Bow tie neck top

Guys!

I was online and came across  Meghan McCain’s leopard print bow tie neck blouse.  I instantly fell in love! 

I only own one bow tie neck blouse but it is RTW and it looks horrible on me.  I don't know about you but, when I buy RTW plus size clothing it either fits perfectly or not at all.  This blouse does not fit at all.  I wear size 38G and I usually have to buy blouses in a size 18 and hope and pray they fit just right. 

So in order to own a great fitting bow tie neck blouse, I would have to make it myself.

So I set out in search of the perfect pattern.  There’s sooooo many different options.  It’s crazy!

Just from my online search, I found the following patterns:

McCall 7868 View B
McCall 7436 View D
Simplicity 8216 View C
Burda 6460 View A
New Look 6471 View A
Burda 6840 View B
Butterick 6133 View A
Butterick 6419 View B and C
Marfy F5209
Marfy F5168
Butterick 6378 View A and B
Butterick 6563 View B
Simplicity 1779 View C
Vogue 9204
Pussy Bow Blouse by Sew Over It
Simplicity 8131 Has 6 views (my favorite views B, D, and F)
Simplicity 8593 View A and B

There's probably more but this list is long enough.  So it was time to narrow down my options.  First I had to look at the pattern lines and the patterns currently in my stash.

McCall 7868 View B
McCall 7436 View D
Simplicity 8216 View C
Burda 6460 View A
New Look 6471 View A
Burda 6840 View B
Butterick 6133 View A
Butterick 6419 View B and C
Marfy F5209
Marfy F5168
Butterick 6378 View A and B
Butterick 6563 View B
Simplicity 1779 View C
Vogue 9204
Pussy Bow Blouse by Sew Over It
Simplicity 8131 Has 6 views (my favorite views B, D, and F)
Simplicity 8593 View A and B

Here's the final contestants:

 

So now I need to find a nice leopard print fabric for my perfect top.  More to come soon.

 

By the way...

As I was in the mist of my search for the perfect blouse, I found a few more blouses I would like my hand at.

McCall 7836 View B
McCall 7688 View B
Burda 6525 View C
Simplicity 8840 View D
Simplicity 8791 View C
Simplicity 8693 View D
Butterick 6628 View A
Simplicity 8593 View E
Butterick 5945 View A (For my 5 year old)
Marfy F3466

There's so many great patterns but not enough time to make them all.  Have a wonderful weekend.

Tis the Season

Merry Christmas!  This season I decided to make some items that did have a lot of steps.  Sometimes we need a break from complicated projects.

I decided to make Burda 6754.  These slippers are sooooooo comfortable.

Next, Christmas decor pillows.  I found all of the fwbric at Joann’s.

 

Then I can across this beautiful fabric in the clearance section in Joann’s.  2 yards of this fabric was transformed into a tablecloth.  This is definitely my favorite make this month.

 

 

  Sadly enough I had to work today it’s a good thing because I got to spend time with my coworkers and thankfully I had the day off yesterday.  So I spent Christmas Eve with my family.

During my lunch break I tired decided to take a look at the McCall’s early spring patterns there’s quite a few patterns that I want to make. The question of the day is where will I have found find time to make so many different patterns.   McCall 7899 is my all-time favorite with the pleated waistline.

Have a wonderful holiday season!



 

Yellow and Black Blouse Simplicity 8601

Happy Thursday!

So you’re probably wondering how I faired with my 4 day weekend.  First I must say, I needed an extended work break.  I mean I really needed it.  See I work a lot.  I usually start my work day at 7am.  12 to 13 hour days are common.  I must admit that I am working less now than I used to work this time last year but still I work a lot.

My extended weekend entailed very little rest but I a lot of time with my family.  Much needed time to catch up.  My kids were thrilled.  I felt like I was attacked by my mini mes.  We colored watches movies read Christmas stories, danced, and cooked together. On the last day of my extended weekend I realized I was exhausted.  By then I knew I couldn’t do anything about it.  Nor would I change anything about how I spent my days off.  

I was able to make one thing.  My poor sewing wish list did not have a chance against my energetic children.

So I made Simplicity 8601 view A. When this partner was released I knew I had to make it.  I don’t know why it took me so long to make it.  I found this fabric at Walmart.  This fabric was easy to work it.

Modifications:  I cut the wrong sleeve size. The sleeve was too big for the armhole.  So I gathered the shoulder area.

  

I wore this blouse to work.  A few hours into the work day, I realized I forgot the hem the bottom of the blouse.  No problem. I tucked my blouse into my pants and rocked it.  

I will definitely make this pattern again.

What did you do Thanksgiving weekend?  Did you get any sewing done?

Absent

Good morning!

I’ve been super busy and haven’t had time to sew.  It’s horrible how life can take all of your time and energy.  Right now I am suffering from Sewing Withdraw. Have you ever experienced Sewing Withdraw?  If I don’t touch a sewing machine or hold a sewing needle in my hand I might lose it.  So this week I am determined to make something.  I might start with something small like a skirt.

During my sewing absence, I continued to daydream about future projects.  Oh how I wish I had a magic wand.  I would make all of my daydreams come true.

Despite not getting to sew, I have been keeping up with the latest sewing patternsz. There’s a few patterns on my wish list.

Number one on my list Vogue 9349.  I want to make all 3 views!  I know my mom would love view C.

There’s a few patterns by Indie companies That I would like to try my hand at.

Hvar jacket by Itch to Stitch

Is one of them.  Can you see this jacket made with suede!


Next up is the Appleton dress by Cashmerette.

Hot patterns Fast and Fabolous drape

blouse

Mimi G Jessica dress

Megan Nielsen Matilda Dress

Sew Over It Pussy Bow Blouse

And I can’t leave out Gertie Charm Patterns Night and Day Dress.  I’m obsessed with the black round neckline dress trumpet skirt that Gertie is wearing


Earlier this year I tried a Lekala pattern.  I guess I didn’t do a good job with the measurements because the neckline and upper bodice was wonky.  I might try this pattern again later on this year.

Since my last post I have been looking for sewing classes in my neighborhood.  I figured if I join a sewing class that I would stay on track with my sewing plan. I haven’t had much success.

Let me know how You stay focused.

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!