• Pattern Review: Burda 6749+ the perfect T-Shirt

    I’d like to keep track of all my ” TNT” patterns on the blog in some way.  TNT stands for tried and true, and in the spirit of classic, well fitting garments, I will try to identify which patterns work with my normal flat pattern adjustments.  If I have to recreate the pattern in every way, the pattern itself wouldn’t be a TNT, in my opinion, but rather a base for your own pattern. I’m not interested in drafting patterns, but I am interested in learning how to identify “good bones” when I look at the technical drawings of a pattern.  I pick up patterns that are popular on pattern…

  • Pattern review: M6884+ THe mock wrap dress

    I don’t know why I’m now making this dress but I really like it!  I saw Brittany J. Jones’ sew along on YouTube and I didn’t understand how she made six, but now I know.  I purchased some Polyester interlock knit from Walmart, with the intention of using it as a muslin.  The fabric is semi- opaque and polyester so not breathable but I like the print.  I’ve joined a few sewing groups and in one we are sewing florals so this was a good time to try this pattern out.  On to the review: Pattern Description:   Close-fitting, pullover, mock-wrap dresses have right front variations, tie ends and narrow…

  • Pattern Review:B5211+ dress hack= Tunic

    Sometimes you just want something easy to sew, this is it.  I’m learning how to fit the flat pattern and make design adjustments.  I made this tunic and a dress on Saturday and I like the way both turned out.  This is an oldie but goodie pattern that has been reviewed 40+ times on pattern Review.  Pattern Description: Dresses have back neck opening with button and thread loop closure, extended shoulders, side pockets and topstitching detail. A: Front upper and lower sections. B: Self-belt. C: Gathered sleeve with elastic casing, length 2″ above mid-knee.  I made view bPattern Sizing:16-24 Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done…

  • Pattern Review: M7261 + Activewear

    Alright, I made workout gear for the first time!  It wasn’t as hard as I thought but worth the experience.  Workout clothes are pretty cheap at Walmart and Old Navy, but I can make the colors I want with the right fit.  I used some super awesome compression fabric and funky color blocking, I really like my makes!  The compression fabric is super heavy, like scuba fabric so I couldn’t wear this during the dead of summer, but hey, it’s winter and a little chilly out.  I will make the pants again because they are awesome and the top too, if I can find some lightweight moisture wicking fabric. And…

  • Another Bomber Jacket- M7100 + Kente Print

    This is my second time making this bomber jacket and well, I’m not sure it will be my last.  There are so many patterns I only make once, and for me that seems like such a waste.  I like simple patterns I can reused again and again.  I have over 300 patterns and well, I think I can probably get rid of half of them (gasp) I know, but if I were truthful, I think I could and should purge the pattern stash. I belong to a number of sewing groups on Facebook and like book clubs, they help me to try different things and stay on track.  I also…

  • Pattern Review: S8054+ Denim vest

    I think this year, I need to go through my patterns and either attempt to make them all or get rid of some of them.  I made this vest as a way to use up some of my stash, I though a denim vest would be versatile.  I really like the vest, but as my wearable muslin, there are some adjustments that need to be made to get it to where I love it.  I think a Crepe might drape nicely and is one of the recommended fabrics.  A light weight Chambray might be nice also.  Anyway, I like the fact that I don’t have to do an FBA so…

  • Pattern Review: S8219+ Faux Fur Vest

    Faux fur is all the rage, I think.  I see it everywhere, but I didn’t jump right on the bandwagon.  The faux fur garments I’ve seen in the stores are nice, but to furry, if that makes sense.  The pile (fur) is usually too long and furry like a dog.  I guess I like the idea of faux fur but not all of the fur.  I found this faux fur, mixed media type fabric at Joann’s; its fur was pretty short and it had some nice dimension to it, I really like it.  So, here’s to the not so furry, faux fur vest… Pattern Description:   This lined vest sized…

  • Pattern Review: B6367- Tunic

    I love super easy patterns that don’t make me cuss!  But me and sleeves are not friends!  I almost slapped this project because my sleeve would not act right.  This is a versatile See and Sew pattern found here, that is great for beginners. I’m  Pattern Description:  Pullover tunic (semi-fitted through bust) has neck and asymmetrical hemline variations, long sleeves, and narrow hem. A: Left side slit and V-neckline. B: Wrong side shows on hemline and scoop neckline. I made view A. Pattern Sizing: 18w-32w, I cut a straight 22w Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Yes Were the…

  • Pattern Review: Simplicity 1363+ Easy breezy top

    Pattern Description: easy-to-sew top has high low hemline with options for short raglan sleeves, cold-shoulder detail or sleeveless. create interest that flatters any body type using color blocking. back has key hole button closure.  I made view D.Pattern Sizing:XXS-XXLDid it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?YesWere the instructions easy to follow?YesWhat did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?I like the loose fit, how easy it was to sew and the sleeve variationsFabric Used:Rayon Challis Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:* I cut a 22 or XL at the neck and graded to a 24 or a little less than…

  • Pattern Review: M7185 + the peekaboo 4th of July dress

    Sooo, no sure if this pattern hasn’t been reviewed, because the patter gurus knew this would be a an X Rated pattern or what, but I like it!  I’ve been looking at this pattern for months, but some accountability, I posted it on social media, saying, “Hey, I’m Making this”!  and folks kept me accountable.  Overall, I like it and look forward to another view with the full skirt!  Here goes.. Pattern Description: Wrap dresses have fitted bodice, French darts, waistband, skirt variations, stitched hem, snap and hook & eye closure. A:Sleeveless and bias facings. B: Rolled, three-quarter length sleeves with button tab. A, B: Mock-bands, semi-fitted skirt, pockets. C:Button waistband, narrow hem on gathered short…