Pink Cheetah McCall 7634

A few weeks ago I purchased some fabric from Mood fabric online Mood fabric is the fabric supplier for Project Runway and Project Runway Junior.   Some day I will visit the store in New York.

I bought some really great pieces on this website.  My tween fell in love with a pink cheetah print jersey fabric .  I knew I had to make her something that was cute but a little edgy because she's a preteen.  After looking through my pattern stash I found McCall 7634.

I purchased this pattern for her to make in a sweatshirt fabric.  I decided to use this jersey print fabric and make some modifications to the pattern.

Modifications
Number one I removed the center front placket that will have the grommets instead I folded the fabric in half  and cut it on the center front in a straight line.

Number two instead of cutting the long sleeves I cut the sleeves about 6 inches long and omitted the ribbed cuff and omitted the rib edge of the dress.

Number three I lengthen the skirt by 2 1/2 inches .

Number four instead of cutting the back on the fold I cut it so that I would have a central back  seam.

This project was completed in one night it took about four hours with all of the modifications from cut of pattern pieces to hem of the dress.
. My daughter wore this dress the very next morning.  Unfortunately, II forgot to take pictures of my daughter wearing this dress.  I will have to take photos the next time she wears it.

I absolutely love this dress and how it looks on my daughter I'm not sure if I'm going to make this pattern again maybe next time I'll make it the way it is intended with the front placket and the grommets.

 Mood fabric
This was my first time ordering from Mood Fabric.  I am very happy with my purchase.

Sewing Pattern Review

Pattern Description:

Misses' Knit Tops, Dresses, Shorts, and Pants
Loose fitting tops and dresses have pocket, length and hem variations. A, C, D: Rib knit cuffs and bands. Fitted pull on shorts and pants have rib knit waistband.
 

Pattern Sizing:

I cut a size 14
 

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

Not exactly because I made him some out of Modifications to the pattern
 

Were the instructions easy to follow?

The pattern instructions were pretty easy to follow us get quite a few stops because I made some modifications.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?

there's nothing to this like about this pattern.
 

Fabric Used:

Knit from Mood Fabric.
 

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:

Please see conclusion.
 

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?

I will definitely make this pattern again probably in a sweater or sweatshirt fabric for the winter which is typically kind a like fall weather but it sounds Florida and with the Romans as originally intended for this pattern
 

Conclusion: 

 When I made this pattern my daughter and I had plans to go out the following day.  I wanted to make something really quick.  This dress took about four hours to make but I made quite a few modifications.   I folded the front of the dress I cut the front of the dress on the fold and omitted the steps for the Grommets.  I knew that skipping the grommets would shave an hour or two half.

The following day when she worked she looked great in the dress I do kind of wish that I had made this dress with grommets.  

Help needed

Here is my dream dress!  I know you've seen it on my blog before.

I was shopping at the mall yesterday and saw a lime green knit dress just like this one.  The one at the mall was not exactly the same but it was close enough to remind me of Vogue 1531.

I fell in love with this pattern all over again.  So I have to make it.  I have to, have to, have to!!!

More fitting issues but a different project. SMH!

I made this bodice muslin a long time ago.  My birthday is coming up and I would like to wear this dress.  

The neckline is too big.  What should I do?

I think the back looks good.  Right?

PROGRESS REPORT

Coming Soon:

• Simplicity 8383
• McCall 7436
• Pencil Skirt
• Tween Skirt

15 Minutes of Sewing

McCall 7543-Step 8 narrow hemming the sleeves. 

Summer Sewing Plan: 6 more...

Vogue 1531-Muslin stage  (now on the top of my list)
Simplicity 3182-Almost done!
New Look 6434-pattern cut
Simplicity 8304-done. Photos coming soon
See & Sew 5908-pattern and fabric cut
Vogue 8898- need to select fabric

Sewing Basket
Kwik Sew Mom Top

Fall Sewing Plan:  There's 30 items on my list.  That's not realistic.  My head is spinning just thinking about it.  I am going start over.  I might make a capsule.  Oh that's a great idea.

Working with Eyelet Simplicity 1451

I broke a needle.  Yes I did!  Another dangerous fabric crossed off my sewing bucket list.  I didn't realize eyelet fabric could be so dangerous. Eyelet is such a beautiful fabric.  I especially love it in the summer.  I decided to make my toddler a cute top using Simplicity 1451. This was my second time working with this pattern.  It was easier to make this pattern the second time around.  Kinda.  Let's just say the pattern was easier but the fabric is dangerous!

The needle of my sewing machine broke as it was going over the heavily embroidered part of the fabric.

Sewing Pattern Review

Pattern Description:

Toddlers' Easy to Sew dresses, top, cropped pants and shorts make a complete summer wardrobe for your toddler. Dresses and top can be made with trims or ruffles. Shorts and Pants have elastic waistband.

Pattern Sizing:

1/2 to 4

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

Yes 

Were the instructions easy to follow?

Yes

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?

I love this pattern.  There is nothing to dislike.

Fabric Used:

 Eyelet

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:

This time around I did not make and changes.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?

 I might make this pattern one more time.

Conclusion: 

I have made this pattern before.  I had a super cute Eyelet fabric  in my stash that I think I bought at Joann's.  Anywho, this was my first time working with Eyelet.  While sewing over a heavily embroidered section my needle broke.  I did not realize how dangerous Eyelet could be.  After breaking a needle, I knew I had to slow done.  I hand turned my sewing needle over the heavily embroidered areas of the fabric.  The bodice is lined  with Cotton voile.  I cut a size 2 which is large on my toddler.  I love this pattern and will definitely make it again.  My daughter wore this top with a pair of leggings I made using Simplicity 8304.

PROGRESS REPORT

Coming Soon:

• Simplicity 8383
• McCall 7436
• Pencil Skirt
• Tween Skirt

15 Minutes of Sewing

McCall 7543-Step 8 narrow hemming the sleeves. 

Summer Sewing Plan: 6 more...

Simplicity 3182-Almost done!
Vogue 1531-Muslin stage
New Look 6434-pattern cut
Simplicity 8304-done. Photos coming soon
See & Sew 5908-pattern and fabric cut
Vogue 8898- need to select fabric

Sewing Basket
Kwik Sew Mom Top

Fall Sewing Plan:  There's 30 items on my list.  That's not realistic.  My head is spinning just thinking about it.  I am going start over.  I might make a capsule.  Oh that's a great idea.

Superhero shorts Burda 9641

This is becoming a trend now.   I never have enough fabric to complete a project.   I know the real reason why color blocking was invented.  The designer who started the color blocking trend is a knuckle head like me and never buys enough fabric.  Lol!

This journey began with standing in the fabric store with my son.  He made a valid point.  He told me that I have not made anything for him and that hurt my feelings.  I had to make it up to him.  So I asked him to select the fabric he wanted me to use.  It was like a kid in the candy store.  Finally he came back with three different fabrics.  I bought all three.  Then he told me he wanted a pair of superhero shorts.  We didn't find any superhero fabric that he liked.  The next day we were in Wal-Mart buying school supplies and what does he do.  He walks over to the fabric section and runs back to me with the fabric that he wants.

Confession
I have to admit that I delayed starting this project because I was afraid that I would screw it up.  I spent a lot of time studying a pair of my son's shorts to see the small details that I could add to my project in order for them to look as close to ready to wear as possible

Fitting
Did I think this was going to be an easy project? NO!  I was shaking in my socks.  I took every step super slow.  I did not want to fail and disappoint my son. 
To determine the size to cut, I compared the pattern pieces to a pair of my son's RTW shorts.  That saved me so much time.

Sewing Process
For some odd reason, I did not start with step one.  My main focus was the flap so I started there.  I knew if I could get the flaps right that I everything else would go smoothly.

After working out the details of the flap I decided to go back to step one and work on the yoke.  Then to realize that I did not cut out two of the pattern pieces.  That's when the most horrible thing happen. I did not have enough fabric for the yoke.  No Problem! Right? Color block! This is a great opportunity to cover block.  The yokes were made with a green Fat Quarter. I actually like the green yoke.  The fabric is very color so the yokes balance it a little bit.  Don't you think?

Sewing Pattern Review

Pattern Description:

Casual trousers/pants in three lengths with elastic waistband and belt carriers - easy to sew as the fastening/closure is only for show! Trousers/pants A & B have hip-yoke pockets and side flapped pockets. Trousers/pants C have patch pockets with slanted openings.
 

Pattern Sizing:

6 to 16
 

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

Yes, for the most part.
 

Were the instructions easy to follow?

They were easy to follow except for one step. 
 

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?

I did not like how the order of one of the steps.
 

Fabric Used:

Cotton
 

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:

I did not install the belt carriers.  This was such a casual print fabric that I felt the belt carriers were a little much.  I wanted the print to speak for itself so I did not install the side pockets.
 

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?

I do plan to make this pattern again in the near future.  Most likely in a denim or twill.
 

Conclusion:

 My son wanted a pair of shorts and found this fabric during one of my shopping trips.

Step 14 was frustrating.  I decided to make this pattern with a lightweight cotton.  Step 14 instructs you to add a rectangular piece of fabric to the front.  Why didn't it show that step before sewing the crotch area? 

Rectangular piece for step #14 

When I added the rectangular piece it looked really weird but somehow it works.

 

Front view of the rectangular piece after adding it to the crotch

The directions did not explain how to add the rectangular piece and what to do with it.  I had to get creative.  Thankfully I am not brand new to sewing.  If this was my first sewing pattern I am confident that I would have given up on this project. 

I folded the rectangular piece in half.  With the  fabric folded the half I stitched down the original crotch line. The rectangular fabric added the extra support that my fabric needed.  

I had so much trouble topstitchint the crotch area. After three tries, I drew the topstitch line on the 

fabric and I still couldn't get it right.  You know what that means: time to practice.

 

Playing at the Park

This pattern's length is a little longer than  I would have liked.  Next time, I will shorten the hem by 5/8 of an inch.

Goofing around with my husband.  They're so silly!

Simplicity Fall Pattern Release

Why didn't Simplicity release their prefall patterns with their fall pattern.  I felt like they released their pre-fall patterns about a month ago.  Anywho.

Mimi G did it again!  I am not sure if I am in love with the pattern itself or the fabric.  Oh my gentle heart!

Simplicity 8466: I am in love with the skirt.  I have to have this pattern.  This pattern is officially on my Fall Sewing Plan. 

Simplicity 8451 Is FIRE!  Oooo I need a fire extinguisher!  I would love to try my hand at this lined coat with the large collar.  Oh my word.

Simplicity 8459:  View B would be cute on my tween.  I want View A.  Maybe we could be twinzies!

Simplicity 8453:  I am in love with view C.  The cold shoulder with the assymmetic hem is to die for! 

Simplicity 8458:  I'm not really into vintage patterns but I am in love with View A.  The buttons with the bias binding gives this skirt some 'tude. I think I would like this skirt a little fuller like the line drawing.

Simplicity 8473: I am obsesses with capes.  I was planning to make a cape this fall.   Maybe this pattern will make it on my list.

Simplicity 8455:  Sleeves!!!  Especially View C and D.

Simplicity 8471: View A is too cute.  It I understand this correctly, this is an overlay for Ashley Tipton's pattern 8345.  Very clever! 

Simplicity 8454:  I NEED view C and maybe view B.

Simplicity 8472: I am in love with Ashley Tipton's designs.  Trench coats! 

Simplicity 8470: Love love love

8465:  This is a cute a cute twist top for work.

Simplicity 8457:  This pattern comes in average, slim, and curvy.  I love the pleats with the cuffs. 

My Tween and I, went to the movies the other day.  Guess what I wore!  You know it!  McCall 7602.  I decided to shorten the straps and that did the trick.  Now there's not a lot of boob action.  Anddddddd the armhole is not as revealing.  I will have to keep that in mind for my next version of this pattern.

New Look 6522 Cold Shoulder Dress

Sewing Pattern Review

Pattern Description:

The perfect big sister little sister dresses for any summer party. Pattern includes maxi and above knee length dresses and a high low hem top. Dresses and tops can be made sleeveless with a large bow tie at neck or with a cold shoulder sleeve. All views have back keyhole opening at the collar. New Look Sewing patterns are always all sizes in one at one low price.

Pattern Sizing:

3 to 7 and 8 to 14

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

Yes it does.

Were the instructions easy to follow?

Great directions.  I had to look up two terms "layer seam" and "stitch a scant."  The layer seam was easy and I know I will use this technique again. 

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?

This is a great pattern for a cute trendy dress.

Fabric Used:

Cotton

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:

None

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?

Yesssss!

Conclusion: 

 My 6 year old (mini model) saw this pattern and knew it was for her.  Lol! I was not sure how to approach this pattern because my daughter is slim and tall.  I cut a size 5 all around but cut the size 7 in length.  This was a perfect fit.  The neckline was kind of tricky and I could have done better.  I will definitely try this dress again.

I couldn't seem to get the "stitch a scant" right.  After stitching the seam, I could not manage to turn the loop right side out. 

I made the loops the same way I make spaghetti straps. 

The loops came out nicely.

Cold shoulder

 Progress Report

15 Minutes of Sewing

Burda 9641: Shorts for my son.  Done!  Photos coming soon
Next up is a tunic.

Progress Report:

Simplicity 8383-I made it!  Yes.  It's cute!  Until I burned it.  Stay tune for my next post.  I ordered some fabric online to make this pattern again.  I am not happy with my select.  I purchased a creamy pink from Fashion Fabric.  The color is not as cute as it looked only.  I think I am going to look from a print instead.  This was my first time ordering from Fashion Fabric.  I am not too happy with my order.  One fabric description was a "Chocolate Dark Cocoa but it is not dark at all.  Maybe it is faded.  I don't know.  I think I am going to stick to my regular Online fabric stores. 

Oh yeah.  I almost forgot to mention.  I purchased some fabric from Mood Fabric and they're fabric is divine.  I can't wait to cut into them.

Skirt Fit-a-long:  I am working on Week 2. My pattern is cut and muslin fabric cut. Next up is putting it together and fitting.

Tween Series:  My eldest daughter completed her project.  Photos coming soon.

Summer Sewing Plan: 7 more...

Simplicity 3182-Almost done!
Vogue 1531-Muslin stage
New Look 6434-pattern cut
Simplicity 8304-done. Photos coming soon
See & Sew 5908-pattern and fabric cut
McCall 7543-pattern and fabric cut
Vogue 8898- need to select fabric

Fall Sewing Plan: This list is getting super long.

Vogue 1550?

McCall 6886

McCall 7542

McCall 7315

McCall 7042

McCall 7571

McCall 7572

McCall 7322

McCall 6751

McCall 7429



Vogue Fall 2017 Pattern Release and Burda August Issue

Sorry! I haven't had much time to sew and post. July was a crazy month! I started 5 projects but I haven't had enough motivation to complete any of them. Just pitiful! Hopefully I will projects done in August.

Before, I get carried away. Let's move on to the Vogue Fall pattern Release.

Sadly, I am not thrilled about this release. I know. I know it's Vogue so there's always at least one pattern that I cannot live without. This release is meh.

Vogue 1558 has pleats in the waistline.  IF and thats a strong if.  If I make this dress i would make it with a solid fabric.  I think burgundy would be nice.

 

Vogue 9276 View C and A both nice.  I don't know what's going on View D.

Vogue 9272 it is a basic tunic.  Everyone needs an everyday tunic.

Vogue 1559.I love every pattern Guy Laroche designs.  This is cute but not for me.   Pattern Hack Idea:  Use the bodice of this pattern to make an off the shoulder jacket.  That would be cute!!!

Vogue 1556  well I love the belt.  I hate wearing shirts under dresses.  So remove the shirt and raise the neckline and we might have a winner.

Vogue 9265 This has some potential.  Lengthening the sleeve would make this look cute.  Yes!  I might pick up this pattern.

Vogue 9267  I love patterns with multiple options.  It makes it easier to hack the pattern.

 

Vogue 9266 This is cute even though this look was worn by Mrs. Trump.

Vogue 9268 Cute hem but it would be cuter with a round neckline.

Vogue 1554 I love the lace in the hem.  This pattern has some potential.  I can't wait to see the different version in the Sewing Community.

That's all she wrote!  Drop the mic!

There's 5 Ufos in my sewing bag,that I am determine to complete this month.  First up a pair of shorts for my son.

 

This is what happens when you're son select the fabric.  He wanted all of his favorite superheroes in one place.

Have you seen the Burda August patterns?  Fabu!!!!

This dress is divine!  This looks advance so I will probably never make this.

I'm not sure what's going on with the model's slip but this dress. Wow! 

This is hot!  Especially in Red.

Oh my goodness.  I don't know which view I love the most, short, midi, and long all cute.

Long version!  I must have.

This skirt would be cute on my tween.

 The animal print with the belt.  I am

 Another great skirt.

YES!!!!!

I have to try this pattern.

Help!!! Where can I purchase the August 2017 magazine without having to purchase a year long subscription? 

Well, that's all for now.  Hopefully my next post will be a pattern review for a complete project.