tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-72670298540644442332024-03-13T06:42:52.926-04:00Sew TerriLife is too short to wear boring clothes so I interpret fashion and create my own Terri Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15664663692345724425noreply@blogger.comBlogger128125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7267029854064444233.post-27878413263867006182018-01-25T13:20:00.001-05:002018-01-26T10:26:56.956-05:00Some spring sewing - Two blouses from the At Every Angle pattern<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Referring to the <a href="https://www.cuttinglinedesigns.com/item.asp?itemid=804&catid=7&subof=0&page=1&pagein=products.asp">At Every Angle Cutting Line Designs pattern </a>with two interesting tops that can be shirts or jackets, depending on the fabrics used. I was dithering about which fabric to use for view A, so I decided to make some coordinates that would work with my neutral berry bottoms. </span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">First up is a soft cotton <span style="background-color: rgba(0 , 0 , 0 , 0.0470588); color: #212124;">cross dye shirting with mulberry and cream threads woven to create narrow purple stripes on a gray-ish background. It has an 11" border of more compact stripes that make it look darker. I cut the collar, the large patch pocket and put the front sides facings on the darker border portion for contrast. </span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: rgba(0 , 0 , 0 , 0.0470588); color: #212124;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4663/28113870179_5b69c93138_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="359" data-original-width="640" height="179" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4663/28113870179_5b69c93138_z.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: rgba(0 , 0 , 0 , 0.0470588); color: #212124;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4699/28102107439_c3b9e59a82_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="359" height="320" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4699/28102107439_c3b9e59a82_z.jpg" width="179" /></span></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #212124; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.0470588);">Based on the finished measurements and how I like my shirts like this to fit, I cut the XS size. I always compare patterns to others I wear and buy. I did not make any alterations to this pattern. I also cut and sewed on the large patch pocket shown in the pattern. Once it was finished, I decided the proportions were off, given the size I made, and removed the large pocket. I remembered how much I liked the smaller pockets on my <a href="https://www.cuttinglinedesigns.com/item.asp?itemid=377&catid=7&subof=0&page=2&pagein=products.asp">CLD Just My Style tops</a>, so I cut out three of them and determined the placement. </span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4748/25010960687_a13c0e5900_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="359" data-original-width="640" height="179" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4748/25010960687_a13c0e5900_z.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #212124; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.0470588);">I then followed the instructions for stay stitching and pressing templates to ensure a professional look. </span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #212124; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.0470588);"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4621/25010965357_1b5aa800b2_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="359" data-original-width="640" height="179" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4621/25010965357_1b5aa800b2_z.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4630/25010962587_16478bc2bf_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="493" data-original-width="640" height="246" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4630/25010962587_16478bc2bf_z.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4651/38983339365_64df85b51f_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="359" height="320" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4651/38983339365_64df85b51f_z.jpg" width="179" /></span></a><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Here is the final result with the three smaller pockets. The one on the lower left is sewn on straight, but the angle of the photo and the drape of the soft shirting makes it look crooked, noting that Terri doesn't do "crooked". Those are thin 5/8" pewter color metal buttons. The wide-leg linen pants </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">are from last spring/summer's collection by a company called Kleen. </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I love the overall asymmetry of this top, the </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">asymmetrical</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">stand-up collar, and how the length and shape of this top works with this pant style. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4745/38983342005_37df4950c3_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="312" height="320" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4745/38983342005_37df4950c3_z.jpg" width="156" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div>
<a href="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4670/39172698064_6369b9440f_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="359" height="320" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4670/39172698064_6369b9440f_z.jpg" width="179" /></a><a href="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4660/39172698964_fa992523f8_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="421" height="320" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4660/39172698964_fa992523f8_z.jpg" width="210" /></span></a><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Next is the same view B shirt in a taupe silk organza with a dark berry woven stripe. The cotton shirting stripes aren't as prominant and I wanted to play with the stripes in this fabric. It's easy with this pattern because there are 4 individual front/back pieces that you cut fabric face up. Everything is the same on this top except that the stripes run horizontally on the right front and back, to include the sleeve, and vertically on the left side. I cut the collar with the stripe running down the piece. Silk organza is a challenging fabric to cut, sew and press, especially with a woven in stripe. I cut, and used narrow strips of very light steam a seam from a sheet of SaS before I top-stitched the facings and hems. Because of the crisp nature of the fabric, I decided against pockets that would make the fronts stiff. The organza is semi sheer so this was intended to be layered over another top or dress like I show here. As such, I eliminated the buttonholes and buttons. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">More photos in the <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/terrihk/albums/72157681875927653/with/39172698064/">At Every Angle album</a> on my Flickr photo site </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Terri Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15664663692345724425noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7267029854064444233.post-8354790520158399672017-05-26T23:47:00.000-04:002017-05-27T11:01:16.821-04:00May Sewing: More red and white seersucker coordinates<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Is there anything better than classic cotton seersucker in the summer? The only thing better is cotton seersucker with lycra like what I've used for these garments. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2843/34297153496_9615141ef4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="459" height="320" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2843/34297153496_9615141ef4.jpg" width="293" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I like wearing updated classics, so <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/terrihk/albums/72157681076805504">t</a></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/terrihk/albums/72157681076805504">he pullover shirtdress</a> that you've already seen was first up, then I wanted a skirt or culottes of some sort. I decided to make another long <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/terrihk/albums/72157623361309520">swooshy skirt from the 4 gore Relax a Little pattern </a>that I've used many times. This one has Louise Cutting's signature pockets from a previous skirt pattern. I added a neat bias treatment at the hem because I like to play around with stripes. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="234" height="320" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/628/34097149483_48bed6c1a1.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="149" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Odette top from Sewing Workshop pattern</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4225/34039759853_5c72670a97.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="201" height="320" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4225/34039759853_5c72670a97.jpg" width="128" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Skirt from Relax a Little pattern <br />by Cutting Line Designs</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4157/34039765593_f8e002043f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="214" height="320" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4157/34039765593_f8e002043f.jpg" width="136" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Knit top using the Anything But Ordinary pattern<br />over the RAL skirt</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/628/34097149483_48bed6c1a1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4222/34097152523_28e443cde4_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4222/34097152523_28e443cde4_z.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Detail of hems and hem finishes </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4191/34039763643_aca6f5fdb9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="273" data-original-width="500" height="174" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4191/34039763643_aca6f5fdb9.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">These pieces coordinate nicely with my white cotton blouses and tops </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">plus I made <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/terrihk/albums/72157650349954346">another top using the Sewing Workshop Odette pattern</a> for knits with a white cotton knit and some remnants left over from the dress and skirt. The cotton/lycra stripe worked well in the portions of knit top I substituted it for. I also used the bias at the sleeve hems. I doubt I will wear the top with the skirt but it looks great with white skirts and pants. I wore the RAL skirt with this Akris pleated top to an al fresco lunch and a business meeting this afternoon and it was great for the perfect 70's weather and the first sunny day we've had in a week! I was too busy for photos of it on me today. But you can see how the skirt and top fits in the Flickr album photos.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4189/34039767623_c01018d30d_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="268" height="320" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4189/34039767623_c01018d30d_z.jpg" width="134" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>Note: Martha asked a good question about sewing and pressing on seersucker. I'm replying here because I tried twice to post a reply below in Google and it vaporized. </i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>Depending on the grain, seersucker needs a little care in terms of the top and bottom layers wanting to shift while sewing. Seems must be pinned together carefully, and care taken for edge stitching. I've not needed a differential feed setting when serging, and use a cotton or wool with a light steam setting on my old Rowenta iron. I use an old linen damask table napkin as a press cloth. Pressing didn't smash the puckers - note that seersucker is often used for classic men's summer jackets and slacks, and oh how the cleaners press them! I didn't use a press cloth pressing seams or the hems/bias stripes that I also used manilla templates for. I always make samples with the smaller cut pieces to see how the fabric is going to behave before I sew a garment. The lycra in this didn't affect the pressing. </i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>Terri Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15664663692345724425noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7267029854064444233.post-85694623657424224952017-05-12T19:36:00.001-04:002017-08-11T11:07:00.110-04:00A Capsule Wardrobe in Shades of Red<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Everybody loves a capsule wardrobe. I don't wear a lot of red, but the reds I choose are muted reds and those in the mulberry range. I just finished this dress that is a pattern hack using two Cutting Line Design patterns, each that I've made several times. This time I wanted the cut-on sleeve with cuff look of the <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/terrihk/albums/72157640237506674">Simplify Your Life top pattern</a> and the button front of the <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/terrihk/albums/72157610254824861">Ebb blouse pattern.</a> So I made my own changes to that pattern and here is the resulting dress in a muted red with white seersucker. I posted photos of changes and details on Flickr albums.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2843/34297153496_9615141ef4_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2843/34297153496_9615141ef4_z.jpg" width="294" /></span></a><a href="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4157/34614907365_6eea1e0120_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4157/34614907365_6eea1e0120_z.jpg" width="224" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">My garments are hung in coordinating groups so I can select and wear coordinates for a day, or pull out a capsule for a trip. This capsule includes that dress, two sleeveless tops from <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/terrihk/albums/72157655407826453/with/29765230492/">the Danger Curves Ahead pattern</a>, a muted <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/terrihk/albums/72157619887176485">red and white Liberty jacket in a vertically textured cotton</a>, a white Gunex asymmetrically pleated skirt and white linen pants. Adding more colors, there's a striped cotton <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/terrihk/albums/72157617014694482">Shapes Six Sense skirt </a>in reds/orange and a stripe of purple that goes well with the two DCA tops. I included a silk scarf in a denim blue background with colorful shoe motifs that I can wear with the Liberty jacket on its own. I love the way this all works together! </span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4191/34229391390_8b1980bc70_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4191/34229391390_8b1980bc70_b.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4180/34229372160_fd41295c8f_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="250" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4180/34229372160_fd41295c8f_b.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4170/34229376970_c5d9577cdd_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4170/34229376970_c5d9577cdd_b.jpg" width="317" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4181/34229385240_3f843eec39_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4181/34229385240_3f843eec39_b.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />Terri Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15664663692345724425noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7267029854064444233.post-18468229803716663272016-02-24T13:21:00.000-05:002016-02-25T10:25:30.390-05:00Cutting Line Designs: A Shirt and Vest using the "Just A Pinch" pattern<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #741b47; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; text-align: start;">I'm on autoship for <a href="http://www.cuttinglinedesigns.com/">Cutting Line Design patterns</a>, but my pattern must have done the round the country route to get to me here in Asheville, NC from Winter Park FL. It finally arrived Saturday, but in anticipation, I had my fabric for my first "wearable muslin" already prepped and ready to go. Having already seen the finished measurements, and comparing them to other similar blouses and vests with the wearing and design ease I like, I went to town. I read the instructions twice and there are many unique techniques for both views. I always do the prep work as a unit for all pieces, clipping, marking, template pressing, interfacing and serging the edges if called for. Note that the hem width on the front and the back pieces is different and the collar construction is so unique that I've not seen it done anywhere else. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1637/25237869875_4b74ea7e83_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1637/25237869875_4b74ea7e83_z.jpg" width="188" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1711/24942262450_f5834f49df_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1711/24942262450_f5834f49df_z.jpg" width="214" /></a><a href="https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1583/24611078813_1c3a66e8b5_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1583/24611078813_1c3a66e8b5_z.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #741b47; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #741b47; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">For this blouse with the front tucks (hence the name "Pinch") I used a menswear pinstripe, cotton/lycra shirting made for Tom Ford that I bought from Michael's Fabrics in Baltimore. You can never go wrong using high quality fabric, and I don't waste my time on anything else. The quality of the finished garment is comparable with high end ready-to-wear shirts and blouses by the houses of Anne Fontaine and PLANET. </span><span style="color: #741b47; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="color: #741b47; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">They are timeless and elegant, like this style.</span><span style="color: #741b47; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="color: #741b47; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> I've been fortunate to buy a few Anne Fontaine (AF) blouses on sale or at consignment shops, and included some photos of one for comparison on the Flickr album. The collar on the AF blouse I put some photos on Flickr to compare is similar in what you will achieve using Louise Cutting and Sandra Miller's detailed instructions. </span><br />
<span style="color: #741b47; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #741b47; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1503/25237792125_0e9772dbb9_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1503/25237792125_0e9772dbb9_z.jpg" width="174" /></a><a href="https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1508/24870031729_6169c4f240_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1508/24870031729_6169c4f240_z.jpg" width="167" /></a></span></div>
<span style="color: #741b47; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #741b47; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">On to the vest. I used a unique Japanese cotton. I bought this one because of all the great colors that are not only "my colors" but go with many other things I own and have sewn. The collars and fronts of the two garments are interchangeable, so I may use the vest collar on the next blouse/shirt I make. I veered from the collar instructions and catch-stitched the double collar in the center to hold it, but not squash the beauty of the double collar. The ponte knit top shown under the vest is the Odette top from The Sewing Workshop pattern. You can see several variations of that top/pattern in <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/terrihk/albums/72157650349954346">my Odette Flickr album</a>.</span><br />
<span style="color: #741b47; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1705/25211427056_c62419c9be_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #741b47; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1705/25211427056_c62419c9be_z.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1644/24611063573_d119d93941_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #741b47; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1644/24611063573_d119d93941_z.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<span style="color: #741b47; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #741b47; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Not only do I enjoy the journey of creating these great pieces, I take great pride in wearing them. Enjoy yours and the many photos of these on <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/terrihk/albums/72157661481393959">the "Just A Pinch" Flickr Album.</a> </span>Terri Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15664663692345724425noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7267029854064444233.post-3836179744270246572016-02-03T13:31:00.003-05:002016-02-03T18:51:13.045-05:00A Tunic and a Wide-leg Pant <br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<a href="https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1462/24103274999_6ef32aee22_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1462/24103274999_6ef32aee22_z.jpg" width="179" /></span></a><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Here is the Cutting Line Designs tunic from the Danger Curves Ahead pattern that I finished in January. It's a very drapy rayon challis print with black handkerchief linen contrast and facings. The challis presented more of a challenge than if I had chosen a more stable fabric. Reminder - measure the cuff pattern pieces for the size you intend to make. I cut the size small for this pattern, and, even with buttonholes and buttons on a scant 3/8" from the edge, they have little ease. I took photos of all the details which are on my Flickr photos and <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/terrihk/albums/72157655407826453">the album for this pattern</a>. Here is the tunic worn with a pair of 4-ply silk One Seam pants.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1512/24499113580_9074a1753a_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1512/24499113580_9074a1753a_z.jpg" width="122" /></a><a href="https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1502/24768417956_2e49a509e5_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1502/24768417956_2e49a509e5_z.jpg" width="146" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I cropped a pair of Loes Hinse Hepburn wide-leg pants that I didn't wear much last year, and I liked them better. So after I finished the Cutting Line Designs tunic from the Danger Curves Ahead pattern, I sewed up a pair of the <a href="http://sewingworkshop.com/shop#!/West-End/p/38307659/category=9765086">West End pants</a> from the pattern by The Sewing Workshop. I had the pattern but hadn't sewn either the jacket or the wide-leg pants that are included. So, here they are in the same double spring/summer weight double sided/textured fabric I used for some coordinates in <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/terrihk/albums/72157624265970486">this Tan/Black Coordinates Group Flickr Album</a>. You need a fabric like this with lots of drape, and plenty of ease to pull off this look, plus it's important to wear some shoes or boots with a bit of a heel. Here's a "selfie" taken in the mirror in my sewing room and the other is outside on the deck in the wind! Those are Arche nubuck ankle boots from <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Mustardseedbethesda/">the Mustard Seed boutique in Bethesda MD</a> that is owned by my step-son, Derek. Go see them if you're in the neighborhood. You'll come away with some fantastic finds!</span></span><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1620/24677508322_1c85bff918_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1620/24677508322_1c85bff918_z.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Texture and colors of fabric used for West End Pant</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1639/24167237123_345fc67f0b_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1639/24167237123_345fc67f0b_z.jpg" width="247" /></a><a href="https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1527/24167237053_364568f17b_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1527/24167237053_364568f17b_z.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />Terri Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15664663692345724425noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7267029854064444233.post-68569584721210109442016-01-26T12:57:00.000-05:002016-01-30T19:06:57.683-05:00Three Bristol Dresses<br />
<div style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;">
<div style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;">
<img height="640" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1667/24198483339_67ac917cb4.jpg" width="236" /></div>
</div>
<img src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1458/24516169376_8726c29a10.jpg" /><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I bought the <a href="http://sewingworkshop.com/shop/all-products#!/Bristol/p/47249962/category=9765082">Bristol Dress/Top pattern</a> at The Sewing Workshop's booth when I attended <a href="https://www.sewexpo.com/index.htm">the Sewing and Stitchery Expo in Puyallup WA</a> in 2015. The TSW ladies were wearing theirs in various knits. It's a cozy, casual and stylish dress for laying, which you have to do in Puyallup in February, and fall/winter months here in Asheville, NC. I had inspiration overload when I returned and my sights on spring when I got home with lots of snow on the ground when I left, and more when I returned. </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Here are photos of the 3 Bristol dresses I sewed up while it snowed last week, and I'm still playing!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">This pattern, like the <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/terrihk/albums/72157650349954346">TSW Odette top pattern that I have sewn several of</a>, allows one to treat your fabric like a puzzle that I enjoy. So, like the Odette top, I made several of these and will probably sew up more. It's a fun, Anthropologie like style that is very adaptable, depending on the knit you use. I used a novelty overprinted slinky for the body and sleeves of my first one. I planned to use a black ponte knit for the contrast, but decided it was too much "black", instead used the beige stretch pique, picking up the color of the floral motifs. It's the same pique I used to make <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/terrihk/3495086503/in/album-72157613751726265/">this Cutting Line Designs Pure and Simple jacket.</a> One of my friends remarked that the black floral slinky dress has a Downton Abby vibe. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The second one is in an emerald green/black ponte knit from Fabric Mart with black matte jersey contrast hem bands and cuffs. It's a showstopper! </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The mulberry one below is in the same puckery/lacy knit that I used for a long skirt and a Eureka top. This time I cut the yoke on the bias and stablized the yoke/body seam with the fusible knit stabilizer tape. It coordinates with those, and many other <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/terrihk/albums/72157640147856683"> Berry and Chocolate Coordinates</a> I've sewn. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">In terms of construction, I found that a 4 thread serged seam worked best for the body, sleeve and yoke seams. I used fusible tricot knit stay tape for the yokes and other areas that needed it. You can eliminate the cuff if you want to. I cut the sleeves for the mulberry one on the interesting ruffled selvedge. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">This is a great pattern to play with and use remnants that are just too good to toss! I've uploaded many more photos of these to my <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/terrihk/albums/72157663838991925">Bristol Dress Flickr album.</a> I'm always up to something in the sewing chamber, but am a lazy blogger. If you want to see what I'm up to, and get some inspiration to sew your own, just check my Flickr photos.</span><br />
<a href="https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1571/24519163002_f4bfc38307.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1571/24519163002_f4bfc38307.jpg" width="320" /></a><img src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1513/24519187622_c75dca84ee.jpg" />Terri Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15664663692345724425noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7267029854064444233.post-12602285705168324772015-11-02T13:17:00.001-05:002015-11-02T18:50:47.454-05:00More Berry Coordinates<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/702/21528568039_1a3a35bd1e_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/702/21528568039_1a3a35bd1e_c.jpg" width="315" /></a><a href="https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7484/15535813344_6f14d3f964.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7484/15535813344_6f14d3f964.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #4c1130; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Here are some coordinates I created over the last couple months using the fabric palettes above. First up</span> are two tops I made using the <a href="http://webstore.quiltropolis.net/stores_app/Browse_Item_Details.asp?Store_id=516&page_id=23&Item_ID=1319">Danger, Curves Ahead pattern from Cutting Line Designs</a> worn over the <a href="http://webstore.quiltropolis.net/stores_app/Browse_Item_Details.asp?Shopper_id=6634112124786634&Store_id=516&page_id=23&Item_ID=1204">Shapes Six Sense skirt</a> I made a few years ago. This pattern includes instructions for a technique to get the finest curved, narrow hem. You can see details of the hem, plus how I made these tops using the coordinating fabrics, including a large size, high quality mens shirt in</span><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/terrihk/albums/72157655407826453" style="background-color: white; font-family: '"verdana"', sans-serif;"> the Flickr Album</a>.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://c2.staticflickr.com/6/5660/20721827748_64a1430c3d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #4c1130; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/6/5660/20721827748_64a1430c3d.jpg" width="140" /></span></a><a href="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/690/20883517276_ea221ab7f0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #4c1130; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/690/20883517276_ea221ab7f0.jpg" width="154" /></span></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #4c1130; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "\22 trebuchet ms\22 " , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "\22 trebuchet ms\22 " , sans-serif;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #4c1130; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/720/20917102341_82e582a1d8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/675/20883518196_a115517859.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #4c1130; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/675/20883518196_a115517859.jpg" width="135" /></span></a><span style="background-color: white; color: #4c1130; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/720/20917102341_82e582a1d8.jpg" width="119" /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://c2.staticflickr.com/6/5786/20883522086_77214f0ae7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #4c1130; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/6/5786/20883522086_77214f0ae7.jpg" width="273" /></span></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #4c1130; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #4c1130; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Here is my modification of the <a href="http://webstore.quiltropolis.net/stores_app/Browse_Item_Details.asp?Shopper_id=6634112124786634&Store_id=516&page_id=23&Item_ID=1300">A New Dimension jacket</a> and a top from the Just My Style pattern. For the jacket mod, all I did was fold back/remove the sleeves on the front and back side/sleeve pieces. I then created one pattern piece from those two pieces that is now the side piece. You can see how I did it in <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/terrihk/albums/72157632686196161">my Flickr Album for the A New Dimension pattern.</a></span><br />
<br />
<a href="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/750/21724352671_99d23d4c43_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/750/21724352671_99d23d4c43_z.jpg" width="183" /></a><span style="background-color: white; color: #4c1130; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #4c1130; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Here is the now sleeveless jacket/vest worn over another Cutting Line Designs pattern, the <a href="http://webstore.quiltropolis.net/stores_app/Browse_Item_Details.asp?Store_id=516&page_id=23&Item_ID=1313">Just My Style top view B </a>in a silk/linen blend. I used that fabric for the front facings. I love wearing these warm neutral colors that look great with brown and other berry coordinates. </span><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://c2.staticflickr.com/6/5767/21714984925_74a82d5611_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="258" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/6/5767/21714984925_74a82d5611_z.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="background-color: white; clear: left; color: #4c1130; display: inline !important; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><a href="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/624/21714985035_2ec4149013_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/624/21714985035_2ec4149013_z.jpg" width="200" /></a></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/750/21724352671_99d23d4c43_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #4c1130; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"></span></a><a href="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/647/21715074375_9261803432_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #4c1130; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/647/21715074375_9261803432_z.jpg" width="202" /></span></a><a href="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/577/21714985155_04789115ba_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/577/21714985155_04789115ba_z.jpg" width="167" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/577/21714985155_04789115ba_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #4c1130; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #4c1130; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
Terri Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15664663692345724425noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7267029854064444233.post-37071860101849524952015-04-26T21:22:00.001-04:002015-04-28T22:14:22.610-04:00Beetle-mania dress and top<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7713/16660483814_ba18c8c7fb_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="194" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7713/16660483814_ba18c8c7fb_b.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
I'm a big fan of <a href="http://www.rtwcharleston.com/">RTW Charleston</a> and the shops on Charleston's King Street. In the fall of 2013 RTW this dress and others from the Lanvin collection with the beetles on dresses, scarves, tops, jewelry and other accessories. I put this on my inspiration board because it was unique and sophisticated. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7677/17278542546_24f3272796_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="183" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7677/17278542546_24f3272796_c.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
So when I saw this screen printed beetle border print, I knew that I was going to have fun with it. Two new patterns this spring became the canvas for using that fabric, and I am happy with the results. Presenting my beetle dress and my beetle top. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8763/17304039471_d2a82e3043_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8763/17304039471_d2a82e3043_c.jpg" width="143" /></a></div>
<br />
<a href="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7686/17282441321_7d99a541ba_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7686/17282441321_7d99a541ba_c.jpg" width="128" /></a>The dress is <a href="http://voguepatterns.mccall.com/v9112-products-49850.php?page_id=174">Vogue 9112 with lots of pieces, curves and inserts.</a> The dresses on the models are unflattering IMO. The last Vogue pattern I sewed was a fail and I gave it away. So I based the decision to try this one on the line diagrams that I knew would show off this fabric. I placed the border print at the bottom and the pleated, overlapping collar, omitting it in the lower front piece on purpose. It's a unique lagenlook worn with capri leggings, a slim pant, and even over a light weight top. The top and waist are nicely fitting. There is LOTS of volume at the bottom but it doesn't add 40 or 50 lbs like some other dresses/tunics I've seen. I like the collar.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8799/17095171968_12b017a1dd_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8799/17095171968_12b017a1dd_c.jpg" width="140" /></a><a href="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7703/16662715293_f1ddd5a0a9_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7703/16662715293_f1ddd5a0a9_c.jpg" width="142" /></a><a href="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8692/16660489124_e90b1923d4_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8692/16660489124_e90b1923d4_c.jpg" width="152" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8778/17095401510_9ba22de211_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8778/17095401510_9ba22de211_c.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7715/17302666192_531fc820c7_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7715/17302666192_531fc820c7_c.jpg" width="286" /></a></div>
<br />
Next is this fun top using the new <a href="http://webstore.quiltropolis.net/stores_app/Browse_Item_Details.asp?Shopper_id=7143426216587143&Store_id=516&page_id=23&Item_ID=1317">Light and Shadow top pattern by Louise Cutting</a>. View B has a separate vented flange under the hem that I thought would be interesting to play with the border. I also cut the sleeves on the narrower border. This pattern has instructions for all the fine sewing techniques used here, and you can make this top in an afternoon. This looks great with white or black pants!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7713/16662711023_45980bf089_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7710/17096750989_91d11d256d_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7710/17096750989_91d11d256d_c.jpg" width="213" /></a><img border="0" height="320" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7713/16662711023_45980bf089_c.jpg" width="202" /><a href="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8821/17096750349_6aae461ab8_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8821/17096750349_6aae461ab8_c.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7661/17282436191_040e7140a9_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="198" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7661/17282436191_040e7140a9_c.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Terri Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15664663692345724425noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7267029854064444233.post-59041361579060599852014-08-15T16:23:00.001-04:002015-04-28T23:57:24.964-04:00Louise Cutting Fitting/Sewing/Styling Retreat <div style="text-align: justify;">
I was one of 14 women attending a workshop with Louise Cutting and Sandy Miller in Winter Park, Florida last weekend. The first thing we do is take 21 specific measurements so that patterns can be easily checked and you know where they need to be altered. Since all things change, she suggests re-measuring yourself at least once a year. She limits the number of people at these workshops so everyone can get hands on attention all 3 days. We all have different shapes and sizes and, because of the expert fitting and muslining, there were some beautifully fitted and styled garments. Louise shows you how to place and match motifs, what alterations should be done and advises on the length and proportions. You can also work as late at night as you want to while you are there.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
I had several goals that were all accomplished. They included some fine tuning/fitting/tweaking of patterns I had already sewn and some styling and restyling advice. I brought this Eskandar linen duster so that Louise and Sandy could advise on the best way to restyle it and save the great motifs. It's an Eskandar size 1 but was too wide and too long for my small frame. Here is what it looked like before. </div>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3850/14408356782_64c2871e57.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2938/14223017559_4e62c03cd8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3850/14408356782_64c2871e57.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="294" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3850/14408356782_64c2871e57.jpg" width="320" /></a><img border="0" height="320" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2938/14223017559_4e62c03cd8.jpg" width="213" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
The primitive motifs are beautifully matched at the shoulders and front so she advised to keep the front band, back neck and shoulders intact (the entire garment is sewn with french seams) and lay the size small <a href="http://webstore.quiltropolis.net/stores_app/Browse_Item_Details.asp?Shopper_id=78448151629297844&Store_id=516&page_id=23&Item_ID=1192">Of The Moment pattern</a> (view A) right front with the shoulder dot at the intersection of the band and the shoulder seam, omitting the front extension. I decided to add 4.5" to the length of the Of The Moment jacket, and after comparing the sleeves, I just recut the cap and width using the OTM sleeve pattern, making sure to have that little extension that allows for the turn of the cloth at the hem. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2925/14408531644_124fe094d0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2925/14408531644_124fe094d0.jpg" width="301" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="text-align: justify;">So here's how it turned out. I'm wearing it with a silk jersey Of The Moment top and dark brown My Swing Set pants that I brought so they could check the placement and length of the darts. Louise had only seen the photos of me in the pants and thought the darts might be too long. When she saw the pants on me in person, she thought they were fine and no changes were necessary.</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3841/14928523715_df7aa66d98.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3892/14741849220_2b055fbed8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3892/14741849220_2b055fbed8.jpg" width="190" /></a><img border="0" height="320" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3841/14928523715_df7aa66d98.jpg" width="183" /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The front of this Of The Moment jacket is the same as this black/white linen jacket Louise Cutting is wearing in this photo taken at the American Sewing Guild conference earlier in the month. Her jacket has the OTM long sleeves and my restyled jacket has the sleeve length from the Eskandar duster. She added piping and a band of black linen at the hem to lengthen and add a design element. Lots of possibilities.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8801/17100083507_8c37681b21_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8801/17100083507_8c37681b21_b.jpg" width="177" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />Terri Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15664663692345724425noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7267029854064444233.post-3770069357533768162014-06-14T17:18:00.001-04:002014-06-14T22:46:37.715-04:00It's Over! A Huge Sigh of Relief<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">I'm one of the lucky ones.</span> </span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2911/14180829460_d0bd0b7b70_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2911/14180829460_d0bd0b7b70_c.jpg" width="214" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: small;">June 7, 2014</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">This is a post that has been 3 years in the making. The news is that at my six month check-up two weeks ago, my doctor at Johns Hopkins, who told me 3 years ago today that he would make me well, pronounced me well, and said he does not expect this to return. I am no longer on any meds and have basically been discharged. It has taken a couple weeks for reality to sink in and I'm writing this post because it's been exactly 3 years today, June 14, that I was admitted to Johns Hopkins. For those of you who haven't followed my journey, here's a synopsis. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">In August 2010 I was overcome by a debilitating and bewildering neurological syndrome that was </span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">rapidly</span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">destroying the myelin shealth covering my nerves. In late September I saw a neurologist in Asheville who not only misdiagnosed me, but paid no attention to the progression, letting me deteriorate for six more months. When he finally prescribed a treatment late in April 2011, I had a reaction to it, and it actually made me worse, speeding up the progression and deterioration. When I called his office to say that I was getting worse, they ignored my calls, didn't care and said he didn't want to see me for 5 more months. Well when you are in that situation what do you do? It's your life, so you call in the big guns, Johns Hopkins Neurology Department, the best in the world. Based on my criticality, they got me in within a month of our contact. BTW Johns Hopkins said the Asheville neurologist's office didn't even send them all my records. Those records were mainly for reference, since they do all their own tests, and tests they did. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">By June 14, the day I was admitted to Johns Hopkins, I could not bathe myself, could not hold my fingers together to splash water on/wash my face; could not wash my own hair or hold a hair dryer to dry it. I could not walk or stand alone and shoes fell off my feet unless they were held on by velcro straps like the Teva sandals in the photo. I was at the clinic for the entire day of tests and they took 9 vials of blood - the Asheville neurologist never even checked my blood. My doctor for these 3 years told me that day, "We know what's wrong with you, it's rare and we have no idea why and who this attacks, but we are going to make you well." He also told me, "I'm going to be your doctor now and we're going to get to know one another because this will take years to overcome." Once all the results were in, they convened a board of doctors to determine treatment, then I went back in July to be admitted to the hospital and begin treatment - 3 months of plasmapheresis plus immune suppressants. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">My doctor and I worked with Mission Hospital's Hemodialysis Center so that I was able to return to Asheville NC to have this done 3 times a week for the month of August. I have nothing but praise for the staff and doctors who run that center. They are the best of the best. By the end of August 2011, I was able to walk again and I went back to JH for a check-up. I continued the plasmapheresis twice a week for two more months with a Hickman catheter hanging out of my chest. In mid August I was also put on a high dose of the same powerful immune suppressant that organ transplant patients must take to keep from rejecting the donor organs. I went back to Johns Hopkins the end of October 2011 for a check-up and to have the catheter removed. I later learned that in everyone who gets this, it behaves differently. Some people do not respond to treatment so it can be fatal. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I continued to get stronger as the myelin and then the nerves slowly repaired and grew back. By October 2012 I was strong enough and confident enough to drive to Louise Cutting's sewing retreat with Linda Lee in Florida. Three months later, in December, my doctor decided to begin tapering me off the powerful immune suppressant that I was taking heavy doses of, and having to get my blood checked once a month. The 20 pages of warnings that come with that drug would scare the hell out of anybody, but I had no choice but to take it. That took a year and a half, decreasing the dosage every six months. I am much stronger today, although I have sensory issues and weakness in my feet from being untreated and left to deteriorate for so long.</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5270/5877870481_3621ffc972_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5270/5877870481_3621ffc972_b.jpg" width="214" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: small;">June 26, 2011</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">In these photos, I am wearing one of the shirt dresses I made using C<a href="http://webstore.quiltropolis.net/stores_app/Browse_Item_Details.asp?Shopper_id=5647614153955647&Store_id=516&page_id=23&Item_ID=1269">utting Line Designs Ebb Blouse pattern</a> (fabric from Michael's Fabrics). In the 2011 photo I could only stand, even with a cane, for a few minutes. </span><br />
<br />
<a href="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5483/14420238092_e936da3b84.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3923/14420221912_765e85651d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3923/14420221912_765e85651d.jpg" width="213" /></span></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5483/14420238092_e936da3b84.jpg" width="166" /></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I haven't started any big sewing projects since I made <a href="http://webstore.quiltropolis.net/stores_app/Browse_Item_Details.asp?Shopper_id=5647614153955647&Store_id=516&page_id=23&Item_ID=1300">view B of this A New Dimension jacket</a> in March. I've worn this jacket frequently this spring because it coordinates with dresses, pants and skirts. In addition to our trip to Baltimore and then Williamsburg VA on the way home, I attended the North Carolina DAR State Conference in Durham the first weekend in May and spent the following week in Florida. I found a wonderful designer consignment shop in Ormond Beach Florida where we stayed, <a href="http://www.kaysdesignerconsignment.com/">Kay's Designer Consignments</a>, where I bought several things, including this Swiss cotton Fendi dress from a recent collection. Who could resist the lines with that great color blocking and then the back! The brown pockets match the brown stripes in the A New Dimension jacket perfectly. This photo was taken last Monday morning before I left for the annual District 1 NC DAR meeting/luncheon in Brevard NC. The fabric of the jacket is a light double face Zegna shirting and is very comfortable. I kept it on over the dress for most of the day since it was cool inside the church.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3863/14421516745_1773fbf355.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3863/14421516745_1773fbf355.jpg" width="213" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Time to sign off for now because I just got the mail and the latest <a href="http://webstore.quiltropolis.net/stores_app/Browse_Item_Details.asp?Store_id=516&page_id=23&Item_ID=1305">Cutting Line Designs pattern, The Director's Cut</a> arrived. I have this <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/terrihk/14408356782/in/photostream/">Eskandar linen coat</a> that I have been waiting for just the right "look" to restyle it into. Then there is the <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/terrihk/14223052218/in/photostream/">perfectly matched toffee color linen to the A new Dimension Jacket</a> and <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/terrihk/14408355702/in/photostream/">my striped stretch linen Piazza Sempione sleeveless jacket</a> that had just come in when I visited Michael's Fabrics in Baltimore a couple weeks ago .... Now to get busy sewing again!</span>Terri Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15664663692345724425noreply@blogger.com52tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7267029854064444233.post-79852890165180435112014-04-26T20:48:00.002-04:002014-04-26T21:42:29.864-04:00Spring Swatches from Michael's Fabrics<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Spring is finally here and I want to make some new pieces to coordinate with my spring clothes. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Although I am traveling to Baltimore the first of June, I e-mailed Michael to send some swatches for me to evaluate, and order if they worked for me. Over the past 3 years I've had to travel to Baltimore every 6 months or more often, but swatches are great for shopping from home. Swatches also give me a better idea of what he currently has so I can make good use of my limited time when I get there. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Today I examined and photographed the swatches I received yesterday from Michael's Fabrics in Baltimore. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7383/14041301923_6e13bbbc8b_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="263" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7383/14041301923_6e13bbbc8b_c.jpg" width="320" /></span></a><a href="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2900/14041316173_13ed34e71b_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="262" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2900/14041316173_13ed34e71b_c.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<a href="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7310/14000555616_50e1f83748_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="206" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7310/14000555616_50e1f83748_c.jpg" width="320" /></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Michael has so many rolls of so many fabrics that he couldn't possibly put all of them up on their web site. So I just e-mail them, explaining what I'm looking for in terms of textures, stripes, solids, fabric content, weights, to include the types of garments I want to sew and a general idea of colors. Then I let them pick through their inventory and swatch based on my specifications and garments I've identified I want to sew. There is no charge for swatches and their fabrics are amazingly affordable given their origin and content. The garments that the designers make from these fabrics cost hundreds and even thousands of dollars retail. I am always blown away by what he sends me and what's in the store when I visit! </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7447/14020469392_c1ca78c9a6_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="165" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7447/14020469392_c1ca78c9a6_c.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So here's how it works - Michael swatches from his inventory based on my request and loads an envelope with nice size swatches like this. Here's what I do with the swatches before I call him to get more information about fabric content, width, etc for the ones I'm considering before ordering.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<a href="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7265/14018100812_0282eef397_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7265/14018100812_0282eef397_c.jpg" width="320" /></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I examine them in natural light, and see what coordinates with what. Then I put them alongside or over my garments/ensembles to see what they work with. Maybe I could use a pair of pants to go with the striped jackets... As I'm doing that, I take photos so Michael and I can look at them together on Flickr and discuss. While on the phone he tells me the fiber content, the manufacturer and width and answers questions. We did that this afternoon and I added that specific information to the Flickr photo descriptions. FYI, photos of all the fabric swatches he sent me this time are in the Flickr set for Michael's Fabrics. Enjoy and call him if something that tickles your fancy. If not, he'll customize a set just for you.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Then comes the hard part - deciding which to buy!</span><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7126/14000558486_afc4db18f4_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7126/14000558486_afc4db18f4_c.jpg" width="214" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Silk woven stripe with my linen and cotton garments</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2925/14018118691_1a7dc5ddb7_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="208" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2925/14018118691_1a7dc5ddb7_c.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2925/14000560136_daf71045a4_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2925/14000560136_daf71045a4_c.jpg" width="275" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Neutrals and browns with swatches</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> Disclosure: I am not affiliated with, nor am I compensated by Michael's Fabrics for writing about their swatches. I'm just a very satisfied customer who enjoys the clothes I make from his fabrics.</span></b></i></div>
<br />Terri Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15664663692345724425noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7267029854064444233.post-36275047039422428142014-02-25T12:16:00.002-05:002017-08-11T11:05:54.634-04:00Top and Dress from the new Simplify Your Life Pattern<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5533/12182699196_8778c1e805_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5533/12182699196_8778c1e805_b.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"></span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://webstore.quiltropolis.net/stores_app/Browse_Item_Details.asp?Store_id=516&page_id=23&Item_ID=1303">Simplify Your Life</a> is the latest pattern from Louise Cutting. It includes two tops. I made view A in this Hugo Boss cross dye shirting with a contrast facing. Here the top is paired with dark brown My Swing Set pants in pant weight stretch rayon. Considering the fit and shape of this top, I thought it would make a great dress. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"></span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://c2.staticflickr.com/6/5490/12190345295_e665ae3c7e_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="345" height="320" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/6/5490/12190345295_e665ae3c7e_z.jpg" width="172" /></a><a href="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4338/36105534570_a38224f6e9_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="539" height="320" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4338/36105534570_a38224f6e9_b.jpg" width="215" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<a href="https://c2.staticflickr.com/6/5507/12773707804_4b05c1df00_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="355" height="320" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/6/5507/12773707804_4b05c1df00_b.jpg" width="142" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I had enough of this silk/lycra seersucker I bought from Michael's Fabrics in Baltimore that I had already used for this pair of <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/terrihk/sets/72157626106296563/with/5512730752/">Discover Something Novel pants</a> and a <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/terrihk/sets/72157624655292110/with/4861651012/">Stars In Heaven tunic </a> to make a dress. These 3 simple but elegant neutral pieces can be worn many ways. I spoke to Michael last week about swatches. He said he's got tons of new fabrics in and hasn't had time to put them on the website. So call them directly if there's something you are looking for. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<a href="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5507/12773707804_02b16ee85d_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"></span></a>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="208" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7419/12773395245_85ef3d7fca_b.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Detail of fabrics and flap pockets</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I added large pockets with flaps to give the dress a bit more personality. Recent Diane Von Furstenberg dresses I've tried on at Neiman Marcus have this relaxed fit and I like dresses for the spring and summer. I considered adding a casing with a drawstring but decided that it would not work with the pleat in the front. I also auditioned some belts with it, but like it best unbelted.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 26px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 1531px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 26px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 1531px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span>Terri Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15664663692345724425noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7267029854064444233.post-66665652280170166232014-02-21T17:39:00.001-05:002014-02-23T11:03:55.749-05:00Stella top and eShrug coordinates<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2845/12622779104_2ff2f8a2e8_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2845/12622779104_2ff2f8a2e8_b.jpg" height="320" width="163" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #274e13; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Last post I showed you the floral lace skirt using the Relax A Little pattern worn over a cotton knit dress with a textured knit cardigan. Early this month I "auditioned" these fabrics to see what they coordinated with and what they wanted to be. Here's the photo where you can see the green Peruvian connection dress that I planned to wear them with/over. The photo below is the best representation of the colors, and you can see that the knit and lace also work with that mulberry plaid skirt in <a href="http://sewsophisticated.blogspot.com/2014/02/berry-and-chocolate-coordinates.html">the Berry/Chocolate coordinate group</a>. Now I have three new pieces in the lace and the knit that coordinate with several garments I sewed earlier this fall/winter, and others I already owned. They are light enough and layerable that I can wear them into spring. In addition to the skirt, I intend to make a 3/4 length, long sleeve eShrug using the lace, and narrow hemming it the same as the skirt. It will look wonderful over the green dress and even black dresses.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #274e13; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5515/12282308066_6b9c8f2f75_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #274e13; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5515/12282308066_6b9c8f2f75_b.jpg" height="264" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7345/12683404505_07fcc45312_c.jpg" height="320" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="220" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i>Stella top sans sleeves</i></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #274e13; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #274e13; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span>
<a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7345/12683404505_07fcc45312_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #274e13; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #274e13; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The textured knit is very drapy and semi-sheer in places so I knew I wanted layering pieces. It drapes but does not have recoverable stretch. I got this from Fabric Mart a few years ago and don't remember the fiber content. The crinkle/stretch lace is current Fabric Mart. I enjoy the neckline of the Stella tops I've made but I didn't want sleeves. If you omit the sleeves and simply serge and turn under the seam allowance you have a nice over the shoulder look - where a cap sleeve would end. I used a lightweight knit stabilizing tape on the shoulders of both knit tops, and along the V before sewing the doubled cowl piece in.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #274e13; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #274e13; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Here it is layered over the green knit dress and it has a peplum look if belted.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #274e13; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7396/12683546033_075b0df77c_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #274e13; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7396/12683546033_075b0df77c_c.jpg" height="320" width="120" /></span></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #274e13; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #274e13; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Keeping it interesting, but simple considering the knit fabric, I cut out an a eShrug with the remainder. I <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/terrihk/12622788244/">tapered the long sleeve eShrug pattern </a>using the sleeve from one of my Babette SF jackets as a template. The eShrug cardigan looks great over the sleeveless Stella top or just the dress. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #274e13; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3781/12683400635_1486457077_c.jpg" height="320" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="201" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">eShrug with long tapered sleeve</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #274e13; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I lengthened this eShrug. The front is straight (vs angled per the pattern) aligned with the selvedge to make use of that fringe. I cut the sleeves on the crossgrain, placing the desired hemline for my sleeve length on the selvedge. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #274e13; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7433/12622781534_edea2d1515_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #274e13; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7433/12622781534_edea2d1515_c.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #274e13; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">I just serge finished the remaining raw edges with mixed thread colors to blend in with the knit. </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #274e13; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
Terri Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15664663692345724425noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7267029854064444233.post-4863448957038784862014-02-18T20:18:00.001-05:002014-02-18T20:18:15.568-05:00Working the Relax A Little pattern X Five<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I love the shape and fit of the fluted four gore skirt in the Cuting Line Designs Relax A Little pattern that looks different in every fabric. Over the past months, I've made several and tweaked each as I always do. It's definitely a TNT pattern.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Here's one in a stretch denim where I added a separate fringed edge using strips of frayed selvedge. I was inspired to do this after seeing this Louis Vuitton resort 2014 skirt. Here's a photo of it and the selvedge trim. I did not add the fringed pockets over my hips. This one is a great casual skirt that works with the Ebb blouses I've made and classic white blouses like this wrap one.</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5519/11465172853_98480ccaa5_z.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3824/11465158373_1fc7375d13_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2851/11467055413_7c3a413a46_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2851/11467055413_7c3a413a46_z.jpg" height="320" width="160" /></a><a href="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2865/11465046684_6fc8a0ae0d_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/proxy/AVvXsEjlMBukZojXvftV3VisMPVRooNSfs3YqR5lzOY9aqQbj7P_6gAqGa7LBbAy4yarjsvOTA5-2GbEfh5rGnviyLKS8kHmsqq1onHfhJZhhiJENZS0TlZ2hTywnLKsX9DEhccW5yU1kkWRV-FRv36G4o0vfYSHSWgHU7x-zux9GR0L=" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3824/11465158373_1fc7375d13_z.jpg" height="320" width="133" /></a><img border="0" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2865/11465046684_6fc8a0ae0d_z.jpg" height="320" width="214" /></div>
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Here is the RAL skirt again in a crisp printed linen sewn according to the pattern instructions with the signature waist and all the edge/ topstitching. I added pockets, but used the rectangular one from the My Swing Set pant instead of the oval one included in the RAL pattern. That is a silk noil Anything But Ordinary top that I made a few years ago.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7415/12531744233_c0d583ca65_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7415/12531744233_c0d583ca65_z.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">In December I got inspired by this Alice and Olivia ensemble. I found the perfect lace and rayon jersey at Fabric Mart and made my version of the skirt, underskirt, and two tops. I used the Relax a Little skirt pattern to create my own version of the swooshy Alice and Olivia skirt with a slimmer waist and hip, and the Pure And Simple pattern (removed the dart) for the cap sleeve top. This lace does not have scalloped selvedges and it would have been impossible to use them with the curved hem of this skirt anyway. I edged the lace using a narrow 3 thread serged hem. My husband liked the lace on the arms so I made a short Loes Hinse Bianca top with long sleeves and used a satin stitch for the front three tucks so they stood out. I'm very pleased with all of them.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2846/11688266904_288e040421_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3701/11465378483_c7ee7a8ebc_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3701/11465378483_c7ee7a8ebc_z.jpg" height="320" width="152" /></a><img border="0" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2846/11688266904_288e040421_z.jpg" height="320" width="158" /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3805/11687907595_a4e6a4c482_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3805/11687907595_a4e6a4c482_z.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">This is a warm ensemble when worn with tights or leggings, an underskirt with another layer under the lace tops. I added large godets to the sides for more movement and used a narrow casing with elastic for the waistband. <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/terrihk/11710997096/in/photostream/">Here's the rayon jersey underskirt</a> that can be worn on its own.</span><br />
<br />
<a href="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5517/11671886754_5c6cb4b2a9_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5517/11671886754_5c6cb4b2a9_z.jpg" height="320" width="126" /></a><a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7443/11639722294_8c6e3aa258_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7443/11639722294_8c6e3aa258_z.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a><a href="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2879/11672303646_0ccb52244d_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2879/11672303646_0ccb52244d_z.jpg" height="164" width="320" /></a>
<a href="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3718/11639350475_0e8fdcbab8_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/proxy/AVvXsEjyyxWbdpdcO0R8M870PsF4eDytPdyE7onliUfE6Uf5o0B9tLDJ6hvp27jazDRsbWFPMMPLDNSV2YaorSblokfFsCYI5SA-xJa4X6faZeg5f8Z2gLb6avmD0P9Px40jgXLl7d80zevh4rI2wjb8z2pny_dDg2msLFtwebAbqBlk=" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3718/11639350475_0e8fdcbab8_z.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I was so pleased with the above lace skirt and tops that I ordered <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/terrihk/12281915413/in/photostream/">two of the French floral laces</a> and made up another that I absolutely love. I wore it today (temps here in Asheville were in the 60's!) with this long sleeve eShrug over a pima cotton knit dress from the Peruvian Connection. I'll blog more about this one and the tops I made to coordinate with it in my next post. I've done so much sewing this fall and winter that I've not had the time or inclination to blog about. But I've uploaded photos with informative descriptions on Flickr that I hope inspire you to sew something you love to wear as much as I love to wear my creations.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2845/12622779104_2ff2f8a2e8_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2845/12622779104_2ff2f8a2e8_z.jpg" height="320" width="163" /></a></div>
<br />
<!-- Blogger automated replacement: "https://images-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http%3A%2F%2Ffarm4.staticflickr.com%2F3718%2F11639350475_0e8fdcbab8_z.jpg&container=blogger&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image%2F*" with "https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/proxy/AVvXsEjyyxWbdpdcO0R8M870PsF4eDytPdyE7onliUfE6Uf5o0B9tLDJ6hvp27jazDRsbWFPMMPLDNSV2YaorSblokfFsCYI5SA-xJa4X6faZeg5f8Z2gLb6avmD0P9Px40jgXLl7d80zevh4rI2wjb8z2pny_dDg2msLFtwebAbqBlk=" --><!-- Blogger automated replacement: "https://images-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http%3A%2F%2Ffarm4.staticflickr.com%2F3824%2F11465158373_1fc7375d13_z.jpg&container=blogger&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image%2F*" with "https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/proxy/AVvXsEjlMBukZojXvftV3VisMPVRooNSfs3YqR5lzOY9aqQbj7P_6gAqGa7LBbAy4yarjsvOTA5-2GbEfh5rGnviyLKS8kHmsqq1onHfhJZhhiJENZS0TlZ2hTywnLKsX9DEhccW5yU1kkWRV-FRv36G4o0vfYSHSWgHU7x-zux9GR0L=" -->Terri Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15664663692345724425noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7267029854064444233.post-85409959062636854662014-02-05T17:56:00.000-05:002014-02-05T17:56:10.730-05:00Berry and Chocolate Coordinates <div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I've been spending the cold winter days when you can't, or don't want to go out, sewing coordinates, adding to those I sewed in the fall but didn't get around to documenting. I plan and measure and compare and try on and measure again so I have few, if any failures, and who wants to read about those anyway? I let my garments try on and "wear" fabrics that I think will work with them. <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/terrihk/12282308066/">Here's a photo of how I do that on Flickr</a> showing a knit and a colored stretch lace that I thought would work over these and other colors. It's a good way to decide what to make out of the fabric instead of just folding it up and putting it on a shelf after you get it. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> In addition to these coordinates, I restyled several garments, and made several skirts and coordinating tops using the CLD Relax a Little skirt pattern and other top patterns. I'll do a separate blog post for those. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Here are photos of what I'm calling <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/terrihk/sets/72157640147856683/with/12281767865/">Berry and Chocolate coordinates</a> I sewed this fall/winter that will work through this spring. These are good neutral colors for me. The <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/terrihk/12306897855/">dotted Snap To It jacket from last summer works with this group as well as the tank tops and dress from Loes Hinse Tank dress pattern</a> I made after moving to NC. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Typically the photos are taken while I'm getting ready to go somewhere, and when I remember to get a photo taken.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> As Net-A-Porter says, if you want to wear spring (lighter weight) garments in cold weather, just add tights! </span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Here is a sweater coat in brown and pinks using Loes Hinse Sweater Coat pattern (I always modify the collar size and length). This time I used the selvedges along all hemmed edges - including pockets and sleeves. It looks great over my pink/beige Liberty jacket and Plaza pants, and with the dark chocolate brown tapered pant I'm wearing from Cutting Line Design's My Swing Set pattern. I sewed pale pink petersham along the front plackets to stabilize the large buttons and snaps underneath.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7362/12306900675_df187702eb_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7362/12306900675_df187702eb_n.jpg" /></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5510/12208402245_4e5170a039_m.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5510/12208402245_4e5170a039_m.jpg" /></a><a href="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3768/12211078025_ed28e11c80_m.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3768/12211078025_ed28e11c80_m.jpg" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5490/12190345295_c3d47f876f_m.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5490/12190345295_c3d47f876f_m.jpg" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">This top is Cutting Line Designs latest pattern, Simplify Your Life, worn over the MSS tapered pant. I used a coordinating fabric for the facings. I'll wear this in the spring.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This is The Sewing Workshop's Cortona Shirt in the same fabric as the top above, worn over one of the LH tanks and a skirt in a textured knit/stretch lace fabric. I like the darts and shape, esp the peplum that is formed at the back. It's a great layering piece and works as a jacket or shirt.</span></div>
<a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7449/12327352093_da69d9b2e3_m.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3795/12329265154_ea619cf266_m.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3795/12329265154_ea619cf266_m.jpg" /></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7449/12327352093_da69d9b2e3_m.jpg" /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7322/12135093675_672cd71d33_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7322/12135093675_672cd71d33_n.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/proxy/AVvXsEhQfh-9331KKhwNQG9piqwZKBD2ay0XfAoLce51N70OCtgIc573noee08s3VVSqZYBFfimVKr5HAvvv0AxOLPnuh2pBMae8O2MCiTEX3G3GF9UXGTj6yr8mPag-p7W8JT5k-0WhVcGa03ziHrrITsJLfujOuNwDUg-wA4O7DhyW=" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3830/12135089805_9595aa2af1_n.jpg" /></a></div>
<a href="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3830/12135089805_9595aa2af1_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2844/12135390323_7671ef02ca_m.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I used the knit selvedge as a ruffle trim along the edge of this bias skirt that is my adaptation of an old Burda Style pattern. I made a Eureka top out of the same fabric, cut the hems along the selvedge and used the back/stretch lace side for the contrast bindings. Here it is over the Loes Hinse Tank dress. I think I lengthened this top that looks great belted as well.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/proxy/AVvXsEiiIdAxBdWQ9Dsc-yHpz_3oj22rCSfMy-w06zCiq3-v0GCGJgoc0bAlzC9HEwSnhMgUM-CRw6U4BSBHVU4AdqOtlP_JN1TM2Yxg-XUGcovhuZgSSgNLAaZMqmBVkD06ehDRDIaMyVHutnZ4LZiUbx-oXsWYeuEe6fNmLpTD-vNH=" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2844/12135390323_7671ef02ca_m.jpg" /></a><a href="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2866/12135786916_8af6b7bd29_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2866/12135786916_8af6b7bd29_n.jpg" /></a></div>
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<br />
<!-- Blogger automated replacement: "https://images-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http%3A%2F%2Ffarm3.staticflickr.com%2F2844%2F12135390323_7671ef02ca_m.jpg&container=blogger&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image%2F*" with "https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/proxy/AVvXsEiiIdAxBdWQ9Dsc-yHpz_3oj22rCSfMy-w06zCiq3-v0GCGJgoc0bAlzC9HEwSnhMgUM-CRw6U4BSBHVU4AdqOtlP_JN1TM2Yxg-XUGcovhuZgSSgNLAaZMqmBVkD06ehDRDIaMyVHutnZ4LZiUbx-oXsWYeuEe6fNmLpTD-vNH=" --><!-- Blogger automated replacement: "https://images-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http%3A%2F%2Ffarm4.staticflickr.com%2F3830%2F12135089805_9595aa2af1_n.jpg&container=blogger&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image%2F*" with "https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/proxy/AVvXsEhQfh-9331KKhwNQG9piqwZKBD2ay0XfAoLce51N70OCtgIc573noee08s3VVSqZYBFfimVKr5HAvvv0AxOLPnuh2pBMae8O2MCiTEX3G3GF9UXGTj6yr8mPag-p7W8JT5k-0WhVcGa03ziHrrITsJLfujOuNwDUg-wA4O7DhyW=" -->Terri Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15664663692345724425noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7267029854064444233.post-54031678284773909152013-12-07T16:21:00.001-05:002013-12-09T09:57:07.814-05:00December Update & My Lagenlook<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #4c1130; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">Hi everybody. I've had a busy fall and haven't had a chance to post my garment sewing. I deleted the October post about the drapes I made and my interior decorating because it obviously was of little interest. I plan on posting photos of the collection of garments I sewed from the fabrics I blogged about in September when I get a chance to put them on and have photos taken of how I wear them and how they're supposed to look - on me. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #4c1130; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #4c1130; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">I had a good check-up at Johns Hopkins early last week and enjoyed the balmy weather along the east coast, stopping for a couple of days in Williamsburg VA. When we got home to Asheville it was still nearly 70 degrees and stayed that way until early this morning when it went down into the 40's. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #4c1130; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #4c1130; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">When going from the mountains to the east coast and back, especially in early winter, it's hard to plan so I check the ten day forecast and take layers. I decided to buy myself these fun and fancy lace-up ankle boots with ruffles from Anthropologie when all their sale items were discounted another 20%. I never get tired of comfortable ankle boots. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #4c1130; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7343/11257123436_c1b8d16015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #4c1130; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7343/11257123436_c1b8d16015.jpg" width="279" /></span></a><a href="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5497/11257121196_b1ddfc6c7a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #4c1130; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5497/11257121196_b1ddfc6c7a.jpg" width="194" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #4c1130; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">Here's my layered "Lagenlook" outfit that can go from the 40's to the balmy 60's and higher by adding or removing layers. I didn't sew any of these pieces but I routinely travel with and wear similar layered outfits from pieces that I have sewn over the years, adding interesting belts, shoes and accessories. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3684/11257126506_f09dd183d7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #4c1130; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3684/11257126506_f09dd183d7.jpg" width="179" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #4c1130; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">For this Lagenlook, I start with this swooshy bias cut Viyella (cotton/wool blend) skirt and a multi-tiered cotton petticoat by Laura Ashely I've owned since my 26 year old son was a little boy - and it's not an elastic waist skirt either! In cool weather I wear textured tights. I love its moss greens and pinks and warm hues of burnt umber and how I can wear tops of many colors and weights with both or either. Layers add a bit of weight but done correctly you look put together, not heavier, plus you are warm. The skirt is slimmer looking when worn without the petticoat layer. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #4c1130; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2857/11257192763_0506740609.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2857/11257192763_0506740609.jpg" width="179" /></a><a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7460/11257099275_971ff219eb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7460/11257099275_971ff219eb.jpg" width="179" /></a></span></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #4c1130; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #4c1130; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">The pink top is fine gauge cotton knit by Moth from Anthropologie that </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #4c1130; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">I bought it on eBay at least 7 years ago.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #4c1130; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;"> It has a ruffled peplum and knitted on lace at the neckline. I like how <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/terrihk/4193279773/">the unhemmed, trumpeted sleeves roll</a> to peak out from the jacket sleeves. It also looks great worn by itself just with the tiered white cotton petticoat. I pulled out one of my multi-pocketed Safari look jackets in a a green/beige cross dye wool/linen blend also from Doncaster I bought in 2003 (with matching slacks). You see this classic jacket interpreted by designers every year and every season. I can wear the olive leather belt layered over either top. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #4c1130; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #4c1130; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">So that's one of my Lagenlooks. If you're interested, there are more outfits and photos of this skirt and others on my <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/terrihk/sets/72157624226329784/with/11257099275/">Long Casual Skirt Flickr Set</a>. I'm sure you all have your own versions that you enjoy wearing!</span>Terri Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15664663692345724425noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7267029854064444233.post-1938265189928746172013-09-27T14:24:00.003-04:002013-09-29T15:11:05.850-04:00Early Fall Coordinates from The Sewing Workshop - Here's How I Wore It End of September brings pretty and cool days here. The leaves on some trees and ornamentals are already shades of red and purple. It's my favorite time of year and I can wear a third layer with everything. <br />
<br />
This is what I wore to do a few things in town and out and about today. Everything in this outfit is from <a href="http://sewingworkshop.com/">The Sewing Workshop</a> coordinates I've sewn. This is an <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/terrihk/sets/72157632398421764/with/8346836469/">8th Avenue skirt in a textured rayon with an Ann's Tank in metallic knit </a>and the <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/terrihk/sets/72157632949183478/with/8539760738/">Pearl jacket I made out of a microfiber raincoat fabric</a>. I belted the jacket and ruched up the collar. I wore it with textured hose and flat White Mountain ankle boots made in the USA (like my clothes) that I've owned for many years before their production left the US. They are the softest calfskin leather with leather soles - not the garbage coming in from Asia these days. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7429/9967824045_6a13637931_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7429/9967824045_6a13637931_c.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />Terri Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15664663692345724425noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7267029854064444233.post-18749439882534372552013-09-26T00:30:00.001-04:002013-09-26T09:28:52.258-04:00Fall colors and coordinates<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5330/9940284825_ae13eb3c7f_b.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5330/9940284825_ae13eb3c7f_b.jpg" width="258" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3811/9940407353_83527ec90a_h.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3811/9940407353_83527ec90a_h.jpg" width="205" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">You wanted to see fabrics and read about planning so here they are.</span></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
Earlier this month <a href="http://www.sewingworkshop.com/blogs/227-marvelous-mulberrys">Linda Lee blogged about their Marvelous Mulberrys</a>, or as she says, "m<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 16px;">agenta, mulberry, burgundy, plum, cranberry - whatever the season's color flavor is called, this color category is always in fashion, one way or another. " </span></span><br />
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 16px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 16px;">The same colors I had pulled together out of my stash a month earlier. I just love these deep warm colors that work with browns and golds. </span></span><br />
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 16px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 16px;">Seeing <a href="http://sewingworkshop.com/shop?page=shop.product_details&flypage=flypage.pbv.v1.tpl&product_id=1407&category_id=17">this plaid knit on their site</a>, then seeing <a href="https://scontent-b-iad.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/p480x480/544534_607031466015793_542418113_n.jpg">this photo of Linda's daughter, Alex, wearing a Eureka top in the same plaid knit with an eDress skirt</a>, confirmed it would would work with my fall color choices so I asked them to wrap it up and send it with the <a href="http://www.sewingworkshop.com/shop?page=shop.product_details&flypage=flypage.pbv.v1.tpl&product_id=1583&category_id=6">new </a></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; line-height: 18px;"><a href="http://www.sewingworkshop.com/shop?page=shop.product_details&flypage=flypage.pbv.v1.tpl&product_id=1583&category_id=6">Siena & Cortona Shirts pattern</a>.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 16px;"> I love how the aqua just pops. So here it is with my fabric choices.</span></span></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 16px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So from left to right, clockwise, here's what I'm planning (Click on photos to enlarge and see detail)</span><br />
<div>
<ul>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The crinkled purple knit is the same weight as the plaid so I will combine the plaid as an accent - Not sure if it will be a top or bottom.</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The plaid knit with the aqua has to be a simple top like the Eureka</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The cotton shirting with a textured woven stripe is from Michael's Fabrics in Baltimore when I was in the area for the ASG - he said it's Hugo Boss. It's crisp and the same on both sides so I'm thinking it would be a marvelous Cortona shirt with that peplum in the back. I could wear it over the plaid</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The mauve with mulberry is a wool/rayon brocade that I have just about a yard. I've been saving it for facings and accents.</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The dark raspberry linen is really quite dark. It's from Louise Cutting and I have it earmarked for some slim MSS pants and a third layer</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The embossed knit is from Fabric Mart and I already have a Loes Hinse Tank Dress (shown in first photo) and two of the tank tops from that pattern with both neckline treatments in that fabric. I have plenty left and may make a skirt using the e-Dress pattern</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The mulberry plaid is a wonderful stretch novelty knit from Fabric Mart. It's got a neutral beige running through it and the back side looks like stretch lace. I have a simple drapy/artistic skirt in the works, a cowl neck top on the bias and maybe more pieces. Once I get working with a fabric like this, it starts talking to me.</span></li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3814/9940402153_9b3c53277b_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3814/9940402153_9b3c53277b_b.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Here's another photo of the solid linen and the shirting with a printed linen and a sheer textured knit with mulberry and olive colors. The printed linen is actually <a href="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5476/9940301094_94b280c3f4_b.jpg">a wrap skirt with several wide bias panels</a> that I feel like cutting apart and making a top from and using the rest as accents. The knit is semi-sheer and you see the color underneath - so it has to be a drapy third layer.</span></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">These fabrics and new coordinates will work with things I already own. This sheer black mohair knit over a fuschia jersey is one because, together it reads "black raspberry" and looks great with the mulberry group.</span></div>
<div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 16px;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 16px;"></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7405/9940394823_6f7d933f2a_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7405/9940394823_6f7d933f2a_b.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 16px;">The good news is that I can just thread my machines and go, not having to change the thread. <a href="http://dementedkiwidiaries.blogspot.com/2013/09/old-dogs-and-new-tricks.html">Jacquianne in New Zealand posted on her Demented Kiwi Diaries blog</a> how she used the many capabilities of her Babylock Cover Stitch machine to make a number of great looking tops. After reading about her successes, I rewatched the instruction DVD that came with my Evolve this evening and will be testing a number of stitches on the knit fabrics.</span></span></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 16px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 16px;">BTW if anyone has the actual coordinating plaid to this embossed knit and doesn't want or need it, I'd like to buy it from you. Here's a good photo of the tank top and the coordinate that FM ran out of when I ordered probably in '03 or '04.</span></span></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 16px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2290/2244707052_107dbd3a7b_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2290/2244707052_107dbd3a7b_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 16px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 16px;"></span></span></div>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
</div>
Terri Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15664663692345724425noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7267029854064444233.post-89010974692262511792013-09-14T18:39:00.004-04:002013-09-15T00:34:11.613-04:00What a Difference 2 Years Makes<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: purple; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I apologize for not posting for many months. I have posted photos on Flickr of the garments I've sewn but I'm not one to post "selfies" of me doing all sorts of ridiculous things and don't think people need, or want to know about my every acquisition or activity. I have been wearing the garments I've made while enjoying life and doing simple things like walking in my neighborhood in the hills surrounding Asheville NC. The weather here over the last month since I got back from the ASG conference and my trip to the DC/Baltimore area in early August has been wonderful. I enjoyed seeing all my friends from Expos and ASGs past, and meeting new ones. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: purple; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: purple; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Check out the <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/terrihk/sets/72157632686166911/with/9340411280/">Flickr Set for details on these 2 Snap To It jackets</a> using the latest pattern by Louise Cutting that I sewed and wore to the conference. You can really work this jacket style that seems to go with everything. And if you've made one of these, turn the cuffs back, especially if you've used a contrast fabric for the under cuff. Both these jackets coordinate well with the colors in the fabrics I used, to include the black accents. You will get tons of complements on this jacket - I sure do.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: purple; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5504/9410319792_0586e2b932_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5504/9410319792_0586e2b932_z.jpg" width="204" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3736/9340411280_ab4bcf4470_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3736/9340411280_ab4bcf4470_z.jpg" width="180" /></a><a href="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5503/9340410820_73c36ce370_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5503/9340410820_73c36ce370_z.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6235/6289798755_20ba94ae8b_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6235/6289798755_20ba94ae8b_z.jpg" width="233" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: purple; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">October 24, 2011</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: purple; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The weather here has cooled so today I layered two of the A Cute Angle (ACA) tops I made in October 2011 over some black stretch poplin RTW pants. </span><br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: purple; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/terrihk/sets/72157627703765891/with/9743560956/">While re-organizing the ACA Flickr Set</a>, I saw the photo (L) taken of me wearing the same sleeveless ACA top the end of October 2011 in MD when I went back to Johns Hopkins Medical Center following the 3 months of plasmapheresis to have the catheter removed and thought OMG! By that time my blood pressure was so low that I was passing out and I was very weak. I look pretty bad. Here's another photo of me </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: purple; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">two months later in December 2011</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: purple; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> wearing the ACA silk pinstripe top - looking a lot better. Then compare those to the one taken today, almost 2 years later and wow, I look a lot healthier, and I am. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7174/6562546051_4f4c2d6dcc_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7174/6562546051_4f4c2d6dcc_z.jpg" width="201" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: purple; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">December 22, 2011</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7285/9743560956_1e8cf64fa9_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7285/9743560956_1e8cf64fa9_z.jpg" width="268" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: purple; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">September 14, 2013</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Terri Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15664663692345724425noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7267029854064444233.post-29380410939440694002013-03-25T20:40:00.000-04:002013-03-27T12:10:49.605-04:00TSW eSkirt and Lisette Attache Peplum Blouse<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8093/8589693969_69416901f2_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8090/8590793846_835222af6a_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8090/8590793846_835222af6a_b.jpg" width="169" /></a><img border="0" height="320" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8093/8589693969_69416901f2_b.jpg" width="144" /></div>
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">This is another set for my gray/black/white coordinate group. The fabric is a black with grey/white <a href="http://www.sewlisette.com/fabric/L0211">dots cotton poplin fabric </a>designed by <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; line-height: 18px;"><a href="http://www.sewlisette.com/about/">Liesl Gibson, who also produces the Lisette pattern line for Simplicity Patterns. </a></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8237/8593730942_0a69d6e303_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8237/8593730942_0a69d6e303_b.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">L-R <br />Lisette dotted poplin<br />Gray tweed knit (#5028) and double sided linen plaid both from Apple Annie's fabrics<br />Gray stretch lace from Fabric Mart Fabrics </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">I wanted to try </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 18px;"><a href="http://www.sewlisette.com/patterns/attache">the latest Lisette pattern, the Attache </a></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">(Simplicity #1666) as a peplum top to wear with the e Skirt. I just love the eSkirt and all the variations you can come up with. The shape is flattering and so current. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">As for the Simplicity pattern - Well I haven't sewn a Simplicity pattern in I can't tell you how long. It had the old facings with bulky shoulder seams that I modified with Louise Cutting's technique for eliminating the seams on neckline facings (copied her <a href="http://webstore.quiltropolis.net/stores_app/Browse_Item_Details.asp?Shopper_id=686632520596866&Store_id=516&page_id=23&Item_ID=1280">My Hearts a'Flutter shell </a>neckline facing) and used Linda Lee's technique for the narrow hems of the <a href="http://sewingworkshop.com/shop?page=shop.product_details&flypage=flypage.pbv.v1.tpl&product_id=1402&category_id=81">Pearl and Opal jackets</a> on the circular hemline of the peplum top.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">The style, lines and fit of the top are chic and flattering. It requires an 18" zipper in the back or you couldn't put it on. This is a shirt weight cotton poplin and has a crisp hand - like good poplin. I'm sure if you used a knit or <a href="http://www.sewlisette.com/blog/2013/02/attache-dress-simplicity-1666/">crepe fabric like Liesl used for her Attache dress</a>, it would behave differently.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">Here's the eSkirt again worn with the stretch lace Giorgio's Top. In this photo, I pleated up one side of the top and secured the pleats with a pin to create an asymmetrical look. I like it.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8506/8589692549_3096bc2d2c_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8506/8589692549_3096bc2d2c_b.jpg" width="211" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span>Terri Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15664663692345724425noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7267029854064444233.post-45382949078867681372013-03-24T00:09:00.003-04:002013-03-28T23:04:13.871-04:00Spring Coordinates - Tops, Pants, Skirts and a Jacket<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">The forsythia bushes are blooming along the front hill. I haven't sewn any yellow but I have sewn several spring coordinates in grays that work very well with yellow and white and black - popular spring colors. I like gray because it's elegant and sophisticated. I've <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/terrihk/8593730942/in/photostream/">mixed different patterns and textures</a> to keep these pieces modern and interesting. The beautiful double sided linen plaid with a great selvedge and the tweedy knit are from Apple Annie Fabrics - love her customer service and how she puts together coordinating color groups on her site. I also have some yellow pieces in the works.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8365/8565604598_94706f4c06_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8365/8565604598_94706f4c06_b.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I sewed two pair of pants from Cutting Line Designs patterns I've sewn before - a pair of Discover Something Novel pants for this group in a blue-gray and white seersucker from Ralph Lauren and a pair of chambray blue Easy Ageless and Cool pants that go with another blue/white group - more on that later.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"><a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8240/8584284688_c760934804_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8240/8584284688_c760934804_b.jpg" width="150" /></a></span></span></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Here are two of <a href="http://www.silhouettepatterns.com/html/patterns/p_312.htm">Giorgio's Top by Silhouette Patterns</a>. This pattern has 4 main pieces and 8 seams. I cut a size 2 B cup based on my measurements and it fits great without being snug anywhere. I hate tight or snug fitting garments. The top just skims the body and hangs nicely over the hips. I used a lightweight, very stretchy woven pinstripe - probably Italian based on where I bought it in MD, to check the fit. It has a ton of stretch along the pinstripes and doesn't press or hold a hem well so I just serge finished the edges. Here's a close-up of the fabric and the finish. My second Giorgio's top is in a blue-gray stretch lace. I cut along the edges of the motifs on the hem and used the same neck binding technique from The Sewing Workshop's e-Dress/Skirt pattern. I can wear the pinstripe top by itself or under the stretch lace one or wear the lace one over various camisoles as shown in the photos of it with coordinates here and on Flickr.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I used the stretch lace on the bottom of a charcoal gray rayon knit skirt to coordinate with the tops and other things. I've got several more versions of the eSkirt in these colors planned, so this is just the first one. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8384/8579496750_173af3373b_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="210" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8384/8579496750_173af3373b_c.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8248/8579498220_2cd0ddd8b3_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8248/8579498220_2cd0ddd8b3_b.jpg" width="246" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8240/8584284688_c760934804_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8373/8579499374_54e3ff05ba_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8373/8579499374_54e3ff05ba_b.jpg" width="125" /></a><a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8386/8582331349_a04d792294_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8386/8582331349_a04d792294_b.jpg" width="144" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I made another Pearl jacket from the <a href="http://sewingworkshop.com/shop?page=shop.product_details&flypage=flypage.pbv.v1.tpl&product_id=1402&category_id=81">new Pearl and Opal Jacket pattern by The Sewing Workshop </a>since I liked the first one I made from the microfiber so well. This one is in an interesting gauzy double sided linen plaid. It has a wonderful sheerness and coordinates with many things. I even matched the plaids pretty well, esp in the back. I styled these together and with some other garments and those photos are on Flickr. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I'm working on a few more pieces </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">and doing other interesting and productive things so I am just getting around to posting about these garments. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8228/8580828744_b5aab6c1a9_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8228/8580828744_b5aab6c1a9_b.jpg" width="214" /></a><a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8105/8580828232_bc6ccdf4e0_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8105/8580828232_bc6ccdf4e0_b.jpg" width="203" /></a><a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8104/8579728557_d02d610e62_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8104/8579728557_d02d610e62_b.jpg" width="138" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I got to preview the Western North Carolina Orchid Show at the NC Arboretum yesterday afternoon since we are members. I went in when it opened at 4 PM so I could get shots without crowds of people all around. I took lots of great photos that I put on Flickr in their own set.</span></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
Terri Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15664663692345724425noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7267029854064444233.post-90312142527343359502013-03-09T14:11:00.000-05:002013-03-09T16:28:30.452-05:00Neutral Coordinates for Spring<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8247/8542626782_0bfde10873_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8247/8542626782_0bfde10873_c.jpg" width="214" /></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">Well it's already 65 and sunny outside. Our house is a passive solar design and faces east. It's wonderful when the sun shines through the windows and skylights. I was too ill and the weather was too yucky for a photo of me wearing the My Hearts A'Flutter blouse after I made it, so I got my stylist to take some photos this morning. Don't you love the lines on this one. I'm still wearing, the designers are showing, and the stores are still selling straight leg pants like these. These are Kalso Earth ruched suede gladiator sandals that I have in the taupe and black. Love the comfort and style of these.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">I also did some great snoop shopping at Neiman Marcus Last Call after doing the Expo on Thursday. They had just gotten a shipment of uber expensive designer pieces with great lines and details. And one of the associates was a fellow sewer who was arranging the new pieces while we discussed the details and I tried them on. I didn't see anything I felt like trying on so no photos - but I did buy two vests with unique details that I can really work into my spring coordinates. Here is one of them.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8515/8541527629_04454c0e7d_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8515/8541527629_04454c0e7d_c.jpg" width="214" /></span></a><a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8235/8541527249_8d1bbf1847_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8235/8541527249_8d1bbf1847_c.jpg" width="239" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8365/8542625784_3ddc4df649_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8365/8542625784_3ddc4df649_c.jpg" width="157" /></span></a></div>
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">This long striped vest (or sleeveless jacket) is by Piazza Sempione. It is stretch cotton, unlined with every seam or hem trimmed with a fine cotton Hong Kong finish. It's from the Spring 2012 line and the style (not the same stripe) is shown with a long blouse and skirt in this runway photo from NY Magazine. I knew I had these 4-ply silk pants in a warm sienna brown that would coordinate and lots of white linen and a couple white dresses it will look great over. I love easy neutrals for spring/summer. Doesn't the long blouse look like the Artist in Motion top?</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://pixel.nymag.com/imgs/fashion/shows/2012/spring/milan/rtw/piazza-sempione/collection-full-length/4.o.jpg/a_4x.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://pixel.nymag.com/imgs/fashion/shows/2012/spring/milan/rtw/piazza-sempione/collection-full-length/4.o.jpg/a_4x.jpg" width="213" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">Piazza Sempione Spring 2012<br /><a href="http://nymag.com/thecut/fashion/shows/2012/spring/milan/rtw/piazza-sempione.html#slideshow=/services/fashion/get.fashion.slideshow.json:2012.spring.milan.rtw.piazza-sempione.collection-full-length%7CcurrentSlide=00004">NY Magazine Fashion</a></span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
Terri Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15664663692345724425noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7267029854064444233.post-31074062980493029302013-03-08T13:16:00.000-05:002015-11-02T20:23:14.239-05:00Atlanta Sewing Expo and 3 jackets in 3 Days<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #660000; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">We drove to Duluth GA for the first day of the Atlanta Sewing Expo yesterday. I like to see friends there and both my favorite pattern designers, Louise Cutting AND Linda Lee were there with booths and trunk shows and FABRIC you can't find anywhere else. It was so nice to see and speak to women I'd met in the years before, <a href="http://miasews.blogspot.com/">Carole M</a>, <a href="http://nowsewing.blogspot.com/">Martha Myers</a> and <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/34380379@N08/8474308397/in/pool-cuttinglinedesign">Vivian who was wearing her Artist in Motion vest.</a> I met many other stylish women at their booths, and can't remember all their names. It's refreshing to interact with genuine and dignified women as opposed to the bizarre and snooty behavior I've experienced from some who live in and around Asheville. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #660000; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #660000; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I was sick off and on most of February after some IGNORANT woman coughed in my face when we went shopping one day in early February. I don't like being on immune suppressants and avoid crowds, high times for restaurants and especially sick people. But when you walk to the restroom in a department store and some idiot walks out spewing infected sputum in a ten foot radius, all over your face - Well, what can I say? And just like clock-work I got the crud and suffered. I always feel better by sewing and creating when I'm able.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #660000; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #660000; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I was looking forward to the Sewing Expo but wasn't sure how well I would be. By the time I decided it was OK to go, all the hotels were booked up. It's only a 3 hour drive from Asheville, just down I26 and then I 85 so my husband and I decided to do a day trip. We had snow and freezing temperatures the day and night before so we had to be sure the driveway and private road was passable before leaving. I had been feeling depressed from being sick and said to myself that I was GOING TO SEW something beautiful to wear to the Expo. Then I sewed not one, but 3 jackets last weekend and Monday. The hardest part was chosing the fabric. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #660000; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #660000; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The Sewing Workshop Pearl Jacket</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #660000; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8523/8540026982_4af65ac47b_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #660000; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8523/8540026982_4af65ac47b_c.jpg" height="320" width="173" /></span></a><a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8518/8540026388_0bae00a1db_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #660000; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8518/8540026388_0bae00a1db_c.jpg" height="320" width="203" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #660000; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8373/8538654113_812b7ff64b_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8373/8538654113_812b7ff64b_c.jpg" height="320" width="155" /></a><a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8510/8539760738_bc24a4ec8f_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8510/8539760738_bc24a4ec8f_c.jpg" height="320" width="194" /></a></span></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #660000; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #660000; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The first was this Pearl jacket from <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/terrihk/sets/72157632949183478/">The Sewing Workshop Pearl and Opal jacket pattern</a>. I am on auto-ship and liked the lines of these jacket. I saw two Donna Karan signature jackets at Neiman Marcus Last Call in drapey silks yesterday that were sisters to this Pearl jacket that I made out of a microfiber raincoat fabric. I used the same fabric for a TSW Carnellian coat that I lengthened and used for a raincoat. I hadn't worn it in years and it was too oversized, so I just cut it up for this new pattern and used the fabric remnant I had saved for the rest. I cut it out and sewed it up in an afternoon. It was so easy to sew and looks fabulous over other pieces I already have. Microfiber isn't the easiest to press and that was the most time consuming. I didn't use the same grain on some pieces because I was recycling the fabric but it doesn't show. My intent was to have a layering, windbreaker type jacket and this fits the bill. It is also posted on the Sewing Workshop's gallery for this pattern. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #660000; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #660000; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><u>Note</u> that these jackets are more fitted than older TSW patterns. TSW is now publishing finished measurements on their patterns - THANK YOU! S</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #660000; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">o I cut both these jackets in size Medium vs the small I usually make in their patterns. More details on the Flickr Set - link above.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #660000; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #660000; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The Sewing Workshop Opal Jacket</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #660000; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8098/8538647451_f43bedbeac_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8505/8539755454_65078445d9_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8519/8538648037_11a9685dbd_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #660000; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #660000; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8505/8539755454_65078445d9_c.jpg" height="320" width="198" /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #660000; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8098/8538647451_f43bedbeac_c.jpg" height="320" width="194" /></span></div>
<br />
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8526/8539755180_5b578276dc_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #660000;"><img border="0" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8526/8539755180_5b578276dc_c.jpg" height="320" width="250" /></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #660000; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The next was the Opal jacket . It is a semi-fitted, curvy jacket with seams and shaping in the back. I used an Italian paisley stretch denim/twill fabric from Emmaonesock. I bought this, and another piece of the same fabric in different colors a few years ago. I didn't want a garment that screamed PAISLEY! so I needed to be careful of my choice of pattern and lines. This pattern and fabric were made for each other. The pattern instructions include great finishing techniques and all are easy to achieve. I stabilized the front darts with cotton twill tape because of the stretch factor and used the tape as a design element. I used petersham ribbon as my button/snap stabilizer vs the self fabric placket in the pattern. This jacket has 3 large snaps instead of buttons and like the way it looks both open or closed. I wore it while shopping in the Neiman Marcus across from the Gwinnet Center in Duluth yesterday and got lots of complements. No photos of me wearing it but here it is on the manniquin. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #660000; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8228/8538871818_4a1dca4557_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8243/8478676835_ab9e39bfcd_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/terrihk/sets/72157632791214986/with/8539755920/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #660000; font-size: large;">My Swing Set Jacket</span></a><a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8228/8538871818_4a1dca4557_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #660000; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #660000; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #660000; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8228/8538871818_4a1dca4557_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #660000;"></span></a><a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8383/8539755920_26d9cafa4d_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #660000;"><img border="0" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8383/8539755920_26d9cafa4d_c.jpg" height="320" width="218" /></span></a><a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8243/8478676835_ab9e39bfcd_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #660000;"><img border="0" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8243/8478676835_ab9e39bfcd_c.jpg" height="320" width="165" /></span></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #660000;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #660000;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Then last, but not least, I sewed my version of the <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/terrihk/albums/72157632791214986">My Swing Set jacket</a> in the latest pattern by Louise Cutting. After measuring and deciding how I wanted this jacket out of this fabric to fit, I cut the XS in the top and sleeve and graded to the S at the sides. I also had to shorten the XS sleeve length. </span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">This chunky knit Eileen Fisher fabric in a gray/purple that worked out so well. Depending on the light it looks more gray or purple. It's a very drapey, chunky knit with a lot of rayon in it. I bought the rust/black Babette SF cardigan jacket pictured above this winter. I like the cut-on front placket and the stand-up collar. To get the same look from the MSS jacket pattern I eliminated the horizontal seam in the front and just folded back the front pattern pieces at where I wanted my fold line to I interfaced a 2" strip down the front and used the selvedge at the edge. I then used a partial front neckline facing and sewed the rest of the jacket and stand-up collar per the instructions. I interfaced the front fold-over placket and collar/facing sections with a designer light-weight interfacing that gave the knit just the body and stability needed for the stand-up collar and front placket. It worked out perfectly and is soft and cozy to wear. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I love the big snaps. These are plastic, not metal so they are very light and don't drag the fabric down.</span></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I wore this to the Expo yesterday over </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/terrihk/606624832/lightbox/">the gray Textile Studio gray stretch wool Soho pants and Monaco T top</a></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">. I don't look so great, but that's the real me after dealing with a month of illness. And you can see the snow on the ground and deck rail. We always seem to get plenty of snow in March!</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #660000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8228/8538871818_9ded55bdc0_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8228/8538871818_9ded55bdc0_z.jpg" width="301" /></a></span></span></div>
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #660000;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #660000; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #660000; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />Terri Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15664663692345724425noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7267029854064444233.post-30880169911621962292013-02-23T17:43:00.002-05:002013-02-23T17:48:14.271-05:00A Blouse Confection<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8233/8501812428_269e2bccfb_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8233/8501812428_269e2bccfb_b.jpg" width="204" /></a><a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8094/8501811712_b63efeddf2_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8094/8501811712_b63efeddf2_b.jpg" width="222" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Here's my latest creation made from <a href="http://webstore.quiltropolis.net/stores_app/Browse_Item_Details.asp?Shopper_id=50752231726505075&Store_id=516&page_id=23&Item_ID=1280">Louise Cutting's My Hearts A'Flutter pattern</a>. The pattern for this is an overblouse with open vents at the sides and meant to be worn over the coordinating shell included in the patter. For this top I was inspired by seeing so many sheer looks over black and other colored shells and color-blocked opaque linings. In the upper left photo I put a beige silk jersey shell underneath and paired it with a silk jacquared skirt with abstract dots. In the upper right there is nothing underneath it. <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/terrihk/8499369410/in/photostream/lightbox/"> I took a photo of it over a black silk crepe top</a> while I was fitting it, before it was finished.</span><br />
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8528/8499368260_331e895a66_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="205" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8528/8499368260_331e895a66_c.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> I decided to make my own interpretation using this cotton organdy embroidered with beige thread that has a bit of sheen. I bought the fabric originally for a cardigan jacket, using the edges and doing another <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/terrihk/sets/72157612200998231/">Loes Hinse Bergman Chanel interpretation</a>, but decided that this style was so much more interesting, a more casual chic look that goes with so many of my neutral pants, skirts and shells. </span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8507/8498264909_b14bdca088_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8507/8498264909_b14bdca088_c.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><i>Front side piece slightly off grain</i></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8226/8498265301_2faa9f0967_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="209" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8226/8498265301_2faa9f0967_b.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><i>Matching edging for back sleeve piece</i></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I only had about a yard and a half of the fabric, and I got this top out of it with a small piece to spare. This one is size XS since my first HAF overblouse was pretty roomy. I closed up lower sides to achieve more of a blouse look. I was very systematic in my assembly, waiting until I had the top front attached to <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/terrihk/8499368512/in/photostream">the back</a> before even cutting out the front lower panel, and to properly match up the back sleeve piece with the front sleeve. The heavy embroidery was challenging to sew over and I used a 3mm stitch length instead of the shorter ones. </span></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">After a test of interfaced cotton batiste for the back facing, I decided there was too much "show through" and used <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/terrihk/8499369000/in/photostream/">a beige silk organza that is barely visible through the organdy</a>. I'll get a photo of me wearing it when the weather improves, and I get over this cold virus I've been fighting</span>.</div>
</div>
Terri Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15664663692345724425noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7267029854064444233.post-36921875258344003422013-02-14T22:45:00.000-05:002013-02-15T00:30:07.156-05:00Artist in Motion tunic using the wool/cashmere Escada <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">After thinking and measuring and planning and measuring some more, I cut Louise Cutting's Artist in Motion Top pattern from the charcoal gray wool/cashmere layer of the <a href="http://sewsophisticated.blogspot.com/2013/02/restyling-and-refashioning.html">oversized Escada coat</a>. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8382/8474093738_8d683970eb_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="192" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8382/8474093738_8d683970eb_c.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Here's<a href="http://webstore.quiltropolis.net/stores_app/Browse_Item_Details.asp?Shopper_id=8804214210428804&Store_id=516&page_id=23&Item_ID=1298"> the illustration of the tu</a>nic and here's what I ended up with. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8368/8473004695_ceef251292_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8368/8473004695_ceef251292_c.jpg" width="182" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> The unaltered back length of the tunic is 24 5/8". This one is 31" long.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8367/8474341538_6e27363d7f_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8367/8474341538_6e27363d7f_c.jpg" width="219" /></span></a><a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8098/8474094736_75458022ea_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="227" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8098/8474094736_75458022ea_c.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I saved the Escada finished hems, mitered corners at the fronts, keyhole buttonholes and flat-felled seams and cut/sewed it as follows: </span><br />
<ul>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I cut the front pieces with the fold on the already hemmed and mitered plackets and hem of the Escada, even saving the buttonholes and re-using the buttons that I sewed together like those to secure French cuffs; </span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">For the back and sleeves with their flat felled seams, I placed the pattern pieces to use those seams. </span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So my tunic has a flat felled back seam and the finished Escada hem</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The sleeves have flat felled seams down the center that line up with the shoulder seams that I also topstitched and treated as flat felled. </span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I block fused the neckline facing and sewed it per the pattern instructions and did a little hand stitching.</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I stitched the front plackets together for nine inches in the center, leaving the top opening the same and a 12 inch vent at the bottom. I omitted the side vents.</span></li>
</ul>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">More detail shots of the finished tunic on my Flickr photos. </span></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>NEWS!</b> There is a new <a href="http://www.flickr.com/groups/cuttinglinedesign/">Flickr Group for Louise Cutting's patterns and garments </a>sewn from them. You are invited to join and visit that site to see everyone's garments, photos of us at events and to share and show us your own!</span></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Today's Chinchilla Drama </b></span></u></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">On another note, this morning the <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/terrihk/8474274711/in/photostream/">bad boy chinchilla</a> attacked and bit <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/terrihk/8475363578/in/photostream/">old Woodley</a> through the slat of the wooden ceiling separating them. I came down do do a little pressing on my tunic and gave both of them a piece of raw almond (one of their favorite treats). Snowball went chinchilla <a href="http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=apeshit">ape-shit</a>, bit Woodley's foot, and there was blood all over the place. I took Woodley <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/terrihk/8474274073/in/photostream/">out of his house that he ran into</a> and got several paper towels - still bleeding. Shouted for husband to get the band-aids. I applied pressure and stopped the bleeding and put the band-aid on. Remember these are little guys. We then reversed them. Snowball is now on the top and Woodley is on the bottom. I even put a block of wood on the edge where he bit Woodley's foot while standing on that shelf. I don't want Woodley to stick his nose up there and Snowball to bite him. Tonight Woodley is fine and took the band-aid off himself. If the Perp keeps it up he's going to be serving a long sentence in the chinchilla slammer - the small metal cage on top.</span></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8511/8474274287_2df300874d_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8511/8474274287_2df300874d_b.jpg" width="239" /></span></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Terri Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15664663692345724425noreply@blogger.com7