sewing for fall

These are my latest two sewing projects. The first was actually completed some time ago, but I hadn't taken any pictures & more importantly, hadn't convinced my model to put it on for a photo shoot. I love the material I chose (Hobby Lobby) and it was pretty easy to work with. The pattern is Simplicity (easy-to-sew) #5936. I really wanted to include a panel at the bottom, but couldn't find a coordinating fabric in weight to the corduroy I picked out. I initially imagined this would go over a long sleeve shirt, but when I put the jumper on Kate by itself -- I thought it looked pretty cute. So, I guess she could wear corduroy because its September, but no shirt underneath because it's hot.

Two new things in this pattern were zippers & bias tape. The bias tape went well, but the zipper was a bit onerous. As you can see from the close up picture, I didn't achieve an even look in the back, but my zipper works!

Sewing Project #6

Close up of the dastardly zipper! I just noticed that the seams of the back "yoke" don't match up either. I thought it was a last minute mistake in how I tucked in the top seam, but now I see that I probably made a mistake in pinning & basting. Well, live to learn another day!

The adorable model in her new HUGE Sunday shoes. Somehow Carter's Size 6 are about 2 sizes larger than Gymboree sz 6. Go figure! (I paid $3 for them, so it doesn't really matter!) Also, unlike the pattern prescribed, I did a blind hem, which takes up lots of extra material, so it's not really as long as I wanted it. Of course, as a summer dress, this length looks adorable, so maybe I'll let it down once we get to winter time!

My second project was completed this morning. I love my fabric choice (Hobby Lobby, again), but I'm not sure I LOVE the style of the dress. I tried to customize the fit a bit more this time; but the dress still ended up too large all over. So, maybe it'll be a better fit in the Spring or even next Summer. Funnily enough, the thing that gave me the most trouble was the pocket. I just couldn't understand their directions & didn't know what the end product (the inside of a pocket) really looks like. Now that I know, I'll be adding pockets onto everything! The collar went surprisingly smoothly, and once I remembered how my buttonhole foot worked; the buttons went as smooth as silk. I even have a button foot that helps me sew on buttons! Now that is a tool every one of you should invest in. Well, everyone of you who hates hand sewing, that is! (I stink at it!)

Sewing Project #7

I also made the bow! Now, it wasn't that hard, but it doesn't look that great & I'm not convinced that it's cost effective. The true test will be to see if it lasts (wear & tear) as long as a boutique bow.

I think I'm going to try to make a purse with the remnants of the corduroy & this paisley fabric. Wish me luck!