Vogue 1175

MISSES' DRESS: Close-fitting, above mid-knee length, pullover, lined dress has contrast bodice back, seam detail, pleated front and back, side front in-seam pockets and puffed hem.

I never would have chosen this pattern had I not seen gabc's review of it on Pattern Review.  She made a lovely version in linen and broderie anglaise as well as a wearable muslin in ikat-print linen.

Since I'm a rectangle, no joke, think Sponge Bob only taller, I made the 18 based on the chest measurement.  Fits fine there but it's huge everywhere else to include the straps being waaaay too long.  One would needs arms like Michael Phelps to use the pockets they're so low.  Arrrgghh. 

This pattern has very odd shaped pieces and I have no idea where to make adjustments.  I think I'm going to have to get another pattern to see where the lines for a 14 should be.  In the meantime, I'll have to rrrrrriiiiiipppp out the seams... even the serged ones. So not my favorite thing to do.

I'm completely bummed.... I finished the lining beautifully and love the fabric.  Here's hoping for a salvage!

Fabric

Even though I've spoken about the insane amount of fabric I already have, I do have to confess....I've done it again. But I've got plans for it all - I promise!

 On the way from Fashionfabricsclub.com:



Flannel



                                                                



Linen

 

From Fabric.com

Seersucker

very lightweight cotton

From Fabricmart Fabrics

stretch cotton

              Poly cotton burnout layed over white fabric               without white background

BurdaStyle Patterns

BurdaStyle magazine patterns I plan on making:

04-2011-122



02-2009-129




09-2011-110



04-2010-102



08-2009-117





07-2008-108







Five of the six will be perfect layering pieces to use now and stand alones for spring/summer.

Jalie 2921

It looked just like the photo and I was very, very pleased.  If you have used this pattern you'll know about the "burrito" method to sewing this top.  If you blindly follow the directions it will work out. Whoever designed this pattern is very clever.  Like everyone else, I love this top! My wearable muslin is now in DD's custody and she'd like another. I need to add a little to the side and shoulder seams when I make it for myself. Maybe just a larger size all around would be best.

UPDATE:  I cut a larger size all over and I'm pleased with the results.  The pale dusty blue jersey I used is very lightweight.  Translation:  can't wear it solo because it clings to all the lumps and bumps but it's a great layering piece!  I've worn the thing so many times it's quite shabby...time to make a new one!

Simplicity 4032

Mostly finished it looks just like the pattern envelope but it doesn't fit!  I didn't make a muslin....bad idea. I'm thick waisted so it doesn't quite fit around my middle - not comfortably at least.

No pattern alterations were made, used olive fleece and the instructions were fine.  I'll definitely sew it again...this time with added inches to the middle!

Grilled Pork Chops with Dried Cranberries

Rosti Potatoes with Ham & Cheese

Goal: \ˈgōl, : the end toward which effort is directed :

This year I WILL reduce the size of the stash.  As soon as I get it all back up onto the shelves I'll get a picture.  We moved recently but over the summer I was able to get it all up on shelves in my gigantic laundry room.  But everytime we showed folks around the new house the inevitable comment was made.. "Wow, there's so much of it". It was making me feel bad so I put it back into boxes.  

I think I know why I keep collecting fabric and TONS of patterns, not to mention years of Burda, and not much to show for it.  I get hung up on fabric selection because choosing a fabric suitable for the pattern has always been a challenge for me.  There are few things I've made that I love.  And then there's the whole "I don't want to waste it and use a fabric I love on the wrong garment."  Such a dilemma.

The bane of my sewing existence?  Button holes.  One would think practising would help... not me - mine still look like I did them with a chain saw. 

So.. the goals: 
1) reduce the stash by a quarter (doesn't sound like a lot but wait until you see what we're talking about here)
2) Make more tops and brave the buttonholes!  Or find a Tailor/dry cleaners that will do them for me :o)
3) Choose my absolute favorite piece of fabric and go for it!

Wish me luck.