Birthday Girl And Simplicity 1507

Look who's 2!  My little one just celebrated her 2nd birthday.  Time really flies.  I feel like I just brought her home from the hospital and now she’s an active toddler.

I knew I had to make my Lily Bop a birthday dress.

This adventure started during a trip to Joann.  I found this gorgeous pink fabric with lace. I purchased 2 yards and then went out in search of a matching fabric to make the bodice.  I found the matching fabric at my local fabric store.

I used Simplicity 1507 size 2 for the bodice and self drafted the skirt.  This is not my  first time making a children’s dress; so This  was an easy make.  Next time I want to make view B with the collar.

Have a wonderful weekend and happy sewing!

Denim Burda Hoodie Dress Burda 6457

The minute I laid eyes on Burda 6457 I knew I had to make it.  I was going to make this pattern for myself but my eldest daughter was googalee  eyeing the pattern cover.  So I make it for her.

I love to see her smile.  She brings me joy!

This was my first time working with denim. I used a denim needle to sew this together and denim thread to top stitch.  There was a lot of top stitching.

Now that I am looking at this I see can’t believe that I made this dress.  Amazing!!!

Next week I am going to take a few days off from work.  I want to work on some sprojects and also clean out my closet.  

 I plan to make a few items:

-McCall 6886 #2

-A skirt

-a dress for my 7 year old

- a pair of shorts for my eldest 

If I have time I am going to work on a pair of shorts for my son 

I hope you have a great weekend.  Happy sewing!

Christening Gown McCall 6221

I had the greatest honor of making my daughter's Christening gown.  For the baby,  I originally wanted a super long gown like the royal family.  I searched near and far for the perfect pattern and came across McCall 6221.

I chose this pattern because of the super long skirt and also the puff sleeves I think the sleeves  are adorable and add a special touch to the dress
During the first dress fitting I realized that my daughter is a running toddler.  So a super long royal family gown would lead to a super horrible accident.  So That dream went out the door.

I cut a size extra  large based on the pattern measurements for my daughter I should've cut a size large the skirt for a size large was ridiculously long.

This pattern calls for lace, an underlining and a lining.  The sleeve did not call for an underlining for the lake but I reminded him with the satin fabric so that it was uniform with the remainder of the dress

The difficult part was shorter than the skirt and determining how much to remove from the skirt in order to the cheese my desired look I also added a petticoat under the skirt to add a little bit of volume

I am still trying to update you guys on my makes since December 2017.

I have made 29 items so far.  Please do not be upset if I post photos without a full pattern review.  That’s all for today.

Happy sewing!

Lily Dedication--Simplicity

 What have you been up to?  I know I haven’t posted any updates since the beginning of the year. Please forgive me.  I haven’t had much time to post but I have made quite a few items since my last post.  I can’t wait for you to see all of my makes.  I will make a solid effort to update you on everything you’ve missed.

In December, we decided to dedicate my youngest three daughters.  It was difficult to find Rtw dresses for all three so I decided to make them dresses.

Trying to make the perfect dress is the three beautiful little girl was a very difficult task and required some creativity.



I used the same pattern for two of the dresses, Simplicity 8351.   This pattern was easy to make.  I can see myself using this pattern again in the near future.  The lace for my 3year olds dress can be found at Joann's.

I had a horrible time with the lace.  I wanted to make a petticoat but the lace and netting did not agree.

My three year old

My seven year old

New Years Eve Skirt

I had about an hour before I had to leave for work.  I decided that I wanted a new skirt to wear to church tonight.  35 minutes later, I made this.  Can you believe it!  This beginner sewer made a skirt with no pattern.  Watch out now!!

Fabric-black knit with gold specks from Joann.  My photos does not do this fabric justice..

I wore my new skirt with a black peplum top and some heels.

This past week, I haven’t done much sewing since then.  I seriously injured my right thumb.  The pain is horrible and I can’t baste or use scissors.  So I’ve caught up on some of my shows.  Hopefully in a week or so, I will be back to full speed.

What have you made this year?  What are your plans for his month?  Happy Sewing!

Polka Dots Anyone! McCall’s Stitch and Save 9021

You can never have too many tops. Sad to say, I don’t know if this top is for me.  Don’t get me wrong. I made this top but I am not happy with the final product.  It is cute and I love cowlneck tops but this top is not flattering on me.

I have looked high and low for a cowlneck top sewing pattern.  Unfortunately, I will have to continue my search.

This is view A of McCall’s Easy Stitch  N Save 9021 which is Also McCall’s 6563.
I cut a size large all around and a size XXL bust.

My Likes:  It’s cowlneck and I love cowlneck tips.  The fabric is

My Dislikes: There's some pulling in the bust area.  The pulling in the bust region looks weird.  the neckline is too big.  Maybe I should have cut a size Medium for the neckline.

The fabric I used is pink and black polka dot ITY knit from Fabric Mart.

I made this top as part of my Fall sewing plan.  I have quite a few projects left to post.  Stay tuned for that.

I’ve also made some progress on my goal for this month.  I can’t wait for you see what I have been working on.  What have you been up to?  Do you have a goal for the month of January?  Feel free to leave comments below.

Happy Sewing!

Happy birthday Mummy! McCall 7630

My mother just celebrated a milestone birthday-the big 60.  My kummy looks great for hr age and I hope I look just as good as she does when I hit 60.  Mummy’s falls the day after New Year.  Even in the womb my mother was brilliant. She was smart enough to ensure her birthday did not fall on a major holiday.

Unfortunately it rained all day and we didn’t do much.  She did not want to go outside and I don’t blame her.  So this weekend we will celebrate.  I decided to make her a top as one of the many presents I gave her for her big day.  A few months ago I purchased this gorgeous fabric from Fabric Mart.  This fabric is a black/Ivory Floral Print 100% Polyester Crinkle Charmeuse 52W and it was super easy to sew.

My mom is but I told her that she could not have it.  I knew I was going to make something for her with this fabric. I just couldn’t figure out what to make.  Then I found this pattern, McCall 7630, in my stash.  My mom loves large sleeves so I decided to make View D.  Plus View D of this pattern would show off this beautiful fabric.

This pattern did not take long to make.  From pattern cutting to final hemming only took a few hours.

After making this pattern for my mom I know I have to make one for myself.

Sleeve—isn’t this gorgeous!

Too Cute!

Modification:  I made some modifications to the pattern. I decided to add a back slit and a cute button in the back.  

BUTTON DETAIL:  Have to love a cute button.

This was a great make. My mummy has not worn this top yet so I will try to post a photo of her wearing it. Next on my list... UFO items and some more of my Fall makes.

Happy Sewing!

2018 Let's Go!

Happy New Year!!!!!!!!

I mentioned in my Year End Review that there were a few patterns that I would like to make in 2018. I’m not sure where to start but I know I want to complete at least 2 of the 4 patterns.  In addition to the 2 patterns, I have a few  additional goals to accomplish in 2018.  Here’s what I want to achieve in the new year:

2018 Goals:
-Master installing a neckline

-Face my fear of making pants
-Make a garment with Grommets
-Make a garment using an Indie Pattern
-Continue working on the art of fitting

I am officially calling January UFO month.  I would love to complete ever UFO in my WIP bag.  Next I want to make something to wear for my anniversary in February.  

February 
   February is the month of months because  I want to make the 2 patterns listed above.  And make my first pair of pants!!! Never let your fears keep you from reaching for the skies.

I haven’t figured out the remainder of the year, but I guess it’s okay to have the first two months planned.

What do you have planned for this month.

2017 Wrap Up

Here we are!  The end of 2017.  Where did the year go?  I have learned a lot this year and made less than I planned.  In the beginning of the year, I planned on making 100 projects.  I was pretty ambitious considering this beginning my 1st Sewing Year. I have made a total of 55 items and 24 of them for myself.  I was very productive in the month of December!  Matter of fact:  I made a skirt this morning.  Go figure!  

The beginning of this year, I was purchasing fabric, sewing patterns, and notions like Joann’s was going out of business.  Thankfully by the end of the year the desire to shop has disappeared.

2017 was an emotionally draining year.   My father-in-law passed away in January.  My family and I still haven’t come to terms with it.  This morning I grabbed my cell phone because I was going to call him to wish him a happy new year.  It was at that moment that it dawned on me. I couldn’t call him on the phone.  That moment made me realize that I still have some healing to do.

 My husband and I both changed jobs this year.   There was a lot going on my first two weeks At this new property.  The chaos really took a toll on me and even worse a toll on my family.  I was leaving my home at 5 AM and not getting home until 10 pm some times later.  I’m six weeks into this role I feel that it’s getting a little better.  I’ve made gradual changes which is the key to keeping my sanity I am working with a great team though that’s open minded so This makes the transition a little easier 

Well let’s get started with this Year End Review.

I’ve accomplished three big goals this year!

1)      Sewing Knits

2)      Working with a Serger

3)      Installing a neckline

Now on to the bad...UFOs

I have a lot of UFOs.  I’m not sure how I ended up with so many UFOs.  In 2018, I am going to dedicate the month of January to completing UFOs and mending some garments.  Some of my projects just need to be hemmed.  Others need a little more love.

UFOs-Need to complete

-See and Sew 5908 pants

-Olive McCall 7441 (I’ve worn this jacket a few times) -finish the sleeves

-McCall 6886 LBD-  Just needs hemming

-Simplicity 1249 dress

-McCal 7542 Turquoise top- need to install the facing

-Turquoise dress Burda 9438---need to install the pockets

-Pink bow dress See & Sew 5629

-See and Sew blouse 6475--need to install the facing

-Simplicity 8519 Pants 

Going to the Doctor (me) for mending

-Simplicity 1283 African Print skirt

-Simplicity 1283 Red velvet zipper back skirt

-Vogue 1531 coral dress

-McCall 9021 pink polka dot top (the neckline is too big)

-Pink tulle skirt

-McCall 7440 mend sleeves

-Pink floral Simplicity 1382

-Camouflage jacket Burda 7734

-McCall 6884 wrap dress 

Ok so now for the 2017 Garment Awards

My favorite garment is my Bohemian Style Skirt New Look 6516.  Every time I wear it I feel like I am on vacation.

My favorite and only Mommy and Me Outfit

Favorite Formal Outfit:

Favorite Jacket



















Favorite Dress(es)  I couldn't decide on one

 

Favorite Poncho

My most worn garment is Simplicity 8379 which is a house dress!  I am thinking about making this pattern again in a solid knit to wear out.  Let’s see how that goes.

My most difficult make was Vogue 1531:

My quickest make:

You ever feel like you made a mistake by not making a pattern.  Well, this year I wish I made the following patterns:

McCall 7626

McCall 7627

Simplicity 8414

Simplicity 8415

I know I can make these patterns in 2018, but sometimes I walk into my closet and say “I have nothing to wear.”  Then out of nowhere, one of the four patterns listed above pops into my mind.  Then I say out loud “I wish I made that pattern.”  I do not want to say those words ever again.  So in February I would like to make at least 2 of the 4 patterns listed above.  

How many garments did you sew in 2017?  Did you sew everything on your sewing plan?  Thank you for stopping by and have a wonderful NEW YEAR!

Poncho for Autumn, Simplicity 8428

I am really behind on my posts.  There's quite a few projects that I need to update you on. 


A few months ago, I will looking for a pattern to make for my 3 year old.  I came across this poncho pattern and knew I had to make it.  I decided to use a fleece fabric.  I've worked with Fleece before, so this was an easy project.  Check out my previous fleece projects here.   This is my first time making a Poncho and definitely

I decided to make View A without the ruffles.  The butterfly applique was purchased at Wal-Mart.

Sewing Pattern Review

Pattern Description:

This adorable Child's poncho is featured in two lengths with or without a hood and pockets.

Pattern Sizing:

S-M-L

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?

The pattern was very easy to make.  The instructions included tips for working with fleece.  Most of the tips in the instructions mirrored my Fleece tips from my previous post ( link post here)

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?

There's nothing to dislike about this pattern.

Fabric Used:

Fleece 

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:

I decided not to add the ruffles.  If I make this pattern again, I will make it with the ruffles .  I would also add ruffles to the good.

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

I would love to sew this pattern again but I have quite a few items on my sewing plan.  

Conclusion: 

This poncho was very easy to make.   I took my time making this project and enjoyed the sewing process.  My sewing machine struggled with the thickness of the fleece fabric.  I will avoid using fleece for a while.  

This was my first time hand pick.  So it took me some time to wrap my head and hands around it.  Lol! If anything I would say this is a perfect for a beginner.  

My favorite part of this poncho is the neckline and the butterfly applique..

Fall Sewing Plan

27 more projects in 57 days

5 tops

2 skirts

1 pair of pants or a jumpsuit (first time for everything 

7 dresses

1 cape

2 tops for my tween

2 shorts for my son

1 romper for my 3 year old

1 dress for my 3 year old 

Add on----> Poncho for my 3 year old!  I will make changes to my sewing plan later.

2 dresses for my 6 year old 

2 rompers for my toddler

1 dress for my mom

And something for DH--> Done. Check out my post here

Hello December

Hello December!  There is so much that I need to update you guys on.  I have not been consistent about my posts but I have been sewing.  I am going to work on catching you guys up on my Fall Sewing Plan and My Winter sewing plan.  I need to work on photos.  That is truly the reason why I haven't posted anything in almost a month.  That and my new job is keeping me busy.

A few months ago, I tried to make 30 items in 90 days.  Did I achieve that goal?  Drum Roll Please.  Nooo.  Epic fail.  I made 19 items.  So for the winter my sewing plan is to complete the remaining items from my Fall Plan and add some staple items to my wardrobe.  I definitely would like to try that challenge again.  So maybe this coming spring I will try it again... it being "30 items in 90 days."

This is the pattern that I am working on today.  My next post will have some of my fall projects. 

 

Make 30 in 90 days

I did not complete the 30 in 90 challenge.  I started a new job and have not had any time to sew.  I made a total of 5 items.  It's sad I know.  Maybe I will try this challenge again some day.

 

Have a wonderful week. Enjoy!

Last Minute Sewing Kwik Sew 3497

Well I am here!  I am sorry that I have not posted any of my recent projects. It has been a crazy 3 weeks.  I transferred to a new property and I have had to adjust to the change.  The first two days I thought I had made the wrong decision to transfer there.  But now I realized that I am here for a reason and my goal is to improve my department. So I am going to give this property 200%.  Change is never easy but it is worth it.

I’ve relied on my family and sewing to calm my nerves.  Now if I can find time to take pictures we will be on the right foot.

Yesterday I woke up and decided to make a top to wear to work.  I chose Easy Stitch -n- save McCall 9144 which is also Kwik Sew 3497.  This top was made with sleeves.  I decided to use the sleeves from Kwik Sew 4207.

For Kwik Sew 3497/Easy Stitch -n- save 9144 was cut in a size medium neckline, Extra Large bust, and the remainder of the top in a size Large.  I made a mistake with cutting the back piece.  I forgot to cut the neckline.  So I made me own neckline instead of using the pattern piece.  So the back neckline is a little lower than the pattern piece.  Then I cut the size Large sleeves from Kwik Sew 4207.  This is a great top to wear under blazers and cardigans.

The fabric I used was purchased at Joann’s in May.  It was a 1 yard remnant and I was determined to make a shell with this fabric.

This was a very quick sew.  I used my serger to make most of this top and finish the neckline, sleeves, and hem with my sewing machine.

I have a few more remnants in my stash that I would like to use as tops.  I will probably use this pattern a few more times before I retire it.

If you have this pattern definitely make it.

Screenshot Frenzy

Screenshot Frenzy

November 11, 2017

Good afternoon!  My apologies for not pushing on Friday.  This has been an interesting week.  I am completely drained.  I do have great news.  I applied for a position at one of the sister properties and I was offered the position.  Unfortunately, I only have one week to wrap up everything here.  With all of this and really life and trying to meet deadlines, I have had an exhausting week. 

It's now time for my favorite (besides posting completed projects)! Screenshot FRENZY!

Everyone knows I love black and white prints.  This is no exception!  This is a great go to work look and or going out in the town look.

Classy Jumpsuit:  This bright yellow jumpsuit is gorgeous.  I love the tie front belt, ruffle sleeves, and wide legs.  Super cute.

This jumpsuit is gorgeous with the split sleeve and the back has a beautiful cape like look .

This Ankara top is a great look.  I love how the peplum off shoulder and sleeve come together to make a killer top.

Cute! Cute! Cute!

Vavavoom!  I think this is gorgeous and simple at the same time.  The off shoulder and the hourglass shape makes this dress a show stopper.

This is a vintage  dress and  it's super cute.

This is a quilted velvet skirt.  This skirt is gorgeous.

This dress from Liligal is cute because of the tie front.  This is my first time finding a long sleeve tie front dress. 

This top is the BUSINESS!!!!  I LOVE.  This look is achievable.  Use McCall 7325 as a guide.

Yves Saint Laurent is one of my favorite designers but out of my price range.

I love this animal print cardigan.

Another cute and simple dress from Yves Saint Laurent.  You can achieve this look with Simplicity 8415.

This graphic leather jacket by Yves Saint Laurent is hot!

I really love this suede skirt also by Yves Saint Laurent.  I have some suede in my fabric stash.  This might be the start of something.

My Favorite Screenshot Frenzy Look:

No words!  Just drop the mic!  Lol!  This gown is on trend and gorgeous!

Well that's all that I have for you this week. Which screenshot did you love the most? Have a great weekend!