McCalls Dress 5621

Pattern Description:
Dresses A, B are slim-fitting with gathered front and contrast neck bands; dress B has three-quarter length sleeves with gathered self-ruffle; dress C is slim-fitting, has neck band and short bell sleeves with elastic casing; dresses A, B and C lengths are 5" above mid-knee.

Pattern Sizing:
10-12-14-16-18. I cut the size 12

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 liked that it was easy and fast. I did have a little trouble with the neckband "fitting" into the dress, but I figured it out.

Fabric Used:
Pink linen and black/white/pink cotton for neckband

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:
None- I did make it big, because it was originally supposed to be a maternity dress for me last summer. I finished everything but the hem, and then forgot about it until this summer. I hemmed it and wore it with a belt!

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?
I definitely am going to sew it again and I would recommend it to others. I want to make the view C dress next.

Conclusion:
I have gotten tons of compliments on this dress. It's perfect for summer!

McCalls 5425

Pattern Description:
Pullover dress has front and back neck casings; dress A has contrasting tie that extends from left front and left back opening edges of casing, center back slit at upper edge; dresses B, C have shoulder straps extending from casing, upper and lower center back slits; dress B has contrasting shoulder strap and belt.

Pattern Sizing:
I bought the 14-16-18-20 last year when I was pregnant. I decided to still use it since my full bust measures a size 14. Also, there really isn't much form to this dress.

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?
Extremely easy

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?
I liked that it was easy and fast. I wanted to make a dress for a 4th of July cookout and it took me no time to make it.

Fabric Used:
Red linen for the dress, navy linen for shoulder straps and belt

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:
I made the shoulder straps narrower. I could see that it would be difficult pulling a wide piece of fabric through the loops.

I could tell it was going to be short, so even though I am petite, I only shortened the torso. I left the hip area as it was.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?
Yes, I would. I might make a swimsuit coverup or a dressier fabric for a dress to go out in.

First Sewing Class

I took my first sewing class this weekend. It was great! I learned more about under stitching, became better at ease stitching, and I'm thinking about taking my serger to the class next week when I try a knit top.

This week, I made this dress (Butterick 5415):


I still need to the sew the sleeves in, but so far I'm really happy how it's come out.

Infinity Scarf

Miss Celie inspired me to make this scarf. I've wanted a knitted one all winter, but couldn't find one or didn't want to pay for one. Making one out of fabric is so smart! I found this polyester stretch fabric at Sew Fisticated for $2.99/yd. I bought 2 yards. It's 24 inches wide. It took me less than 30 minutes to cut and stitch it. I will use it as a winter scarf with my coat as well as something to keep me warm inside since I'm always cold.

Once I find some more fabric, I'll make some more- maybe even some as gifts!

December 09/January 10 Project

McCalls 5579:

This is not a difficult pattern, but I'm having some trouble. First, the light, satiny polyester fabric I'm using is not easy. Secondly, I don't think I measured myself right. It may be a little snug, which is probably okay, since I'm still losing baby weight and will probably be able to fit it by the summer. My boyfriend says I should start over, but I think I just need to cut a new midriff. I could have finished this yesterday, but I needed to walk away from it for a day or two. Hopefully, I'll finish it soon...

Simplicity 2696

I made this top before my belly was showing. It's my first real attempt with sleeves. This shirt was pretty simple- the hardest part was the front neckline, which still didn't come out as smooth as I would have wished, but overall I was proud of my effort. Surprisingly, I got a lot of compliments whenever I wore it. It's big for me now, but I may still try to wear it with a belt.