Tuesday, October 27, 2009

Distracted




I was tired of working on the stupid zipper (yes that makes the 4th rip out) so I switched to an experiment. Thought I would see if I would like all my different scraps together...turns out I dont mind it! Not sure if I love it, but it will be a nice way to use them all up! I think I will be a bit more selective on the styles of the fabrics I put together. However this paper piecing method from Ashley, though absolutely wonderful, required me making a VERY large mess in my sewing room...no picture of that :-) I suppose that the clean up time will also be a good distraction from the stupid, stupid zipper!

Monday, October 26, 2009

Garments to complete...ugh


In my brain this all went together well and easily. I guess I really cannot complain, it is going well enough. I just struggled with the zipper of this top yesterday, took it out twice and then hung it back on the dress form! (It still needs to be redone) I think I will opt for the invisible zipper technique next, I should have done that to begin with, ugh! The fabric is too sheer and does not have enough body to support the stitching I was trying without it becoming all wonky. Wonky is good for some things but NOT for zippers! Lesson learned! Still have neck facing, sleeves, side seams and pockets to stitch in (which will be evenly placed by the time I apply them LOL)...

And the skirt to complete! I think I will really like it when I am done, too bad it is for a friend and not me! Now that I have found some patterns that I actually like - and fit my fluffy figure well - I am ready to go purchase fabric for pants for myself! The above top, skirt and the pants that I previously made are all from the Ottobre pattern magazine. I love them, they definitely require some knowledge of garment construction, but I am finding them very fun and easy to assemble in the end.
I am even using a product that I have never used before. I am using the clear elastic, it is about 1/4" wide. I love it! I used it to gather the sleeves and the pocket tops. Where have I been, this is the most wonderful stuff - Just stretch and stitch, so easy!

I am asking for a new camera for Christmas this year... My digital broke and obviously the phone is not doing such a great job! Suggestions on the kind I should get?

Friday, October 23, 2009

The wheels are turning


I cannot wait to get started on these! I visited a wonderful little fabric shop in NE Portland today called BOLT. They just happened to be having a sale, which was wonderful, as was the selection of fabric and the ladies there were so very kind and helpful. I think the top fabric will be a skirt, however the rest will be come some special order tops...should be fun.

Life has been busy, but wonderful. I am gearing up for the holidays, hoping to make 4 quilts between now and Christmas this is my inspiration! No time to chat!