNs2gQZQy3l7B2bD2ksYCtXJAg8UcWp3NZu6TkldmK3mbz7Nd1ALvvmbuUpfNrHV9xdso8Hd0MTWDzywVjBmNe8bVnSOlZ7CXjxFKLPfyBBQKAdWxlKiap4_As9EY9kAgNyip3FY0/s640/Peach1.JPG" width="425" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I love the how you can see the silk layer underneath as the dress moves!</span><br /><span style="font-size: x-small;">Please ignore the patch on my arm; it's for pain medication.</span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRmwgl-PdcwGaT21bFpbw0h008ICsCJwGkjgoZkEblNXCXeaqNCp3e8-ObZwfKv9-aRIZnM7UTHmiK7Okaya2S3JNlJWS_plTXkEey61bpNXTn9IV64Wy74PbRJwNwtNloaM2PBXc4Y7A/s1600/Peach2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRmwgl-PdcwGaT21bFpbw0h008ICsCJwGkjgoZkEblNXCXeaqNCp3e8-ObZwfKv9-aRIZnM7UTHmiK7Okaya2S3JNlJWS_plTXkEey61bpNXTn9IV64Wy74PbRJwNwtNloaM2PBXc4Y7A/s640/Peach2.JPG" width="425" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">As I move the silk shows at the hem which adds such a pretty detail.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibwSgyNJMuaUDnRP44ip2V6ucXC-pVj4q-Dkd_lA79qg_J91lyhJUqD43COGn_iEVbrc6HOV3nlciLP_0Q87IDijkp3vER9vraIQrJviZI6xHrvNW4526MKBI0UxbmaWJnp07yOKzhhWg/s1600/Satin+Side1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibwSgyNJMuaUDnRP44ip2V6ucXC-pVj4q-Dkd_lA79qg_J91lyhJUqD43COGn_iEVbrc6HOV3nlciLP_0Q87IDijkp3vER9vraIQrJviZI6xHrvNW4526MKBI0UxbmaWJnp07yOKzhhWg/s640/Satin+Side1.JPG" width="425" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">The weight of these fabrics make the dress SO swishy!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioO0j4mN4u2knIfSzSQUAJWWWVNJ90D5Nkts_T2QJXAhRw1o7CSwujfPouWZmyVA5n-hmaC_9Nf9rOsDEiX5rYSVWNeg3k2rWc-8MuaJKNWuwU3P2pTSkdwowVqjXzOrbr0-NMw9wOkRY/s1600/PeachBack2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioO0j4mN4u2knIfSzSQUAJWWWVNJ90D5Nkts_T2QJXAhRw1o7CSwujfPouWZmyVA5n-hmaC_9Nf9rOsDEiX5rYSVWNeg3k2rWc-8MuaJKNWuwU3P2pTSkdwowVqjXzOrbr0-NMw9wOkRY/s640/PeachBack2.JPG" width="425" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Just look at the movement in that skirt & the way the satin shines!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjje1Mb9gxAzKFmuRFemtmZ5W__C8bJ0uPEzCFSe6YGxJrwEl_TK8E4PEGBl-PvJK9VhYcUJe8A_iPbdKyUUlnuqz2bpy5SJpLI2g3715B7tZqbWlrwkzhg4WUadgTSBrJ3FdSLurv5Ss0/s1600/PeachBack.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjje1Mb9gxAzKFmuRFemtmZ5W__C8bJ0uPEzCFSe6YGxJrwEl_TK8E4PEGBl-PvJK9VhYcUJe8A_iPbdKyUUlnuqz2bpy5SJpLI2g3715B7tZqbWlrwkzhg4WUadgTSBrJ3FdSLurv5Ss0/s640/PeachBack.JPG" width="425" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Swish!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilFDJlu4vLzDMS84z4WOcAhkRxHzAu6H2cNITTNRV-I5IDMdVb9JPVgfkYcVSY59r9iSwTVqF5fqWJi5vdhAK2XCWDwFVzVz7nLBJrdkClrPeSjLMmvsZXG4RlKpgyGDtSElcD078tJvg/s1600/DressBack2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilFDJlu4vLzDMS84z4WOcAhkRxHzAu6H2cNITTNRV-I5IDMdVb9JPVgfkYcVSY59r9iSwTVqF5fqWJi5vdhAK2XCWDwFVzVz7nLBJrdkClrPeSjLMmvsZXG4RlKpgyGDtSElcD078tJvg/s640/DressBack2.JPG" width="358" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Due to fabric restrictions I had to put a seam in the back of the silk layer,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">but the movement wasn't effected.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHGiEl-HaYfFcR3Bt0FAAA0seumJ0tyuYX8Dozr4pzu_6vpXoq5TAJVzsV-0efTWYC7QLLywUx9EovEvGZkr7X5nXEIgDs-7mVvE4ug2JxgoZMT9VYmkyQBaDhBjUFHXzkok6kZsrkrNQ/s1600/DressBack.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHGiEl-HaYfFcR3Bt0FAAA0seumJ0tyuYX8Dozr4pzu_6vpXoq5TAJVzsV-0efTWYC7QLLywUx9EovEvGZkr7X5nXEIgDs-7mVvE4ug2JxgoZMT9VYmkyQBaDhBjUFHXzkok6kZsrkrNQ/s640/DressBack.JPG" width="418" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Just look at that movement!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs7T0SivJr_tR_dzA2LGHx3knZ35vuyAkS8Im766SSsKvxB-62zRpOYrgKePebOZzZ_QXgOo92iAUbK9F9h_0dBTy1jwrvZ6ppjTgB1OSF7l8SrfdYM_anVLtl34WhSENaRMlKpiex-yE/s1600/Dress2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs7T0SivJr_tR_dzA2LGHx3knZ35vuyAkS8Im766SSsKvxB-62zRpOYrgKePebOZzZ_QXgOo92iAUbK9F9h_0dBTy1jwrvZ6ppjTgB1OSF7l8SrfdYM_anVLtl34WhSENaRMlKpiex-yE/s640/Dress2.JPG" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">I'm so pleased I opened the front of the silk layer to show the gorgeous satin underneath.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9elhHy7gGGEfxyDlPSkQ8mw4D3m6Kp0HIgsBd40Qhkhbk_NqiZ_fRmCMqheveXFvVtMEIXlWVI_XRuK-1dTEvEMWgtaCBspCtHbTt-aWj5q8pwwd0EcQGTu8ujSuLUWDJqprBWpw_Wbg/s1600/Dress1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9elhHy7gGGEfxyDlPSkQ8mw4D3m6Kp0HIgsBd40Qhkhbk_NqiZ_fRmCMqheveXFvVtMEIXlWVI_XRuK-1dTEvEMWgtaCBspCtHbTt-aWj5q8pwwd0EcQGTu8ujSuLUWDJqprBWpw_Wbg/s640/Dress1.JPG" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">I added a little tie belt to tie in (pun only a little bit intended) </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">the satin trim around the neck & sleeves.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKfC0me02VSSb56mtixAGDDdFag8QpmvMYjTaqGYiAUz6-wJegY3vOHMXtYvZLiKC7pYmnJbvJA06btYuMi4J4-UbMCA5GbfT2zfZB6NYJNK_tbID9G-P_sokfkkFiQUP-uEzNLOT92CE/s1600/Dress3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKfC0me02VSSb56mtixAGDDdFag8QpmvMYjTaqGYiAUz6-wJegY3vOHMXtYvZLiKC7pYmnJbvJA06btYuMi4J4-UbMCA5GbfT2zfZB6NYJNK_tbID9G-P_sokfkkFiQUP-uEzNLOT92CE/s640/Dress3.JPG" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I love the way this dress hangs and feels</span>!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";"></span> </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So there it is! My entry for #SewTallandCreative2017 </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I'm very proud of it!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";">Please check out the other fabulous ladies: </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Beth at </span><a href="http://www.sewdiy.com/"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">www.sewdiy.com</span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Janet at </span><a href="http://www.diywardrobe.co.uk/"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">www.diywardrobe.co.uk</span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Tiffany at </span><a href="http://www.prettytallsewnsew.com/"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">www.prettytallsewnsew.com</span></a><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Thank you for following my progress in this challenge! xox Allison</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10481989720779600373noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3058677984830019263.post-69308385871279590202017-05-09T16:53:00.001+10:002017-05-10T16:05:43.770+10:00#SewTallAndCreative2017 Sewing Process<div dir="ltr">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This challenge is really speeding along! </span><br>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I am about half way into making my dress for #SewTallAndCreative2017 hosted by <a href="http://www.margeclothing.com/" target="_blank">MARGE</a> and <a href="http://www.tallguides.com/" target="_blank">Tall Guides.</a> </span><br>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I am making my dress out of the gorgeous dotty silk over the peach satin. In my last post I was still tossing around design ideas but I really love the 2 fabrics together. My design is still changing and evolving as I sew, which is such a fun part of the creative process. </span><br>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Typically I would advise someone to make a muslin of their design (a mock up in cheap fabric), which I haven't done in this case. We don't always follow our own good advice, do we?! However, by working with the fabrics as I go I feel a little more free to make changes based on how they hang on my body.</span><br>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Thus far, I have used French Seams in the satin to give a beautiful finish. For those who don't sew (yet!) they are essentially seams which double over on themselves. They're twice as much work but well worth it! I am finding sewing the silk (dotty fabric) a massive challenge. Working with this fabric is far out of my comfort zone and really testing my sewing skills. It's great that this competition is really stretching both my creativity and skill, I just hope it doesn't turn out to be a hot mess!</span><br>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The bodice of my dress is very simple. It's based on a pattern I've used a couple of times before (see here) so I know I don't need to make major changes as I don't have a large bust or very long torso...all my extra length is from the waist down!</span><br>
<span style="font-family: Arial;"></span><br>
<span style="font-family: Arial;">For the skirt of my dress I've gone with as much fullness as the fabric I had on hand would allow. I'm still tossing around ideas of how I'll really show off the beautiful satin underneath the silk layer. I am not usually an indecisive person AT ALL but there are just so many options I'm not sure which is the best to go with!</span><br>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The final reveal of my dress will be 20th May, so stay tuned!</span><br>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Check out the progress of the other fabulous ladies who are participating:</span><br>
<br>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Beth at </span><a href="http://www.sewdiy.com/"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">www.sewdiy.com</span></a><br>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Janet at </span><a href="http://www.diywardrobe.co.uk/"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">www.diywardrobe.co.uk</span></a><br>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Tiffany at </span><a href="http://www.prettytallsewnsew.com/"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">www.prettytallsewnsew.com</span></a><br>
<br>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Happy sewing & wish me luck!</span><br>
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMkxPvgmLV_HjSPChfqafK2D2kveUMqvz27Wrv5IleMd_ivFVG5ZXX-4Pj-a8EDcgIpH1_YZDGm14XcXejpU2lgsUhz1DZgOuYnzCL7xbU5rybB4O9WXQCU_652aNmaid2S1RhTajyca8/s640/20170503_131603.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The silk is just gorgeous over the peach satin. <br>
I'm being careful & using lots of pins, something I rarely do!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMkxPvgmLV_HjSPChfqafK2D2kveUMqvz27Wrv5IleMd_ivFVG5ZXX-4Pj-a8EDcgIpH1_YZDGm14XcXejpU2lgsUhz1DZgOuYnzCL7xbU5rybB4O9WXQCU_652aNmaid2S1RhTajyca8/s1600/20170503_131603.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> </a> </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGtcgCv_nKYQh9WeCPpo9yom6LRtL0hmP1BkRHc5EA3fvduYMlmF76RSKeBvYr-bdjF_-lNBksJHOp7m2gQPI3QIlIbW0h1dUNs4USMTzP5HA-QaxuxvbANBeLt3hvDYRT_YhUzbApKQI/s640/20170419_115154.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="360"></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These strips will be ironed into bias binding, which <em>may</em> be used around the neckline.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGtcgCv_nKYQh9WeCPpo9yom6LRtL0hmP1BkRHc5EA3fvduYMlmF76RSKeBvYr-bdjF_-lNBksJHOp7m2gQPI3QIlIbW0h1dUNs4USMTzP5HA-QaxuxvbANBeLt3hvDYRT_YhUzbApKQI/s1600/20170419_115154.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGyi7FN11M7iDTshN-46KgdamaQ2eIJtgyajoJGX9674MsXF7PGvc_FyBe9Ky2-vGsj1kFs5dSzlzTPlzRa9YiFWkIt3r2EdR6E685rW_YqIf2fq_C6pn-EFHD-8-8YILg_K3NzCjyWxo/s640/20170315_105828.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640"></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Talk about cutting it close!! I had only a tiny handful of scraps left after cutting the silk. <br>
There is NO room for error here people!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGyi7FN11M7iDTshN-46KgdamaQ2eIJtgyajoJGX9674MsXF7PGvc_FyBe9Ky2-vGsj1kFs5dSzlzTPlzRa9YiFWkIt3r2EdR6E685rW_YqIf2fq_C6pn-EFHD-8-8YILg_K3NzCjyWxo/s1600/20170315_105828.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> </a> </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10481989720779600373noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3058677984830019263.post-947360105259602752017-04-30T11:04:00.001+10:002017-04-30T12:04:10.660+10:00#SewTallAndCreative2017 Concept/Initial Design Process<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After so much back and forth it was getting ridiculous, I have selected 2 fabrics. The peach satin & the sheer pink silk. </span><br>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My design process changes as I sew, as things do or do not work out as I see them in my head. My design is a work in progress! On IG I said I would spare you anymore of my stick figures...but as that is the extent of my design drawing ability, here's another on! (Forgive me!!!). </span><br>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I will post updates on IG as the construction gets underway and I either continue with this style or modify it. Or worst case, have to go with plan B which uses the divine printed lace with the peach fabric (which I'll no doubt end up making anyway, because the fabric is too beautiful to sit on the shelf!).</span><br>
<span style="font-family: Arial;"></span><br>
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Happy Sewing! </span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4kV2OVCA0qq19J2VPCYPLaUCitLh0yNGX5ImE2eu1cFdBi3uVw6wQ6_Ws0HraplN5FZk5WOOHBSf7S4asfiqHBBvDGOUzvnxIWpt6dSBq-Stp83ZWh_Ko41msh2ui1kv8rl_d4w3u0N8/s1600/small-header-design-challenge.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4kV2OVCA0qq19J2VPCYPLaUCitLh0yNGX5ImE2eu1cFdBi3uVw6wQ6_Ws0HraplN5FZk5WOOHBSf7S4asfiqHBBvDGOUzvnxIWpt6dSBq-Stp83ZWh_Ko41msh2ui1kv8rl_d4w3u0N8/s320/small-header-design-challenge.png" width="320"></a></span></div>
<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5eUL3odbZzh4XdVQ1Hi5wM_PIKM6KIfYpAU7XRyw584PjRrx8X7gz-uW__7R8pA7D_bKfmwoKfYrVK-piGzlS_7DTR51TsW6wwShjcJrnQzvAxz9eK00OxCprVkEDQSggNbX8lTvjZCk/s1600/20170430_111815-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5eUL3odbZzh4XdVQ1Hi5wM_PIKM6KIfYpAU7XRyw584PjRrx8X7gz-uW__7R8pA7D_bKfmwoKfYrVK-piGzlS_7DTR51TsW6wwShjcJrnQzvAxz9eK00OxCprVkEDQSggNbX8lTvjZCk/s640/20170430_111815-1.jpg"> </a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I hope there's a prize for design drawings, because this is clearly a winner!!! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIBLWkJCGzjWG1Muz_RwqRhS34X6kVcLEOYx0nva5_2sOvdkkQ_NitsivaU6XU90vavr4F9LfwVdyeq86XDeBkQ-gT_jMKz52pC4j0NWYcy07LUln6XkeSNx0ya7pLu0e5Ga9_Ki2SGP4/s1600/IMG_20170425_075456_080.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIBLWkJCGzjWG1Muz_RwqRhS34X6kVcLEOYx0nva5_2sOvdkkQ_NitsivaU6XU90vavr4F9LfwVdyeq86XDeBkQ-gT_jMKz52pC4j0NWYcy07LUln6XkeSNx0ya7pLu0e5Ga9_Ki2SGP4/s640/IMG_20170425_075456_080.jpg"> </a> </div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10481989720779600373noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3058677984830019263.post-33689427430389758202017-03-29T13:53:00.000+11:002017-03-29T13:53:02.195+11:00#SewTallAndCreative2017 Inspiration & Intention<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA2HWItGulWs4K8rICUYZa5x9QqoSuU-pylPMQbYRnAZyT_A5TPbXpAvPEMtoqaOq1ZdhYCd0k72kVjT3WnHPTAxUxvi_oji0emzCVXtp1jWBMBafKZ2FkAlHIuJ-MGnHKeXToJeN_Pqo/s1600/small-header-design-challenge.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA2HWItGulWs4K8rICUYZa5x9QqoSuU-pylPMQbYRnAZyT_A5TPbXpAvPEMtoqaOq1ZdhYCd0k72kVjT3WnHPTAxUxvi_oji0emzCVXtp1jWBMBafKZ2FkAlHIuJ-MGnHKeXToJeN_Pqo/s320/small-header-design-challenge.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: large;"><strong><em></em></strong></span><br />
<strong><em><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: large;"></span></em></strong><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";">I find inspiration in many places; from RTW (ready to wear) clothing I see online & in stores, from the fabulous & fashionable I follow on IG (I'm sure that includes you!) to the gorgeous vintage patterns that I <strike>hoard</strike> collect, my favourites being the 1950's & 60's.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";">Inspiration can also come from gorgeous fabrics. You can look at and fondle (I know that sounds a bit creepy but anyone who sews gets it!) fabric and envisage the garment it could become.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";">When I received the box of gorgeous fabrics from MARGE my mind went into overdrive. My original thoughts for a design went out the window as they didn't lend themselves to the soft drapey goodness of these fabrics. Also, part of the challenge is to use 2 different fabrics which adds another creative element to my typically basic style. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";">Although I've not yet settled on a design, I know I will stick to elements that are consistent with my personal style and flatter my shape, such as a full or A line skirt at or below the knee, defined waist and fitted bodice. That leaves things pretty wide open, doesn't it?! Yep...hence my challenge! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Here are a few style ideas I have been bouncing around (images from Google Images):</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIh5HcowmyagCb-7p8OwqL_jmgox1m9xvOq0Nas8HIdYZQ4LUotMSQajgE4-bf2FmlDcwcU2X85EmDOL4fcIAHd9VTNqWPqUIv5H6zrbKJMKPQUFBDDa5h8vXSPLpB94XUKBrPm273Pkk/s1600/dress+black.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIh5HcowmyagCb-7p8OwqL_jmgox1m9xvOq0Nas8HIdYZQ4LUotMSQajgE4-bf2FmlDcwcU2X85EmDOL4fcIAHd9VTNqWPqUIv5H6zrbKJMKPQUFBDDa5h8vXSPLpB94XUKBrPm273Pkk/s1600/dress+black.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Love the lace sleeves here!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRJylfowiGIRo8t9xhKSL9Gum0YFqYTpgLstlSxlIaz52j9-iqkZlaYvckIl3yTOxuMeKLxjocZ5lZGNCSHBIjz3qWC_ApqomQveRny0slRezLWHe-aGCfxGQp_m1SvU00zgbpOVtV1o0/s1600/dress+blue.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRJylfowiGIRo8t9xhKSL9Gum0YFqYTpgLstlSxlIaz52j9-iqkZlaYvckIl3yTOxuMeKLxjocZ5lZGNCSHBIjz3qWC_ApqomQveRny0slRezLWHe-aGCfxGQp_m1SvU00zgbpOVtV1o0/s1600/dress+blue.png" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Love the sleeves & skirt fullness!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghqcsMHtDBEf4mRT18_5EB97aDnun-9QPxWrU4YxDbR9dyWNQvCdaBfUF28WdYbsAXjZk9QOBSLZZjFkHy41TtGB283Dea3xqr7JYunCuyiiQQT7RwxEj3eDQuN5HskeHQByB5FeFhRow/s1600/dress+green.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghqcsMHtDBEf4mRT18_5EB97aDnun-9QPxWrU4YxDbR9dyWNQvCdaBfUF28WdYbsAXjZk9QOBSLZZjFkHy41TtGB283Dea3xqr7JYunCuyiiQQT7RwxEj3eDQuN5HskeHQByB5FeFhRow/s1600/dress+green.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Love the sheer top and defined waist!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7n8m9xtp4Z5mU_btsFzQJ85Jx6Eh0w_jj_8e_EF1fbMpOsXdbyMIK5yPziMSicXDeSEeTONtE3ZIhN6r2gST6D2cWn54xLCcYxcVi7QiySKyThOwmyI2QG8WYHa54evm1laT2lk4ei2Q/s1600/midi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7n8m9xtp4Z5mU_btsFzQJ85Jx6Eh0w_jj_8e_EF1fbMpOsXdbyMIK5yPziMSicXDeSEeTONtE3ZIhN6r2gST6D2cWn54xLCcYxcVi7QiySKyThOwmyI2QG8WYHa54evm1laT2lk4ei2Q/s1600/midi.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This dress just looks like it would</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">swish when you walk!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimS5FJLq9W3KvGt0VUD-uDIctGhHJax65YCZYTBK84Ak3YamuMQdj_3yBUQRtvbrYjZFlfD8C13kAn7F5Fflr8RIqnvAdKIjKlk5fPbaXRQQ8M8QtF8yU8nhQvP2FUOMsP7l3xo1yECEA/s1600/rainbow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimS5FJLq9W3KvGt0VUD-uDIctGhHJax65YCZYTBK84Ak3YamuMQdj_3yBUQRtvbrYjZFlfD8C13kAn7F5Fflr8RIqnvAdKIjKlk5fPbaXRQQ8M8QtF8yU8nhQvP2FUOMsP7l3xo1yECEA/s320/rainbow.jpg" width="190" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Love, love, love! Just need to </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">figure out how to make it!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Hmmm...there is a pretty common theme there!! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;">I will update you with my design ideas when I figure out how to best incorporate 2 gorgeous fabrics. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;">Please feel free to make any suggestions, all helpful ideas welcome!</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10481989720779600373noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3058677984830019263.post-69761806563677110022017-03-20T18:47:00.002+11:002017-03-29T13:25:11.414+11:00MARGE / Tall Guides Design Challenge #SewTallAndCreative2017 <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA2HWItGulWs4K8rICUYZa5x9QqoSuU-pylPMQbYRnAZyT_A5TPbXpAvPEMtoqaOq1ZdhYCd0k72kVjT3WnHPTAxUxvi_oji0emzCVXtp1jWBMBafKZ2FkAlHIuJ-MGnHKeXToJeN_Pqo/s1600/small-header-design-challenge.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA2HWItGulWs4K8rICUYZa5x9QqoSuU-pylPMQbYRnAZyT_A5TPbXpAvPEMtoqaOq1ZdhYCd0k72kVjT3WnHPTAxUxvi_oji0emzCVXtp1jWBMBafKZ2FkAlHIuJ-MGnHKeXToJeN_Pqo/s320/small-header-design-challenge.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I am equal parts excited and terrified to be participating in the </span><a href="http://www.margeclothing.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">MARGE</span></a><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> and </span><a href="http://www.tallguides.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Tall Guides</span></a><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> design challenge.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The challenge is to make a Spring / Summer dress using 2 fabrics generously gifted by MARGE clothing. Having been the lucky beneficiary of MARGE fabrics before, I knew I couldn't resist the opportunity to sew with their stunning ethically made fabrics. Who could?! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I thought I'd try something a little different and introduce myself and my super high tech & glam sewing space (otherwise known as my kitchen table & 40 year old sewing machine!) with a little video:</span><br />
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dyzY9FjRHYkUsZb3u2oKT2XijEJjoCmso15yIu0egCgwUIWMntXkxj3Gd4WDc8w6mV6Z0htFCp1LXS_2LSSvQ' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Please check out the other fabulous participants in this challenge. All of whom I'm trying to put out of my mind because I'm intimidated by their awesomeness!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Beth at </span><a href="http://www.sewdiy.com/"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">www.sewdiy.com</span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Janet at </span><a href="http://www.diywardrobe.co.uk/"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">www.diywardrobe.co.uk</span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Tiffany at </span><a href="http://www.prettytallsewnsew.com/"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">www.prettytallsewnsew.com</span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I will update you on the challenge as it unfolds, so be sure to check back! The winner will be announced 20th of May (*big gulp* that's sooner than you think my lovelies!!).</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Wish me luck!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: small;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: small;"></span><br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10481989720779600373noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3058677984830019263.post-30233902970768996042017-01-19T15:31:00.002+11:002017-01-19T15:31:17.976+11:00First Make of 2017! B6333<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Happy New Year!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Despite the busy past couple of months (turning 40, best friend visiting from New York, Christmas, school holidays etc) I did manage to squeeze in some sewing.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My first make of the year is Butterick 6333, a classic shirt dress.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em><strong>Overall experience:</strong></em></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The pattern says that it's easy, and it is. Maybe not for a beginner, but an easy sew for those with some experience and a good way to learn new skills (collar and buttons) for newbies.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em><strong>My adjustments:</strong></em></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I added 23 cm (9 inches) to the skirt length as I wanted it to hit below the knee. Based on my measurements I added 1.5cm to the bodice length, however had to remove it. Then I entered a sizing parallel universe...I cut out the size which corresponded with my measurements but it was huge! I ended up taking out about 5cm (2 inches) on either side and bringing in the shoulders 2cm (almost an inch) as they hung off my reasonably average shoulders. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Does this happen to anyone else? You cut out your size based on the pattern measurements, but then it's huge? Oh well, better too big than too small I guess!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em><strong>Fabric used:</strong></em></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I used a gifted cotton lawn. The fabric is very lightweight so I lined the front of the bodice (not in the instructions). I possibly would have lined the skirt, but ran out of lining fabric! After having worn it, I think it's fine without lining.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em><strong>Would I make it again?:</strong></em></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Yes. I love the timeless classic style and it has pockets (which, as you know, I add to just about everything but it was nice they were part of the design!). Despite all the adjustments I had to make it was worth it and will be much smoother sewing next time. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong><em>Happy Sewing!!</em></strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghOTUGihK_Da6D7CJ-hTFeaVAdWgNtCNwgfw82t0BL84up2dTmYVMKTe4TRcVWro6MZi50MXxteueVFNFLeydRvx924RnwWvIhJhDU5HG7X4X3OQMxlqKOfWC6ltoxqhxXuX8K9cYhvZY/s1600/IMG_5162.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghOTUGihK_Da6D7CJ-hTFeaVAdWgNtCNwgfw82t0BL84up2dTmYVMKTe4TRcVWro6MZi50MXxteueVFNFLeydRvx924RnwWvIhJhDU5HG7X4X3OQMxlqKOfWC6ltoxqhxXuX8K9cYhvZY/s640/IMG_5162.JPG" width="425" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifdtXEJ7p75ewHKliCK7yiZVBSKjozJTzgtyndIDySAT54s5GUSSVkt1OPcWZQzVAmstZfi4qMmRBGLQ8CvnEoHNGN_cmF54Sikw4EORoBT7mCgsCxe-Smxxio0Uk_BXkYSKtxzoAjD1Q/s1600/IMG_5163.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifdtXEJ7p75ewHKliCK7yiZVBSKjozJTzgtyndIDySAT54s5GUSSVkt1OPcWZQzVAmstZfi4qMmRBGLQ8CvnEoHNGN_cmF54Sikw4EORoBT7mCgsCxe-Smxxio0Uk_BXkYSKtxzoAjD1Q/s640/IMG_5163.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLtf0JQADSWkh8xznCs7mvJDhd7f8ZzmnoFdl8g5NE5ql7AAYyGrqRxJSZZjMfw_H4ZZEwuxmgPvAnS4l8ErxRQYxwk5QeaCkBGdcVsqTOH_vCIWp_4s4Rn3f-28wp_6XrEsw4SCk5Nmw/s1600/IMG_5168.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLtf0JQADSWkh8xznCs7mvJDhd7f8ZzmnoFdl8g5NE5ql7AAYyGrqRxJSZZjMfw_H4ZZEwuxmgPvAnS4l8ErxRQYxwk5QeaCkBGdcVsqTOH_vCIWp_4s4Rn3f-28wp_6XrEsw4SCk5Nmw/s640/IMG_5168.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10481989720779600373noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3058677984830019263.post-59405246603813574922016-11-19T07:55:00.000+11:002016-11-19T07:55:50.487+11:00Muslin Magic!<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Okay, so "muslin magic" is a bit of an overstatement for the title of this post!!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">However, this is a favourite trick of mine when making muslins out of scrap fabric. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">When I'm using a new dress pattern for the first time the fit of the shoulders, bust and waist is most important to me. Typically I'm making a full / flared skirt so my butt can be as big as it wants to be and the skirt portion will fit! However, I have to more carefully consider the fit of my upper body (which is sometimes up to 2 sizes smaller than my lower half!). </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Rather than using up lots of fabric to make a muslin of the skirt, which I know will fit, I make just the top. If the muslin works out I have a lovely new top to wear with jeans or a skirt. If it doesn't work out, I haven't wasted many metres of fabric.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Here are 2 examples of my top half muslin making magic!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";">The first is The Rosie Dress by <a href="http://www.simplysewingmag.com/cottonandchalk/" target="_blank">Cotton & Chalk.</a> I used a rayon purchased from my Church fête, sadly there wasn't enough to make a whole dress. I was between sizes so went with the larger size. Mistake! It was huge, so huge that I think I lost some of the original shape taking it in. The neckline is designed for a more endowed woman than I, so I had to take that in too. All in all, if the fabric wasn't so pretty I'd probably discard this one. I really don't see myself making the dress, which is a shame because I've seen fabulous versions of it on Instagram. Who knows, maybe I will give it another go...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaRKtXDHtQjtR852cf1u_8Bkn6uMYnJ_0Pxi9iLc6lGBpGsZsT9cmvnECiAC7C_uHpFnliqPVDVuRliBPWo7LlMUl6UV7nCBcBmBd0iq7oZyQgjxPll0PNqcutzQ0BfayB-ExoeIq5NG0/s1600/IMG_5080+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaRKtXDHtQjtR852cf1u_8Bkn6uMYnJ_0Pxi9iLc6lGBpGsZsT9cmvnECiAC7C_uHpFnliqPVDVuRliBPWo7LlMUl6UV7nCBcBmBd0iq7oZyQgjxPll0PNqcutzQ0BfayB-ExoeIq5NG0/s640/IMG_5080+%25282%2529.JPG" width="425" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEift6paWSy19YX4zMGU7Xc2RJpdqYSaNlrzOeQAUTFMx9ZPokfxy8EZC7Mgn4IywUbH_MlZE0p-sD72O3YkmFRh6Ri-Hs-WPg1BDhR8Spj6AJ7xZw8x_8NtfBmQCr3LRyOeumJNsQeUB7E/s1600/IMG_5081+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEift6paWSy19YX4zMGU7Xc2RJpdqYSaNlrzOeQAUTFMx9ZPokfxy8EZC7Mgn4IywUbH_MlZE0p-sD72O3YkmFRh6Ri-Hs-WPg1BDhR8Spj6AJ7xZw8x_8NtfBmQCr3LRyOeumJNsQeUB7E/s640/IMG_5081+%25282%2529.JPG" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">No idea what I'm doing here. Clearly, I'm a professional model!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLYRo6D3ziz3OUEPdoq8WKLFpHivnD9ODawAMnOk_9HF4yCKDJE4gA6PoKakOEhk1PPwqHBaBCpp7fWzPABKimKAEhScD5jJcHq6Yfm0b3lTaUx9dQ_2cOU1jJMxPNkg4cX9oekWFFO1g/s1600/IMG_5082+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLYRo6D3ziz3OUEPdoq8WKLFpHivnD9ODawAMnOk_9HF4yCKDJE4gA6PoKakOEhk1PPwqHBaBCpp7fWzPABKimKAEhScD5jJcHq6Yfm0b3lTaUx9dQ_2cOU1jJMxPNkg4cX9oekWFFO1g/s640/IMG_5082+%25282%2529.JPG" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Pretty fabric!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The second top is The Olivia Dress also by Cotton & Chalk. I was much happier with this one and have since made it into a long sleeved maxi dress. For this muslin I used a cotton lawn which was gifted to me. I didn't have to make any tall girl alterations for this one!</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizjt1Lp-Q4ZoFHXNpkbdWnaACg8UHdw07S7m_7c8hDE984v8_CsgvaZjdjZtnZRHcWFWU9TQOdb-IySX62AsYqIQEpbOjsmC0AckbAhizhU1SuevkFk1FGWyPHq0Ut-p3MYSmL4rQMP3U/s1600/IMG_5086+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizjt1Lp-Q4ZoFHXNpkbdWnaACg8UHdw07S7m_7c8hDE984v8_CsgvaZjdjZtnZRHcWFWU9TQOdb-IySX62AsYqIQEpbOjsmC0AckbAhizhU1SuevkFk1FGWyPHq0Ut-p3MYSmL4rQMP3U/s640/IMG_5086+%25282%2529.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD-18h62Kgy8EJUFyBsVjQFzsd7yjAIhB7pLxy0XLQYYeo0KmXVmMzP5CsiGr2BVToeUSQMI6QWH_dZA4dE3DhF22zTqQkrmG4MBiJuIEGbjSHNPnCOFy930l4AziTogUjpMLcEzVZOXM/s1600/IMG_5096+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD-18h62Kgy8EJUFyBsVjQFzsd7yjAIhB7pLxy0XLQYYeo0KmXVmMzP5CsiGr2BVToeUSQMI6QWH_dZA4dE3DhF22zTqQkrmG4MBiJuIEGbjSHNPnCOFy930l4AziTogUjpMLcEzVZOXM/s640/IMG_5096+%25282%2529.JPG" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">The shot everyone who sews can relate too</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small;"> - tucking in a loose thread!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10481989720779600373noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3058677984830019263.post-73841918185438145412016-11-04T09:38:00.002+11:002016-11-04T09:38:53.238+11:00The Fremantle Frock by Sew To Grow<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Hello!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I wanted to share with you my version of The Fremantle Frock, a new pattern by </span><a href="http://www.sewtogrow.com.au/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Sew To Grow</span></a><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: blue;">.</span> As you know, I'm a sucker for anything with pockets and this dress is no exception. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I love the placement of the pockets and the slimming seams of this dress. It was simple to make and is one of those great dresses that can be dressed up or down.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">To fit my body I made the following minor adjustments: </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Raised & narrowed the neckline 1.5cm</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Lowered the pockets and added 2.5cm to the torso length</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Added hem length (sorry, I don't recall exactly how much but hem length is a personal preference so do what makes you happy!!)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">All in all, very minor adjustments for a great straight forward dress.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I made this version in shirting material (which I've since discovered wrinkles A LOT!) and a non stretchy knit type fabric for the navy side panels. I think this pattern would be amazing in a scuba knit!!</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf0dR-20RXpb77ZrvnJPLG1FvlcPHarz0GPQdUsExCypoVk1I8b0Of-ei2Wo4WNYZyyZCutGImzhfWfAWBbFcdQ3U9nmUPUVHcyfZ-qEqvkbyVIARcNH6j9-d_Lw8T9H4HQE5bAplW1Yw/s1600/IMG_5050+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf0dR-20RXpb77ZrvnJPLG1FvlcPHarz0GPQdUsExCypoVk1I8b0Of-ei2Wo4WNYZyyZCutGImzhfWfAWBbFcdQ3U9nmUPUVHcyfZ-qEqvkbyVIARcNH6j9-d_Lw8T9H4HQE5bAplW1Yw/s400/IMG_5050+%25282%2529.JPG" width="266" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix7PkUQPuTlO2uxSMDMkZwoOiFs6gG3nviGVO6-7PqdoRShQH6EfZ4rUVu86qWYmXtpYisQNPxocMz4_miGoHM-DxtvXie6mw8IQ0vKMSmxw2ecOuJ0QsBnEAk8Tt6rCbqlLwtdMLLGII/s1600/IMG_5051.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix7PkUQPuTlO2uxSMDMkZwoOiFs6gG3nviGVO6-7PqdoRShQH6EfZ4rUVu86qWYmXtpYisQNPxocMz4_miGoHM-DxtvXie6mw8IQ0vKMSmxw2ecOuJ0QsBnEAk8Tt6rCbqlLwtdMLLGII/s400/IMG_5051.JPG" width="266" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc5e7Gtc8npZwzxNoUEhp29Rxrixw98470m67880b6xO9acNbHgluTN4HMmWoG68Qz4DBhUsQPgDSa8-xlKnOTwjvvnOjpn_8KdzKGldwsp4JMLgMBBgKpDORrFim3KoIDBPSoHccozPE/s1600/IMG_5056.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc5e7Gtc8npZwzxNoUEhp29Rxrixw98470m67880b6xO9acNbHgluTN4HMmWoG68Qz4DBhUsQPgDSa8-xlKnOTwjvvnOjpn_8KdzKGldwsp4JMLgMBBgKpDORrFim3KoIDBPSoHccozPE/s400/IMG_5056.JPG" width="266" /></a></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10481989720779600373noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3058677984830019263.post-76696649226509566292016-09-18T07:03:00.000+10:002016-09-24T16:56:08.325+10:00MaaiDesign Blog Tour - The Bondi Top Pattern Hack<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Hello Everyone!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I'm thrilled to be part of the </span><a href="http://www.maaidesign.com.au/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">MaaiDesign</span></a><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> blog tour again! This time highlighting a gorgeous new range of rayon fabrics "See You At Six". </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This fabric is not only gorgeous, but was really lovely to sew. It did not come out of the wash all wrinkly and held creases when ironed beautifully. I didn't even need to pin the hem once I'd ironed up the hem allowance... yay!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Can we talk about how great the drape is?? So flattering and soft to wear. I'm a big fan!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">To make the most of this soft comfy fabric I made <a href="http://www.sewtogrow.com.au/_p/prd1/4215899641/product/the-bondi-top" target="_blank">The Bondi Top</a> by <a href="http://www.sewtogrow.com.au/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Sew To Grow</span></a> into a dress. I've made 3 of these tops and love them. To turn it into a dress I simply made it longer, yep it was just that easy! I also added patch pockets, because when aren't pockets a good idea?! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";">I used French Seams because fabric as lovely as this deserved a nice seam finish! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";">I am so happy with how the dress turned out! I've styled it a couple of different ways but know I will also be wearing it with tights and a scarf for winter. Don't you just love pieces that work for all seasons?!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";"></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5LQ4wPxxE4HH0sbKZ-ZqvRzIqnCO_onWP9sj30Yw95OhlMFuIbHHiKPgvXYCf7WI0-Vt-74ed_f5wbWn0mhoVnjxIyxGmeDJXyxTVrwLR1sx4XfjOJgo_rqC4CFMctGAxqt7GpCd_hiA/s1600/IMG_5030+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5LQ4wPxxE4HH0sbKZ-ZqvRzIqnCO_onWP9sj30Yw95OhlMFuIbHHiKPgvXYCf7WI0-Vt-74ed_f5wbWn0mhoVnjxIyxGmeDJXyxTVrwLR1sx4XfjOJgo_rqC4CFMctGAxqt7GpCd_hiA/s640/IMG_5030+%25282%2529.JPG" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Pockets! They make everything better in my book!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNwWvXWPq9UgCXlasqJTP9B9tUcJHOC8PqUHuSFT4YNPO9AFlPA-iG6GKzxk-VGp-rvNBSyJ84yWHNOKfd1jXdzr0yYNqesGMwzt8vL7IiV9HlLOy16CIO34053WhkUnfu-C0fl1HLq98/s1600/IMG_5034+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNwWvXWPq9UgCXlasqJTP9B9tUcJHOC8PqUHuSFT4YNPO9AFlPA-iG6GKzxk-VGp-rvNBSyJ84yWHNOKfd1jXdzr0yYNqesGMwzt8vL7IiV9HlLOy16CIO34053WhkUnfu-C0fl1HLq98/s640/IMG_5034+%25282%2529.JPG" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">I love how The Bondi Top is longer in the back, </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">I kept it that way for the dress too.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVzGYAN6tlNDFusNnp3vWDuCvajz3rnDVc1nkwJkIRDL_PP49FgXqjKK7Qkkonsl0-oR0cJp1aepn9e4-1nPFvFtOBuAxEj680azag1ggs2d96IwzZhubHY5ZQOspWgXDYpzMaUlMa8HY/s1600/IMG_5036+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVzGYAN6tlNDFusNnp3vWDuCvajz3rnDVc1nkwJkIRDL_PP49FgXqjKK7Qkkonsl0-oR0cJp1aepn9e4-1nPFvFtOBuAxEj680azag1ggs2d96IwzZhubHY5ZQOspWgXDYpzMaUlMa8HY/s640/IMG_5036+%25282%2529.JPG" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">I love it belted, looks a little more dressy! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Forgive the shifty side eye I'm giving the cat!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: "arial";"></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjusl4AHmdPa3eIOUmrQCDIhpMHasA5lOL06Ejb5WyXaNXNnfaW0LsWV8kv1rJqxJb8HzO-J8ts1ZADUYyguiIayLxsz71SFVpkeD_vd2Dshach3kdKjzPzjX_4SeqKEMnKcNjSCtECM9w/s1600/IMG_5040.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjusl4AHmdPa3eIOUmrQCDIhpMHasA5lOL06Ejb5WyXaNXNnfaW0LsWV8kv1rJqxJb8HzO-J8ts1ZADUYyguiIayLxsz71SFVpkeD_vd2Dshach3kdKjzPzjX_4SeqKEMnKcNjSCtECM9w/s640/IMG_5040.JPG" width="425" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">This is how I wore the dress the day </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Hubs took the pics as it was still a bit chilly!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVzGYAN6tlNDFusNnp3vWDuCvajz3rnDVc1nkwJkIRDL_PP49FgXqjKK7Qkkonsl0-oR0cJp1aepn9e4-1nPFvFtOBuAxEj680azag1ggs2d96IwzZhubHY5ZQOspWgXDYpzMaUlMa8HY/s1600/IMG_5036+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> </div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So you can enjoy the delicious drapey goodness MaaiDesign is offering you a 10% discount on the See You At Six collection from 12th – 30th September 2016. Simply use the code: <b>seeyouatsix. </b></span><br />
<strong><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Be sure to check out the other fabulous creations with the See You At Six rayon:</span></strong><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<strong></strong> </div>
<br />
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/1180/8622/files/See_you_at_six_blog_tour_grande.png?v=1472172989" /><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">12th of September: Shelley from <strong><a href="http://bartacksandsingletrack.blogspot.com.au/2016/09/see-you-at-six-maaidesign-blog-tour.html" target="_blank" title="Bartacks and Singletrack">Bartacks and Singletrack</a></strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">13th of September: Kate from <strong><a href="https://sewingwithkate.wordpress.com/2016/09/13/rockin-the-rayon/" target="_blank" title="Sewing with Kate">Sewing With Kate</a></strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">14th of September: Nicola from <strong><a href="https://createnic.wordpress.com/2016/09/13/see-you-at-six/" target="_blank" title="Create.nic">Create.nic</a></strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">15th of September: Anna from <strong><a href="http://www.bloglessanna.com/sew/see-you-at-six-me-and-mini-me/" target="_blank" title="Blogless Anna">Blogless Anna</a></strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">16th of September: Caroline from <strong><a href="http://www.usefulbox.com.au/2016/09/a-me-made-deer-doe-cardamome-dress-for.html" target="_blank" title="Usefulbox">Usefulbox</a></strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">17th of September: Suz from <strong><a href="http://www.sewponyblog.com/2016/09/see-you-at-six_17.html" target="_blank" title="Sewpony">Sewpony</a></strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">18th of September: Allison from <strong><a href="http://thetallmamastyle.blogspot.com.au/2016/09/maaidesign-blog-tour-bondi-top-pattern.html" target="_blank" title="The Tall Mama">The Tall Mama</a></strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">19th of September: Toni from <strong><a href="http://makeitperfect.com.au/maai-design-see-six-blog-tour/" target="_blank" title="Make It Perfect">Make It Perfect</a></strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">20th of September: Suzanne from <strong><a href="https://dressedinprettylittlethings.wordpress.com/2016/09/20/see-you-at-six-blog-tour/" target="_blank" title="Dressed in pretty little things">Dressed in Pretty Little Things</a></strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">21st of September: Natalie from <strong><a href="http://www.sewoutnumbered.com/rayon-southport-dress-maai-design-blog-tour/" target="_blank" title="Sewoutnumbered">Sew Outnumbered</a></strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">22nd of September: Jenya from <strong><a href="http://whileshesleeping.blogspot.com.au/2016/09/maaidesign-tour-see-you-at-six.html" target="_blank" title="While she was sleeping">While She Was Sleeping</a></strong></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">23rd of September: Maaike from <strong><a href="https://www.maaidesign.com/blogs/see-you-at-six-blog-tour-2016" target="_blank" title="MaaiDesign See You At Six blog tour">MaaiDesign</a></strong></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10481989720779600373noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3058677984830019263.post-26902286651173531332016-09-15T13:33:00.002+10:002018-02-22T14:36:43.498+11:00How my Husband is Beating a Brain Tumour<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I'm a compartmentaliser; which means I keep aspects of my life separate ... in little compartments. My blog & IG is one little compartment kept for me and my sewing obsession. My personal life is another compartment and my work life (which I am giving up to devote my time to caring for my family) is another compartment. The compartments don't cross over and I am very comfortable with that.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This post is so far out of my comfort zone it isn't funny. So why am I doing it? </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Well, my Husband is a Super Hero and is beating a brain tumour that has killed most people in 3 - 5 years. The reason I'm sharing is that if his story can help one person, one person who is the whole world to their loved ones just as he is to us, to survive then it is worth all of the discomfort it causes me to write this. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">In April 2013, after months of mini seizures, my Husband was diagnosed with an Oligodendroglioma brain tumour. His GP (General Practitioner Doctor) discovered it from CT and MRI's which were conducted because his Father had died from a brain tumour 11 years prior. We saw a Neurosurgeon which the GP referred us to, who confirmed that it was a tumour and it should be removed. I didn't have a good feeling about that doctor and I've learnt to always go with my gut feeling... I'm never wrong! </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So I looked up <a href="https://www.curebraincancer.org.au/page/58/charlie-teo" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Dr. Charlie Teo</span></a> who is based in Sydney and has a reputation for being one of the worlds leading Neurosurgeons.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Now you can't just make an appointment with Charlie (yeah, we just call him Charlie). He is in such massive demand that you have to send your MRI and he determines if you're a suitable patient in need of his skill. I sent the MRI with a pleading letter and called everyday to follow up. Finally, his very tolerant staff told me that Charlie had left a note on my Husbands MRI saying "Book for immediate consult and surgery". Okay. So it <em>was</em> bad enough to warrant Charlie's attention. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">In fact, the tumour was 6 cm x 4 cm x 5 cm. That's a big tumour! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We had an initial consult with Charlie who told us all the in's and out's. The risks and benefits of surgery, and then asked us what we wanted to do. I answered for us both, saying that it needed to come out! Charlie said he was happy to hear that as he had booked a surgery for 6 am the next morning. This was happening!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">At the time our daughters where 17 months and 2 months old. Sure, it was stressful (the biggest understatement <em>EVER</em>!) but it was also a blessing. They were too young to know what was going on. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">In the interest of this not being a massive post, I'll skip over details and say the surgery and his recover went well. If anyone you know has had brain surgery you know how debilitating it is and how slow the recovery is. The post surgery biopsy revealed that it was a grade 2 / grade 3 tumour. Grade 3 means cancer. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Getting the news from Charlie that people with this type of tumour had a life expectancy of 3 to 5 years stopped my world. My blood ran cold. I retreated so far within myself that I felt like I was having a nightmare. <em>3 to 5 years.</em> Our beautiful daughters were babies. Would they not have their Papa for long? Would they grow up not remembering him? How could I parent without him? Without my anchor, my rock. What would I do without the love of my life? Why is this happening to our beautiful innocent girls who need their Papa as much as I need my Husband?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Charlie said to me "you need to make plans accordingly, you can't just bury your head in the sand". The comment wrenched me from my sleep more times than I can count. I would hear Charlie's voice in my head, clear as a bell for a long long time, saying "most people live 3 - 5 years. You need to make plans accordingly, you can't bury your head in the sand". Again, and again, and again.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Out of nowhere I asked Charlie if there was anything we could do. He had already explained that life expectancy was not improved by chemo or radiation, in fact, studies were showing that those treatments CAUSE secondary cancer. Charlie casually mentioned that a patient had shown him a YouTube clip about the Ketogenic Diet to fight cancer and the science they talked about was true science, so we could give that a go.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Something on YouTube? What?! But if anyone knows, Charlie knows. So we gave it a go. A BIG go! </span><a href="http://www.ketogenic-diet-resource.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This link</span></a><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> was my first go to... there is a sea of information out there for this diet... most of which is NOT helpful. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">2 months later we had a follow up appointment with Charlie, during which time his wife had been diagnosed with breast cancer (I'm not sharing his personal information, he has spoken about it on Australian TV). She was on the Ketogenic Diet to fight her cancer. He was no longer talking about it in an off hand sort of way, he knew all about it and was advocating it hard. Think about it, if it's good enough for his beloved wife to be on to fight her cancer, then it must be good!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The brain tumour is being beaten with diet. It's so simple it seems too good to be true. Sugar/carbs feed cancer cells, by depriving cancer cells of their food source they die. Healthy cells can thrive on carbs or ketones, so by being on a Ketogenic Diet you are only feeding healthy cells. This is true for all forms of cancer. The diet is not widely supported by the conventional medical community, and certainly not by drug companies as there is no money to be made in cutting out sugar.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";">My Husband takes large doses of Turmeric (pure & ground into capsules); Charlie said that his research team had proven that Turmeric kills cancer cells and his wife was also taking high doses. We buy it from </span><a href="http://www.herbosophy.com.au/turmeric/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "arial";">Herbosohpy</span></a><span style="font-family: "arial";">. My Husband also chews on raw ginger (which is very much an acquired taste!) but is reported to have significant health benefits.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Our girls still eat fruit and grains etc. I do not feed them refined sugar (the occasional bit of birthday cake not withstanding) as there is absolutely no need for it in a healthy diet. All of our main meals are ketogenic and I love it! Our blood sugars and cholesterol levels are healthy.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Most people with the same type of brain tumour have a recurrence within 12 months. It has been over 3 years since my Husband's surgery and he has had no recurrence. He has not needed another surgery, has had no chemo or radiation. At last MRI my Husband still has "something" there. It could be scar tissue or low grade tumour, Charlie can't be sure without surgery. Either way, he is kicking the butt of the odds and we (Charlie included) could not be happier. He is 3 years post op and is healthy. I thank God for that everyday! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><strong>I am not an expert on the Ketogenic Diet.</strong> There is a formula for each individual to work our their carbs per day. We don't do that, we just go as low as possible. There are also urine tests to asses your keto level; my Husband was doing that but didn't continue as the MRI results were proof enough that it was working.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">If you have any questions about what we eat on a daily basis, please let me know.</span> As I said, I am not an expert, I am simply the wife of a Super Hero who is beating a deadly brain tumour thanks to the Ketogenic Diet and the Grace of God.</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em><strong>February 2018 edit: Due to administrative overspending at the Cure For Life charity, Charlie has started his own charity (go Charlie!!). Please support the dream of a world free from brain cancer at the </strong></em></span><a href="http://www.charlieteofoundation.org.au/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em><strong>Charlie Teo Foundation</strong></em></span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em><strong>. Charlie's vision is "a world free from brain cancer" with a mission "we can and MUST do better".</strong></em></span><br />
<strong><em><span style="font-family: Arial;"></span></em></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-family: Arial;">Thank you.</span></strong><br />
<br /><br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10481989720779600373noreply@blogger.com17