I'm Published!

I wrote up a knitting pattern for my Ribbon Raglan Tee, it's available free.  I'm super excited and got some good photos of it, too :)  I've wanted to write and publish knitting patterns for some time but just hadn't had the energy.

I hurt my finger a couple weeks ago and have been trying not to use it, so typing is slow and difficult.  It also put the mittens on hiatus so there just hasn't been much to post about.  Embarrassed to say, but it's the reason I finally sewed the buttons on this sweater ;)

Knit Skirt How-To

Update: I goofed on the yardage!  Updated values include the waistband.

I took the pattern for this knit skirt from a yoga skirt I own.  The pattern and construction are very easy and flattering.  It doesn't have the beautiful drape of Tanit-Isis's gored knit skirt but the economical cut allowed me to sew a camisole from the leftovers :)

Depending on the degree of stretch in your fabric, desired fit, and your measurements, these dimensions can be changed.  I'm waist 71cm, hip 95cm.
Seam allowances of 1.25cm (1/2") and hem allowances of 2.25cm are included.

Fabric: 0.9m/1yd, 120cm/48"+ wide knit
A lightweight jersey with lycra is ideal; to reduce curling don't prewash.
Cut all pieces with the greatest degree of stretch horizontally (around your body).

Waistband: Cut one piece 30cm x 78cm, or two pieces 30 x 40cm and 30 x 41cm
Skirt: Cut two trapezoids as shown below.  I cut the back piece upside down since my print isn't directional.  Your yardage will differ if cutting both skirt pieces right side up.

*If your fabric is wide enough cut each half of the waistband from the triangular areas top left and bottom right in the diagram.  This will reduce the yardage to 0.6m/yd and make the Earth happy :)

If your fabric is sheer a second identical layer can be used as lining.  Treat both skirt layers as one.  If the lining has less recovery than the skirt fabric trim 2-3cm off the lining and hem separately.

Assembly: Using a narrow zig zag or serger, sew the short ends of the waistband right sides together.  Press open, fold in half lengthwise wrong sides together and press.  The waistband will be worn folded over.

Sew the skirt side seams.  Sew the folded waistband to the skirt's top edge, pinning and matching by quarters to ensure even distribution.  If you cut the waistband in one piece place that seam at center back.  Otherwise sew a piece of ribbon or a label to mark CB.  Press all seam allowances toward the skirt and topstitch.
  

Try on the skirt to check hem length and evenness.  Trim as needed and serge the hem if desired.  Turn up 2-2.5cm and stitch close to the raw edge.  I used a 3mm long x 2mm wide zig zag; a twin needle or coverstitch would also work well.  

Giveaway Winners!

Happy Saturday and congratulations to the giveaway winners:

S 1942

Lachlan, you are the lucky winner of Simplicity 1942!

S 8140

Carol wins Simplicity 8140!

B 3709

Angela, Butterick 3709 is yours.













Winners, please leave a comment with your email address and I will contact you shortly.
Thanks to everyone who participated in my first giveaway!

Quadruple Vintage Pattern Giveaway!

I missed my 100th post so am going all out for #110.  Help me celebrate by entering to win one of four vintage sewing patterns.  This giveaway is open to residents of the US and Canada (sorry everyone else).

To enter leave a comment saying which pattern you'd like, before April 7th.  You don't need to follow my blog to enter.  If you do follow my blog or mention this giveaway on your blog you'll be entered twice (please leave a comment so I know).

Simplicity 1942, size 20.5 B39 wrap dress.

A 1940s wrap dress with gathered waist and shoulders, and triple darted 3/4 sleeves.  The pattern pieces are printed and include the pocket embroidery transfer shown in the lower right corner.

Simplicity 8140, sz 14 B36 "step-in" dress ©1969

This fun double breasted dress has a bias collar and midriff.  I'd love to see this dress sewn up!

Vogue 9029, sz 12 B34 

"Loose-fitting dress or tunic has shaped partially standing side buttoned collar and buttoned side front inset band."

This dress is missing the instructions, maybe a brave sewist is willing to take on the challenge?

Butterick 3709, 14-16-18 (37.5-41.5" finished bust)

Lastly, an 80s wrap blouse for 30% stretch knits, in factory folds.  This could work with a woven with a few adjustments.  I especially like the sleeveless version.

Thank you for reading, and thank you for entering!

Vintage Sewing Patterns!

I bought a box of 1950s-60s patterns on eBay with the plan of using one or more for my plaid dress.  Most of the patterns are 32 bust, I'm 34/36.  Several others are half sizes (petite).  I think I can alter my dress block with good results.  Hope you enjoy the pattern pron!

I can't decide whether this is "sexy date night" or flight attendant.

If I run across some winter white dupioni or suiting I might have to make it up, with 3/4 sleeves.

One of my favorite pictures, not sure it would work on me.  Maybe wool doubleknit in version 1?

I immediately saw Jacki of Modern Twist in this dress.  She wears vintage so well!

I like view B for myself.

I don't normally like the angled darts of the 60s but I might try this dress, sans bow.  Assuming I don't have trouble grading up a size.

The lone 40s pattern of the bunch, with nice button detail down the front.

I'm not sure what I think of this pattern.  The a-line skirt is nice...

I really like the tie neckline, though the skirt looks too full for my everyday wear.  Bearing in mind that I almost always wear jeans ;)

Simple, straight fit, kimono sleeves, though how flattering is it on women without giraffe necks?

Love these pleats!  Plus the pattern is proportioned, so theoretically I wouldn't have to fuss with the bodice length (I'm 5'8").

(Am I the only one picturing an infinite line of ever-smaller women?)

I'm considering using this bodice pattern and the pleated skirt above for the plaid dress.  Especially if I can match the bodice darts with the skirt pleats.

I have four Mail Order patterns now and really like their flattering lines and architectural feel.

And a couple later patterns that I found at Goodwill.  I can see myself wearing these...if I ever get the time and energy to make them!