My Little Sewing Alcove

Butterick Jacket and Vest Done

2011-12-06T19:37:00.000-05:00

Amongst the fabric my sister gave me, she also gave me patterns. In the box I found this jacket and thought it was really cute. Not sure how old it is or if they even print it anymore.

I decided on the red one. I added about two inches to the hemline.
This picture is up close so you can see the fabric better.

I don't plan on wearing the tan turtleneck underneath, but it was in my closet so I grabbed it for the photo. I think a bright green, yellow or pink would be pretty.

I had black lining, but no matter how I sqeezed, put the pattern pieces in different directions...just couldn't get enuf to cut out. So I found some pink that I had. Who cares? Even if I wear a different color top, no one will even know.....

I just got a new job.....so one more thing to wear!

Then I put together a quick vest....it was a "one" hour vest....but by the time I was done, it turned out to be around 3 hours. The front piece came done WAY too long and just looked silly....so after cutting and re-doing, came out with this:

I think it's cool in a "bohemian, hippie" kinda way!!

Jean Jacket M5860 done.

2011-11-21T10:51:00.000-05:00

It's complete. I'm pretty happy with the results, although the pockets look huge in this picture. The color is a dark Army green, which my camera did not pick up. I topstitched it in a light green. The buttons are from my stash and as I said before, the fabric was given to me....bonus!! If your looking for a nice fitting jacket pattern, this is the one. I didn't follow all the fitting suggestions the pattern had, I just cut out a straight size....with the exception of my short waist adjustment of 1 1/2 inch, then adding that same amount to the hemline.

Next up, another blazer for work.....that is, when I go back!

Happy Sewing!!

Sneak Peak - McCalls 5860 Jean Jacket

2011-11-18T10:41:00.000-05:00

I bought this pattern last year..I think. My sister gave me a box of fabric that she didn't want. oooo, free fabric, what's better than that? In that box was an Army green denim piece. I'm thinking, this would be perfect for that jacket pattern I have. I'm stitching through it pretty quickly.....

Wish the picture wasn't so dark. It's the lighting in my room. I should be finished with it today and will post more pictures soon. For those of you looking at this pattern, it's pretty easy!

Enjoy your weekend!

Vintage Wedding Gown

2011-11-10T23:28:00.000-05:00

is actually my Mom's, and it is gorgeous. This picture was taken February 12, 1943.

Today, it's yellowed from time and the beaded insert on the bodice is falling apart....but, it's gorgeous, I think.

There are 25 buttons down the back!

My Mom is 93 years old. Dad passed away in 1996.

For all you vintage lovers, I thought you'd enjoy this.....

McCalls - fleece jacket finished.

2011-11-08T13:17:00.001-05:00

This is what I did all weekend. Well, most of the weekend. It was quick and easy...especially working with fleece. I had a huge remnant of black and a small piece of yellow, although it looks more cream colored in the pictures I took.

The little pocket on the sleeve is for my IPOD....I tried to angle my camera to get a better shot, but it didn't work. A photographer - I am not.

This is a great pattern to put together for a gift for someone...hmmmmm....

My sister gave me a box of fabric pieces that she didn't want anymore!! So, on to my next project...thinking a blazer....jean jacket.....not sure. But, I'm loving this free time. I should be downstairs vacumming, washing the kitchen floor........um nah!

Or, maybe this:

More alterations...creating lining for an unlined jacket....

2011-11-04T16:56:00.000-04:00

A friend of mine asked me to line a blazer/jacket that she had. She wanted it to "skim" over her hips, not stick to them. Who likes a jacket that you have to constantly pull down. I know I don't. I said, sure, I'll try. I've done it for myself, but doing it for someone else causes me to be a perfectionist. But, it was much easier than I thought.

I took a tissue from a pattern that I will never use....laid it over the jacket back and poked holes around the armsyches and side seam....then cut it out from that

Then I laid it over the jacket to make sure I sized it correctly. I did cut it a tad larger just in case of error.

Just two pieces.....that's it! She didn't want the sleeves done.

I machine stitched it to the top (which had a short bodice and the back, leaving the armholes free.

She's happy and I'm happy. Super simple! I know alot of you guys would have no problem doing this, but some of you are afraid of alterations and I just want you to see how easy it is.

Dorothy

2011-10-27T19:09:00.000-04:00

from the Wizard of Oz. That's what my daughter announced she wanted to be this year. She is throwing a Halloween party tomorrow night . I am NOT a fan of making costumes...seems like such a waste of time. I'd much rather spend time sewing something you can actually wear.....I love Halloween, in fact, it's my son's birthday. He was born 10-31-1983!! And what a treat he is!

Got the pattern and fabric.

She even found red sparkly slippers at WalMart.

Finished today:

Trust me....it's just slapped together. No finished seams on the inside or special hemming... It was fun...I'm glad that I had the time to do it for her. She is going to put her hair in braids...and no, her fiance is not going to be the scarecrow....

My sewing room....project.

2011-10-22T10:32:00.000-04:00

Hiyall! Thought I'd share with you what I've been up to these past few days....amazing what some time off from work produces, besides very sore muscles from moving things I should not be moving!! The name of my blog "little sewing alcove" was from our upstairs bedroom, which had an alcove. Our upstairs is just one big bedroom with two alcoves and a walk in closet. Through the many many years we've lived here, both our kids have been up there. Inbetween one of them moving in/out, I moved downstairs to a single small room:

It was cramped, alongside a single bed...but I loved my little corner of the world. Did alot of staring out the back window instead of sewing....inspiration? ya, maybe....right.

Now both my kids (in their mid to late 20s) are both in their own homes and our "revolving door" has stopped....hehehe...So, I decided to move back upstairs into that alcove - again:

This is behind me, it's a closet that I'm going to just keep fabric in and a place where girls can try on their dresses in private (for my alterations)...

This is the other side of the room that I'm going to TRY to keep clutter free...yeah right. And yes, those are books in the corner...my other obsession...

I've already taken my machines up and will take a pic when it's set up.

But the problem with all this is.......I have a new project I want to start......

Happy Sewing!

Hobo Bag - done!

2011-10-18T19:35:00.000-04:00

AND it was so easy. At first the instructions were a little strange to me because I'm so used to the Big 4 patterns. Also, there were a few mistakes in the pattern, which thankfully, I read on the Pattern Review site before delving in. For instance, they put a picture of the snap on the handle side of the bag, not the middle. It will make sense if anybody sews it up. But, here's the inside:

I had this piece of gold paisley print hanging around for years. I thought it matched nicely. It's hard to see, but I put in a pocket on the right for a cell phone. I skipped the larger pocket on the other side.

Took it outside for a brighter picture. It's actually alot bigger than this picture shows. In fact it's big enough to throw in a magazine, lunch and wallet and use it as a tote bag for work!

Couldnt end my post without a picture of Lucy watching me sew from under the blankets...She's just too cute!

HotPatterns Hobo Style bag - my next project......

2011-10-13T16:15:00.000-04:00

That is if I chose to accept it.. The

pieces are all printed on separate sheets and I have to figure out how to tape them together.

Looks like fun, doesn't it?? :) I always was a sucker for the hippie era....

This is a brushed fabric I got at Joanne's.....I'm thinking it's an upholstery fabric because it is sturdy. Perfect for a handbag. Tomorrow is another day and will let you guys know!

Peace out.....

New Sewing...

2011-10-12T12:12:00.000-04:00

I needed a quick dress to wear to my daughter's wedding shower. This

did the trick. I wore it with a jacket over the top. Sorry the picture is sideways.

It was so very easy. As you can see in the picture below, the tie belt went through buttonholes, they weren't sewn into a seam. The front was cut in two pieces and the back is one long piece. If you want something quick to sew up, this pattern is it. It also helped get me out of my sewing funk I had going on.

Over the summer I made this top again....I have this same top in navy blue in a previous post. I believe it was a McCall's pattern.

But I'm back. I've been laid off from my job and now I'm going to do what I love....sew. Not sure what is next, maybe a purse/bag. I did get some fabric over the weekend. I'm also going to move my sewing area back in the "alcove" upstairs where I have alot more room and I'm free to just leave it and not worry about cleaning up...!! Yeah!! I'm going to enjoy this unemployment for as long as I can...been working way too many years full-time.....right now, life is good.

My next project...

2011-06-25T09:26:00.000-04:00

hopefully this weekend. I have nothing just to wear around the backyard and house and wanted something cool. Although our weather this weeked is that....cool. I got the fabric at Fabric Mart last year. Thought it was a light knit and ended up being bathing suit fabric. But, that's ok.

See & Sew Quickie...

2011-06-11T14:54:00.000-04:00

I needed something quick and easy to make for work. I picked an old See & Sew 3886 pattern I had in my stash. It's loose fitting and the sleeves are one piece. The tank top is also an old pattern I had.

I used interfacing that I bought from Pamela over at Fashion Sewing.....thought I'd give it a try....love it. I used cheap interfacing in the last jacket I made, in an older post, and it shrunk, ruining my work. I found the perfect buttons in my stash. I found a WHOLE BUNCH of buttons at a yard sale.....I have a post back in November of 2009 showing a picture. That purchase has really come in handy for different things I've made.

So, now what? Hmmmm....I'm thinkiing of running out to Joanne's and seeing what they have. I'd love a sun dress to wear around the house......It's fun to be back!!!

My daughter got engaged!!

2011-05-30T22:56:00.000-04:00

Forgot one of THE most important things that happened this year. Shannon got engaged.

So, the planning is on. February 12, 2012.

No, I am not making her wedding dress, nor the bridesmaids. I've done alot of weddings in my sewing life, but not this one!!!

I may, however, make my dress, not sure yet.

They are Buffalo Sabres fans.

I'm back!! ummmmm, i think

2011-05-29T15:41:00.000-04:00

I think because I really want to start sewing again. These last six months was a crazy ride.
I started a new job on November 15, 2010....STRESS....so much more to learn, so many clients....but things are much better now. I got it. Yeah!

Then my Mom fell and broke her foot in January. Went to a nursing home for 2 weeks...it was awful. They were so uncaring....we didn't know it was going on.....don't want to get into it. But my sister found her another place to rehab and it was much better. She is home now.

Then, my husband goes to the doctor feeling weak...they rushed him via ambulance to the hospital....where after days and days, they found he had bleeding ulcers and FOUR clogged arteries to his heart. They ended up putting in four stents...he's home healing now and doing well....Thank God.

Then, April 12, I went to the doctor feeling very weak and shaking. After some blood work, and a nuclear scan, they told me I have Grave's Disease. Just an fancy name for thyroid issues. Mine is overactive. After one month I'm feeling better. Put me on some drugs for now, if that doesn't work, they will destroy my thyroid.

So, you can see, no sewing. I come home from work exhausted.

But I'm "in the mood" again and will post some pics soon. I've missed you guys...your comments...and, of course, reading your blogs....I didn't even do that. I was in a total funk. But, with Summer here and our pool opened....I feel a new beginning...........

If any of you bloggers have Graves...I'd love to hear from you!

Leather Done

2010-11-26T09:30:00.000-05:00

Hope you all had a very relaxing Happy Thanksgiving with your family and friends. I did. Now I am enjoying my Friday by myself and "thinking" of going out shopping. Hmmmm..haven't decided yet.

But either way, I did finish my thrift store leather bargain.

I know, this picture probably doesn't look much different that the original. But, it sure fits better. I took in one inch on both sides, a half inch down the back, and took up the shoulders an inch. Oh yeah, and hemmed the sleeves an inch.

When I

did the shoulders, shhh, don't tell a tailor, but I did it in a very unorthodox way!!

Instead of taking off the sleeve and re-doing it, I just stitched it back an inch. Hey, it worked. Except for one mistake. I took it in a little too much on the one sleeve and had to carefully rip the seam some. It did show some poke holes, but it really isn't that noticeable.

The back seam looked bunchy (is that a word?), so I touched some glue down the sides to hold it down.

Here is a picture of the sleeves. You can see the old line.

So, now I have a new jacket to wear this winter. AND I hear we are going to get a Lake effect snowstorm this afternoon.

Enjoy your day sewing everyone that has the day off. I'm listening to the Beatles A to Z on 97 Rock. Oh yeah baby!!

Altering a Leather Jacket?

2010-11-21T15:59:00.000-05:00

Am I nutz??? Well, maybe....but it only cost me $6.99!!!!!! Yep. I went to our neighborhood thrift store...which I often do....and found this leather jacket for only seven bucks. It is very large on me. I was tempted to just wear it as is, but decided yesterday to take it apart:

I need to bring up the shoulders about an inch...take in the sides an inch and hem the sleeves an inch.

I started on it....ripped the lining apart so that I could get inside and look around.

I love black leather for our Buffalo winters...plus I can dress it up with multiple colored fleece scarfs and gloves...yeah!

I'll keep ya posted!

What a crazy couple of weeks.....

2010-11-13T18:06:00.000-05:00

It all started when I got laid-off from my job of 8 1/2 years. The attorney I worked for joined forces with his sister in another Town..they didn't need a secretary there, and it was way too far for me to drive anyway.

Then, I went for four days to a wedding in Virginia. It was my daughter's boyfriend's sister who got married. I ended up knowing quite a few people there from high school. Was very interesting. I posted pics of the dresses I made in an earlier post. Here is a pic of my daughter Shannon and me in our dresses. These dresses were made from the same pattern!:

When I got back I went on two job interviews. Was hired at a large firm in Downtown Buffalo, New York. I've been out of the circuit for quite awhile, working for a solo practioner, that I didn't realize the money I could make working for a large firm. It was a VERY pleasant surprise. I start my job on Monday, Nov. 15th. Very excited and a little nervous. Now I better get sewing some new clothes, huh??

Meanwhile, my cousin who lives in Iowa has been wanting to get together with me for years. Our family is dwindling and we thought we better get together sooner than later. I haven't seen him in 25 years and we really missed each other. He sent me a round-trip ticket to Las Vegas!!! All expenses paid by him. Boy, I truly owe him. We had so much fun. Spent two wonderful, quiet, exciting, fun days. Cried and laughed over all our past.....

Here is Dan and me.

This was my favorite exhibit, the Mirage had a place called The Secret Garden. They had gorgeous Lions and these sweet dolphins.

Well, now back to reality....job monday....

What a month.....sewing tons, wedding, and no job.

2010-10-26T18:25:00.000-04:00

Been busy making two dresses for a wedding, one for my daughter and one for myself. We had a "roadtrip" to Leesburg Virginia this past weekend for the celebration. My daughter's boyfriend's sister got married. It was a great weekend, I really enjoyed myself.

I took pictures of the two, but my camera sucks. Meanwhile my husband purchased a new one and it is so much better....I'm looking forward to taking more detailed pics of my sewing.

I used the front pattern piece

to create the back too. Then she wanted red highlights, so we glued on these rhinestones.

I don't have a picture of the

full dress....now, it's at her house and I can't take pictures with my new camera.

For my dress, I used the exact same pattern, but switched bodices to the sleeve version.

I added a trim

of pretty sparkly rhinestones. They cost more than the fabric!

This is a back view. I'm really happy with the results and love this pattern.

THEN, I got laid off from my job of 8 1/2 years. Wow. My boss is moving his practice to a small lawfirm with his sister to a town that is too far for me to drive. I am happy, sad, scared, excited all in one emotion. Truly a strange feeling. I've been working for 34 years, with one year off for each of my children, part-time or full-time depending on my situation.

I do have two interviews this week. I'm not nervous, i'll get a job soon, right?

Or maybe I could just stay home and sew!.

Wish me luck!

My Finished Kwik Sew Jacket

2010-10-05T10:22:00.000-04:00

Here it is. I love this pattern...so quick and easy to put together. I'm really disappointed in my button placement though. What was I thinking? I should have either shortened them up or added one. My camera isn't that great...can't see the buttons, but they are from my old button stash. Pretty gold.

This is the pocket on the side front. Nice deep pockets to throw in a set a keys and a cell phone and deep enough to add a credit card!!

Now on to more alterations I got yesterday after work and my daughter's dress.

Thank you all for your nice comments. I too have been doing alot of reading but no posting. One nice thing about blogging is that it keeps me sewing!! AND best of all, I finish my projects!!

Sewing like crazy...no pictures.

2010-10-04T16:15:00.000-04:00

I finished my purple fall jacket yesterday. Took all sorts of pictures, even had my husband take a picture of me wearing it!!

My camera didn't have the memory card in it. :(

It took the pictures, but there is no way to get them off the camera and onto my computer. (It's old).

Along with finishing the coat, I cut out my daughter's dress in the good fabric and she came over to try it on. It's huge!! I'm not sure what I did wrong...the muslin came out good. I think I just added too much at the bottom. Either way, it is fixable.

Besides that I have been doing alot of alterations. Which is good, I need the extra money. Saving up for a weekend trip to Virginia at the end of the month. Family wedding. It will be in Leesburg....anybody know of some fabric shops around there?? I was looking at the SR Harris Fabric Store in Minnesota...all the fabrics....maybe we could make a roadtrip out of that next summer!! But I would have to take a paperbag....because I would have anxiety issues with all those choices...yikes.

well....tonight pictures of my jacket.....

Been busy in my sewing room....

2010-09-20T00:13:00.000-04:00

but nothing to really show for it.....at least completed.

I started the dress for my daughter.

Simplicity 3503

Found some old knit fabric I had stashed away, for a muslin.

She is busty, so I knew I couldn't go straight with the pattern piece. I was going to have to make some adjustments. So, here I go.......

I added 3" to the bottom of the front and back bodice.

When she buys tops in stores the bodice falls short on her. If she buys bigger clothes, they are too big everywhere else.

Because she wanted more gathers at the bottom, I slashed the front piece an inch or so.

Then I traced that piece onto paper.

She wants the back to look just like the front, with a "V". The pattern called for a full back. So I took that same pattern piece and cut it straighter on the bottom, as you can see in the first pic.

Then I sewed it up to have her try it on:

It looks funny "smooshed" on the table...but I'm sure glad I made up my own pattern, because so far it fits her well. Now I have to buy the fabric. The wedding is next month.

I got a couple alteration jobs this week. Two pairs of pants to hem, a lined dress to hem and an American Flag to repair a rip on one of the stripes!!

With this skirt, this woman asked me to take out all the pleats and make it flat front. Pleats are not always flattering. Haven't started that yet. I'll post pics when I'm done.

Yet Another simplicity 2447 Done

2010-09-08T11:50:00.000-04:00

I made another one. Can't help it. Love the way it fits! I needed something quick to put together for work. I need clothes!!

I know I won't be able to wear it much longer, with Fall coming.

My next project is going to be a Fall Jacket. Can't wait to start it. I found a gorgeous purple faux suede fabric at Joannes in the Red Tag sale they had Labor Day weekend. $5.00 a yard!

Then I HAVE to start my daughter's dress for a wedding she is going to at the end of October. Actually, I should probably do that one first.

She picked out the blue one. Top Right.

She wants the back to look just like the front. With a "V". Right now the pattern is halter, with, I believe, a button closure, not sure. She doesn't want that much of her back showing. Her plan is to have it made in a slinky black fabric with red beads around the "V". I told her, all I can to is try.

Happy Sewing.

What a nice surpise...

2010-09-03T12:43:00.000-04:00

Came home from work yesterday to a pretty in pink package with a gift from http://www.summersetsewing.blogspot.com/ (toocutedobs)....
When I opened up my prize, it really brightened up a somewhat stressful day I had at work.

Aren't they just so adorable!! Right now they are on my shelf over my sewing machine. When I look at them, they make me smile.

THANKS Kathy (who is toocutedobs)....that was so sweet of you to pick me!!!

Don't make this mistake....

2010-09-02T09:24:00.002-04:00

I have been sewing for over 40 years...you would think I would know better.

Remember this jacket? It is actually a pretty blue color, which I posted in one of my previous posts. My camera is very moody, what can I say.

I washed it, hung it up and alas.. my interfacing shrunk!!! I'm not sure I've ever preshrunk interfacing before...well, I have definitely learned my lesson. I can easily fix it..just take off the buttons, tear off the interfacing and re-do it. Someday.

I have been eyeing Pam's interfacing over at

http://www.sewexciting.blogspot.com/ for quite some time. After my faux pas, I decided to order some. I ordered it Sunday afternoon and received it Wednesday.

(We don't live far from each other) The interfacing I ordered is for shirts I plan on making my husband some day. The instructions say it doesn't need preshrinking. It's gorgeous interfacing and I can't wait to try it!!!! Thanks Pam!

I'm almost done with another McCalls blouse...I'll post pictures later in the week. It's a pretty purple from my stash. I better hurry up because it's short sleeved.

Happy Sewing!

2010-08-26T12:33:00.000-04:00

Dress is done man! But I still have the jacket to do. I'm sure y'all are tired of looking at it.

It came out great....didn't like the handsewing part, but ya do what ya gotta do. I had to handsew the facing down (which was actually the "collar and shoulder" part of the dress.

The inside? not so proud of. If it was for myself, I wouldn't care. Instead of handsewing the lining to the zipper like I was going to do....I did this:

I attached the lining to the zip along with the main fabric.

I loved the invisible zipper....and will definitely always do these.

My camera was not being cooperative today, blurry.
Not sure what I'm going to work on next. I would like to make a blouse for work. My daughter is going to a wedding October 23rd and asked me to make her a dress. So we are going out tonight fabric and pattern shopping. She is going to be hard to fit because she is very large busted, but I'm going to do my best!!

Happy Sewing!

2010-08-23T11:41:00.000-04:00

OHBOY, I've been so slow in getting this "New Look" dress finished. I'm just so unsure of myself, sewing for other people. I have NO problems ripping out a brand new dress that someone needs altering tho!! In fact, that's what I've been up to all last week.

I altered a bridesmaid's dress from a 14 down to a 10. Oh yeah, that was tons of fun. But I did it. You can only imagine my fear when she came over to try it on. Gratefully, it fit and she was happy! Then someone called me with six pairs of shorts and a dress. Those, I completed this morning.

Now the dress for my attorney friend....

I did the invisible zip:

I couldn't find my plastic foot for this, so I just did it without. One trick is to iron the plastic teeth flat. Then get as close to them as possible with your zipper attachment, which I did. It came out great!

Then I pinned the lining to the zip:

Well, I HATE to hand sew. I need to learn some good techniques, because my handsewing comes apart sometimes, like hems. This pattern only called for lining on the top, but I added it to the skirt for looks and stability. But, back to my handsewing. After I took this picture I decided to attach the lining to the zipper and bottom center back seam with my machine. Sorry, I don't have a picture of that. It certainly doesn't look at professional, but I know it will hold for a long time.

So, basically I'm done with the dress. Now, I need to start the jacket. That is after a new alterations I have coming in this week...ugh. I'm not complaining, I like the extra money.

McCalls 6077

2010-08-09T10:05:00.000-04:00

After sewing all day Saturday on that dress, I needed to make up something really quick. Instant Gratification. I'm sure you all understand. I got this pattern to make up some easy tanks for under my blazers for work.

I got this wonderful soft Vera Wang knit at FabricMart a couple months ago ($1.99 a yard...gotta luv a bargain!) Boy, I wish I would have bought more colors....it's a gorgeous fabric. This picture is bad, but you get the idea.

The collar looks so much thinner on the pattern envelope than the actual collar when finished. It's frustrating when the envelope shows slight differences. I'll make up some more and maybe even embellish them. Quick and easy pattern.

Progress on New Look 6799

2010-08-07T22:15:00.000-04:00

I'm making progress on my co-worker's dress...slowly.

It's a nice pattern, but I'm making a few changes. The bodice is lined....

Before adding the collar, the armhole is stitched to the lining.It's a very nice finish when complete.

The band around the waist called for lining fabric to be used on the inside of the dress. I choose to use the main fabric instead. For some reason, the pattern didn't call for inferfacing this piece. I assume it's because the waistband is cut on the bias. Not Sure. But I didn't do it. But using the main fabric added more stability to the dress.

Also, the pattern didn't call for lining the skirt. I choose to do it. I think it will have a more professional appearance.

So, I just added it to the skirt. Stitched it to the waistband and and so far, this is what I have.

Obviously it needs to be pressed.

Because the pattern didn't call for a lining, I'm not quite sure how I'm going to finish the back yet. Normally the lining is handsewn to the zipper, but the instructions just have the zipper put in after the lining is sewn to the main fabric. At this point, I'm going to bring it into work on Monday and have her try it on. Then I will put the zipper in. I'm thinking I will just sew the lining to the main fabric down the back. If that makes sense. That way I won't have to worry about the lining flapping at the back slit. I will take a pic when I get that far.

New Look Pattern for a co-worker...

2010-07-30T10:43:00.000-04:00

I used to make custom clothing, primarily bridesmaid dresses, years ago. Since then I've learned alot more about fitting. I used to just "jump" into a pattern and cut it out, never making a muslin. Luckily, it worked out for me. Must have been a guardian angel!!!

These past ten years I've learned more about fitting and hopefully I will put it to use with this pattern.

She wants the style of the black dress, with matching jacket.

SO, here I go....Lucky for me, she is almost the exact measurements as my "Ellie".

I have to take it in a little more at the top and I'm good to go.

I'm also going to put on an invisible zipper. It's also been years since I've done that, but if my memory is right, it wasn't difficult. I just have to locate the foot.

Hopefully, I will cut out the fabric this weekend and get started. The pattern is very simple to make. Unlined jacket. The pattern called only for lining the top. But, I think it will be nicer to line the skirt too.

Learning through alterations

2010-07-23T10:49:00.000-04:00

I have been doing alterations for many years. It started out back in the early 90s, I was working for a large lawfirm in downton Buffalo. One girl heard that I sewed and it just went from there. I didn't mind because the extra money was very helpful when my kids were just starting school.

But, my point - I've learned alot of pointers in the construction of garments, while ripping out seams.

But this one, I've never seen before:

The manufacturer put pieces of lining fabric on the tips of each dart. I don't understand why, does anyone else?

The obvious is probably strengthening the ends, but does it really?

Another thing this manufacturer did was put a 1" long piece of interfacing along the length of every seam. I may consider that when I sew flimsy fabric.

I've always wanted to take an advanced sewing class, but they just don't offer them around here.

Butterick 3405 Newborn Outfit

2010-07-22T10:20:00.000-04:00

Yeah, I'm done. Hopefully I can wrap it up tonight and bring it into work tomorrow. It is for one of the attorneys I work with. His wife is having her first baby.

It hard to see, but I found buttons in my stash that match the flowers in the dress..same shapes. And I also put them on the back too.

This was a very easy pattern, but I revised it a little. The armholes had facings. Who needs facings flopping around on a little baby? So, I cut them to 1/2" wide and stitched them down. Also the pattern called for the neck facing to be sewn on - right sides together, then turned under 1/4" and stitched down from the inside. The bobbin thread showed on the outside and was a little uneven, so I did it reversed, stitching it down - straight - on the outside. Does that make sense? Hope so.

Ok, now what next?

Oh yeah, the female attorney I worked with asked me to make new a dress and jacket. I will start posting pics on my progress soon....wish me luck!

Vacation Time and some sewing...

2010-07-13T07:59:00.000-04:00

I'm on vacation...yea! It's so nice to sit in the morning with my cup of coffee and just relax and not have to hurry up to rush out the door. We are just doing day trips....restaurants....poolside....nothing much...but that was the plan.

Of course, I'm getting called to do more alterations than usual this month, on top of sewing projects of my own. (psst...I think my husband is jeolous of my sewing machines)...

My neighbor is losing alot of weight (so far over 100 lbs!! God Bless her)...I have two pairs of pants, two skirts and t-shirts...All to be taken in down the sides and hemmed.

Then another customer from 7 years ago called me for a "rush" job of two skirts and two tops to be hemmed. I'm almost done with them.

That's OK, I can sure use the money.

As for my sewing projects? One of the attorney's that I work for...his wife is having a baby due any day; I wanted to make up something other than just a boring layette outfit. I picked this pattern and fabric: Yes, she is having a girl (at least I hope so! hehe)

Wish my camera took a brighter pic...tried to enhance it..ah, picture taking isn't my thing.

Isn't it cute though? I hope she gets a chance to wear it. I did cut out the Newborn size and while sewing it, I'm making the seams larger than normal, to make it a tad smaller.

Well, better git off of this puter and finish those alterations before it gets too hot here.

Some sewing...Some fun...

2010-07-07T10:29:00.000-04:00

I've been trying to do some sewing..really....but our central a/c broke because someone (me) put the screen door through the side of the unit. Yep, I did! I was trying to put it back on track and dropped it.....Freon hissing out into the night......no....

My sewing room is hot...it's going up to 95 yet again today.....but I managed to get some alterations done.

Thank God we put a pool in the back yard way way back in 1980....

View of my yard through my sewing room window...I do tend to gaze out the window too much instead of what I'm supposed to be doing..

As for my alterations.....one of my clients had a blazer with vented sleeves. My least favorite alteration....but after looking at my alterations book by Mary Roehr (which I don't have a picture of)....she suggested doing it by hand. Well, I really dislike hand sewing and avoid it as much as I can. But, she was right....it is easier..

I did turn the sleeve inside out though the lining seam and used the machine to do the hem up to the vented part.

These are the two blouses I completed in the Spring that I mentioned in a previous post.

This past weekend was the Fourth of July, of course!! My absolute favorite holiday. Just a day for relaxing and seeing the family.

My daughter brought her new puppy, Madison, over for a little swim. She is going to be a big girl! German Shepherd. She is such a calm sweet dog....I guess she is my Grandpuppy huh?

My son took us out for a boat ride on beautiful Niagara River.

He bought a boat last Thanksgiving and worked on it all winter.

it's alot of fun for him....boys and their toys....usually he's working on cars.

Guess this post is long enough.....enjoy your July!!

McCalls 5893 Dress done for my Mom's 92nd birthday...

2010-06-19T18:59:00.000-04:00

I have been wanting to make a dress for a long time now. It's in the high 80s here these days, so I purchased M5893 to make one up quickly. Which I did! Great pattern.

Here is a closeup of the knit fabric I bought at JoAnns. The black knit I had in my stash.

It's hard fitting me for a dress, so I thought this one would work for me. I actually made it way to big and had to take it in about three inches down the sides. I don't think I compensated for the fact that it was a stretchy knit. I'm so used to working with woven fabrics.

Here is my Mom, in the picture below. She still lives at home alone and tries to do everything herself...but she just can't walk much anymore, even with a walker.

That's the birthday cake, kind of a blurry shot.

My daughter acting goofy. She just had her 25th birthday this week also.

My husband and me at Mom's house.

All in all we had a wonderful day, heat and all. After the picture around the pool, I went in the house, put my suit on and jumped in.....nice.

Blogging update...

2010-06-14T11:01:00.000-04:00

I have been sewing...in fact I finished a black blouse and a pretty pink blouse...same pattern and plenty of alterations from people answering my Ad!! yeah!!. I still have two bridesmaids dresses to alter.

I'm so glad that I invested $35.00 in a rolled hem foot for my Viking. At first I was like "$35.00 dollars, are you kidding me right now?" being my cheap self.....but, what a great investment. I've used it twice in one year....and now three more times this month. It makes a gorgeous hem, that is, after I played with it and tested it on several scraps of fabric. Supposedly my White Serger has a rolled hem option....but ICK.....never looked nice.

I do have a little problem with one of the dresses. The cup size has to be taken in. I can't take in the side seams, I have to take in the two seams directly over each bust point. Does that make sense? I'm so afraid of making the boobs look pointy. This alteration shouldn't be difficult, but for some reason it scares me. (Same with alterations around shoulders...not good with them).

Just letting my blog friends now that Yes, I'm still alive.....even though I caught a wicked cold and I'm on DAY SIX of it!!

During my days in bed sick, I've kept up with all my blogs and have enjoyed the inspiration as usual!

Happy Sewing....

Vintage sewing.

2010-05-21T12:36:00.000-04:00

This morning before getting ready for work I started pulling out all my vintage patterns. I posted some of them in my Etsy shop a while back, and some I left for myself. I love these old patterns....the pictures......the PRICES....just the look of them...ya know? I have quite a collection from Estate sales and Craigslist!

But anyway, I want to make something for my other Etsy shop to sell. I know about the copyright problem, and would make them different from the pattern itself....perhaps trace and create an entirely different piece...but just to get ideas, here is what I pulled out:

Now, I'm not into the coats, but I do like the collar idea...my little Miniature Pinscher loves to pull when we go for a walk. I mean, she's six years old and is still spunky. Anyway, I would make this collar cover...maybe out of fleece, decorate it a little....maybe embroider a name on it??? What say you?

And these:

Aren't they just too cute??

Oh, then for myself, I just love this dress, but I would have to alter the pattern to make it bigger.

I just adore the cut-out look on the top. It would even make a cute top...hmmmm.....

And this one would make a great dress for lounging in the backyard this summer...a thin cotton fabric maybe? I love the ties on the straps.

So as you can see, my brain is in overdrive today....

Re-fashioned T-Shirt

2010-05-16T16:38:00.000-04:00

While I was at Walgreen's last weekend, they were selling t-shirts for $2.50 each. For all you people that live in the States, I'm sure you know what Walgreens is, especially the East Coast. For all you that don't, it's a large pharmacy, that sells everything imaginable, with a small pharmaceutical counter in the back. Pharmacy? yeah. I purchased this XXL t-shirt.

Cut off the sleeves and placed pattern piece on top:

Then placed the pieces on the body of the shirt, with Minnie's help, of course. You can see from the pattern piece where I have altered my TNT (Simplicity 4076)....oh yeah, yet another one!! I bring up the waistline almost 2", so I have to add that much on the bottom, plus I added a few more because I wanted it longer still.

I placed the pattern right at the bottom so that I could utilize the nice doubled stitched hem.

Sewed it up and now I have a t-shirt that looks much nicer. Me and round necklines are not a good match.

Will I do it again? Probably not, just wanted to know if I could. I've seen so many other blogs where people did such interesting things.

Two Simplicity's Done...

2010-05-11T10:48:00.000-04:00

Another TNT from Simplicity 4076. In my fabric scrap stash that I got a few weekends ago, I found this piece of white jersey knit. Just something I can throw on when I run out the door....or even wear to work under a blazer.

This blouse was made from Simplicity 3789. It's a Khaliah Ali Pattern. I just realized while posting this and looking at my older posts, that I have a few of her patterns. I have made this one up three times for myself, and twice for a neighbor across the street from me. I guess I like the fit!! Ya think?? This pattern would be great for a beginner...very easy to follow. It has princess seams with cup size variations...I got this fabric from Fabric Mart last year. It is a soft silky material. It's hard to see in this picture, but it's a very pretty periwinkle color.

My new handbag....

2010-04-27T09:56:00.000-04:00

Simplicity 0579. I found enough scraps in my new fabric stash to make this bag Sunday. (now I have to make more turquoise and brown outfits).....

Shot of the inside.

The pattern didn't call for a zippered pocket, so I added one. I need it to throw in my cell phone, car keys...whatever, ya know??

I just put a small 7" zipper between the top facing and bottom lining, then added a patch of fabric behind it. This bag was so much fun to make....now on to finding more scraps....
I think the bag measures around 15" wide x 10", something like that (alot of help that is, huh?)

Fabric pieces and scraps...

2010-04-25T12:30:00.000-04:00

I did it again. Shopping Craiglist. This woman is a quilter and was getting rid of alot of fabric scraps...I just couldn't resist. I piled it up on my kitchen counter, must to my husband's dismay....hehehe.

There were a couple knit pieces that I can use for t-shirts but alot of it was scraps, some big, some small.

So, I dug out this pattern I purchased a couple months ago and decided to make a handbag! I used to make handbags years ago and thought I should try again....there are so many pretty pieces to put together:

Minnie, my cat is sitting on them.

Nothing new there!!

I know, I'm not the best photographer, but I'm making the bottom one in turquoise prints and dark brown.

I started it this morning and hopefully with have it done by tonight.....ya right.

Pin Catcher

2010-04-21T10:59:00.000-04:00

I love this little thing....It reminds me of a refrigerator magnet...just stick it on a table or on your machine...keeps my pins from falling on the floor...nothing worse than stepping on an upright pin. I got mine at Joanne Fabrics...but I also got one in the Clothide's (sp?) catalog years ago...not sure if they are around anymore.

I just got a ton of alterations to do...so I will be busy hemming and mending... :)
Happy sewing!

Another Simplicity 2447 - done

2010-04-19T10:03:00.000-04:00

well, almost done...I need to put on the buttons. Still deciding on yellow or black...my husband says "yellow."

I took this picture this morning while the sun was shining (yes, shining!!) and the blinds reflected on the bottom half of the blouse. I love this pattern...I didn't even have to try it on as I sewed....my favorite way to go!

Fabric Mart Purchase BARGAINS

2010-04-16T12:14:00.000-04:00

WOW, I just got great bargains online today!
I just had to share!!

This is a Cotton Spandex Micro Stripe fabric, charcoal in color. I'm going to attempt making a pair of pants out of it. I've never had good luck with fitting myself, but at $1.99 a yard!!!!! I'm trying it. If it doesn't work, I'm only out $4.00 bucks.
This little pic doesn't show much....

This Fabric is Poly Blend Plaid Twill Suiting 57" Wide. It was only $1.00 a yard!!! I had to buy it!! Had to!! I thought it would make a nice blazer for the Fall.

I love bargains.

Hopefully I can post pics of my new blouse I finished this morning. Since our trip our camera is giving us problems....grrrr...

Back from a vacation....

2010-04-10T22:16:00.003-04:00

Well, we are back. We left for Myrtle Beach the day after Easter on DirectAir, which took us out of Niagara Falls non-stop to Myrtle Beach....only way to go!!! My son and his girlfriend drove down and picked us up from the airport...How cool is that??!!
View from our balcony:

Our weather was gorgeous!! absolutely gorgeous!! It was a much needed restful vacation for all of us.

My husband walking on the beach....

Me walking on the beach...

You people have to understand....we are from Buffalo and we are now sitting in 35 degree temps....

My boss let us use his Condo for the week and it was a much needed vaca!!

So, now on to sewing.....my next project will be the black and yellow print, which is all cut out and ready to go......

I almost forgot my miniature pinscher Lucy....she absolutely went NUTZ when we got home...I think she thought we were gone forever....never....My daughter watched her at her home and she probably thought we were never coming back.

Kwik Sew UFO - done

2010-03-29T15:22:00.001-04:00

I made this jacket years ago....not even sure what year it was. Never finished it....I don't remember why...I'm too much of a perfectionist I guess..... But I was going through my stash yesterday, saw it, tried it on again.....finished it. Still not sure if I'll ever wear it. It's first Kwik Sew pattern I've ever made and I loved the white heavy paper pattern instructions.

Hancock Fabrics used to be in my town years ago and I miss them terribly. ;( The sales clerk at the time told me the taxes were too high in New York to keep them open. Gee, what a surprise.

I bought this jean fabric that has a green tint inside..This pic doesn't do it justice. It really is quite pretty. I just cut out the facings using the inside of the fabric as the main color.
I do need to work on my photo skills. I found green buttons in my humongous button stash and finished it off Sunday.

Both these pics were taken this morning, but each room shows the jacket differently. But in this pic you can see the large set in pocket, just off the side seam.

Simplicity 2447 - done.

2010-03-18T16:24:00.000-04:00

.......just in time for St. Patrick's Day yesterday. Here I am ...

I loved this pattern. The directions were great and very easy. The only thing I did was raise the waist 1 ½” as usual and make the sleeve short. This fabric was a little on the heavier side. Not sure of the content because it was a remnant, but it has stretch to it, which certainly helped with the fitting.

This picture shows the detailing of the front. I like the way the front piece is separated. The next blouse I make I will leave that part alone and put a collar on it, so that it looks different.

I am definitely making it again.

Simplicity 4014 - done

2010-03-01T18:23:00.001-05:00

Simplicity Jacket 4014 is done. What an easy breezy pattern this was...I did make some changes though. I decided after trying it on to make the sleeves 3/4...this way I can wear it all Spring through Summer, that is if this weather ever changes...Also, I made the collar a little smaller, by cutting off about 1 inch.

I took off these buttons from a sweater that had fallen apart. They were a perfect match!

I'm not sure what those white lines are on the collar, must just be my camera. Now, I'm deciding on whether or not to topstitch the collar or not....What Say You?

Two right sleeves......

2010-02-24T15:06:00.000-05:00

What is going on with me? old age? too much going on in my life with job stresses, family....I don't know. I am making that jacket out of the blue fabric in the picture from my earlier post. Easy, breezy.....going together beautifully and NO alterations to the pattern, except for taking up 1 1/2" from my back to waist measurement.

Well, I cut out the sleeves, put the dot marking at the top of each one, sewed the seams together, serged it off and realized I had two right sleeves. I'm just going to rip out the seam of the one and reverse it, but why am I doing this?

Does anyone else have these little frustrating lapses in sewing?

Preview of my Spring sewing...

2010-02-17T10:03:00.000-05:00

A couple weeks ago Joanne Fabrics was having a 50% off sale on all their Red Tag fabrics. I picked up four cuts. The purple print and the black/yellow print is a very soft silky fabric. I have no clue what the contents are. The green and the blue fabric is also silky, but a medium suit weight. I think I spent $20 bucks on everything.

I'm making the jacket shown on this pattern (Simplicity 4014) with the blue fabric, which has already been cut out....I also picked up these two patterns for 99 cents each.

Not sure yet, but thinking the purple fabric for this pattern (Simplicity 2447). I love the seams that go directly from the shoulder to the bottom, it makes altering a breeze!!! I like the shorter version, with the cap sleeves.

So, between ripping down all the wallpaper in my kitchen, and painting the ceiling and walls, I'm going to be a busy gal.

These past two weeks at work we've been preparing for trial, which was yesterday. So, now that stress is off my shoulders too!! Not that I take work home with me, I just tend to collapse on the couch after a long day....no sewing then!!

Blazer - done

2010-02-11T18:53:00.000-05:00

I love this pattern. There weren't alot of alterations to do on it, just my usual neck to waist adjustment. I was a little leary of doing the vented sleeve because I have never done one before, but the pattern was very easy to follow. I never cropped this picture or made any enhancements to it, so I'm not sure how it's going to look on my blog. BUT here it is!!

Simplicity 2446 - Progress

2010-02-05T11:25:00.000-05:00

I got this pattern at Joanne Fabrics when they were having their .99 cent sale. I have finishing touches to make on it and I will post a pic when done. I really like the fit of this blazer. The pattern has alot of great tips that they post under their "Amazing Fit" tips printed throughout the pattern. Some of the tips I already knew, but it would be a great learning pattern for a beginner sewer. It guides you through putting in a lining completely sewn shut.

As for the wool, I used some leftover wool that I had from a jacket project last year, where a client had me make him three wool jacket hoodies (no lining) for himself and two sons. So, lucky me, he bought more than he needed. Then I used a black velveteen that I had in my stash for the upper collar.

I didn't worry about matching up the seams to the check pattern because it is so small.

I have two pieces. The blazer and the lining. This morning before work I put the two together. I love this pattern with how easy it was to attach the lining completely, just pulling it through a small opening at the bottom. Next are the buttons and I'm done! Hopefully I will get a chance this weekend to finish it. Oh yeah, another thing with this pattern is that it has vented sleeves and they were super easy to do. I plan on putting three small buttons on the sleeve.

I guess all in all, this pattern is really nice to work with. Oh yeah, another wonderful feature for fitting is that the front piece and side front piece has a seam that starts in the middle of the shoulder and down to the bottom. So, it helps with fitting through the shoulders, you don't have to fool around with the armsyche.

My Vintage dress form

2010-01-25T14:57:00.000-05:00

A few people have emailed me about my dress form Ellie....here is my original post about her from a year ago...

This dressform was actually molded to my mom's body, sometime in the 1950s. I call her "ellie"...not sure why, just a little name that stuck. I actually try to use it for myself, but alas, my butt is much bigger...It does come in handy for just pinning and seeing how something looks. I believe it was done at a Singer Sewing Store, ya know, back in the day when there were alot of fabric stores that ONLY sold fabric? Oh my, what a concept. I just love vintage stuff.........

Coat is done.

2010-01-21T10:08:00.000-05:00

It's done. Actually, I've been wearing it for almost two weeks now. I wish the picture was better because you can't see the welt pockets very well. It ended up being a fairly easy pattern. I did have a little bit of trouble with the front facing and hem. It kept "dipping up" at the bottom, so I made the facing 1/2" shorter and that seemed to do the trick. Also, if I had to do it again, I would have interfaced the front completely. It tends to stretch a bit. It looks nice on "ellie", my dressform, but I feel it puts 20 pounds on me, which I definitely don't need. It's probably the doubled breasted look, I don't know. But, it's done!

Why do we sew?

2010-01-20T10:15:00.000-05:00

I was thinking this morning as I was having my cuppa coffee before work....thinking, .as I always do, sometimes too much...ha. I read so many great blogs....You people have such beautiful sewing skills. Most of the blogs, I've noticed are people trying to hone their sewing skills, trying to become better at their skill, always trying more complex garments and making their TNT's (tried and true). I've seen some amazing talent and learned a few pointers from you. Plus, the inspiration I get is the best.

Me? I started sewing at an early age. Mostly, because sewing clothes was so much more affordable than buying ready made. I am and probably always will be, an extremely frugal sewer. It is hard for me to pay $50 for a jacket when I can make it for a fraction of that cost. In the 60s and 70s I made so many outfits. I wish I had pictures of them all; more so, I wish I had those old patterns. I ended up giving them away to my Mother's friend who helped people learn to sew. I don't regret that at all...but, I sure wish I could just see them again! I wish I would have taken more pics of the blouses and dresses that I made.

My first office job was in 1971 (I think I'm dating myself. lol). I made most of my dresses because I couldn't afford clothes. Then in the 80s I worked for a large lawfirm. The girls knew I had a sewing machine and I started altering clothes and making bridesmaids dresses, whatever was needed. The extra income was nice. Plus, I had my kids then and made alot of outfits for my daughter.

Now, I work for three attorneys and it's only me in the office. So, the alterations business slowed down to just a trickle of people in my neighborhood. But, that's OK! I don't miss it.

So, to answer my own question, in the early days I sewed because I couldn't afford many clothes and now, I sew just for the fun of it. Well, I'm rambling and I have to get to work. Happy Sewing! Peace!

My new "baby"

2010-01-06T11:01:00.000-05:00

Isn't she just too sweet? I absolutely love her. It is an HP Laptop.. My husband got it for me for Christmas. You can see my old Dell Laptop behind her. It is being held up by a bedrest...lol... The screen broke off of the bottom part and needs to be fixed. We will probably fix it and maybe sell it, not sure yet.

Now I can put her right next to my sewing machine, or walk it into the living room, or stay awake too late reading blogs (which has already happened) **yawn** I think she weighs under a pound, not sure exactly.

It did, I admit, take some getting used too. The websites are a little more condensed....but I love it.

Merry Christmas to All.

2009-12-22T12:46:00.000-05:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!

Thank you for reading my blog this past year. It's

been alot of fun, posting, reading other's comments

and just getting alot of inspiration from you

talented ladies!!

May God Bless everyone this coming year with

health and happiness.

From my family to yours.....

now, if it would only snow!!

Coat In Progress

2009-12-11T16:39:00.001-05:00

I've been working on my coat a little bit every morning before work....I had some trouble figuring out attaching the back facing to the front facing...don't know why, it just didn't "click"....I put it down for the day and went back to it. Then it worked. Also, I bought the wrong interfacing. It's non fusible and very "crinkly" sounding. At first I thought "gee, non fusible would be better on wool, wouldn't it?" No, hated it. So, as you can see, I cut it out of the facing pieces....I didn't want to rip apart all the work, especially since I trimmed the seams already. I ironed on new lighter interfacing this morning...it's much softer.

Of course, while I had my back turned, ironing, my Mickey decided he was gonna sleep in front of me. Get, get, off....

Here is my coat half done, without the facing or lining yet. You can "kinda" see the welt pockets on it. It's slow going, only because I'm slow. The pattern is really nice. I had to fix the shoulders by about an inch..that's becoming a typical adjustment for me, along with my usual 1 1/2" adjustment at the waist, highering it (is that a word?) I read a review on Pattern Review about this pattern and the girl said she thought the pockets were too low. Raising the waist like I did, I didn't think it would happen to me. Well, it did, they are a little low....but that's ok...

I hope to get some more done this weekend, along with cookies and a sewing project a girl at work asked me to do. More on that one when I get the fabric....

Buttons, Buttons

2009-11-28T16:18:00.000-05:00

My husband and I took a little "road trip" today to get some buttons!! Man, was there alot of them. Love em....! In the box she had I found six buttons that I can use on my winter coat. There is also alot of pretty ones that I can use for blouses next summer...it was definitely worth the trip

Roman Shades and curtains

2009-11-24T15:03:00.000-05:00

My daughter asked me to make roman shades...ugh...how do you do that? I read articles on-line, got some books at the library...everyone had a different idea. I ended up using pre-made tape with the rings already sewn into it. I sewed the strips down both sides of the shade, as you can see in the picture. I cheated ALOT....the books said to staple gun the fabric to a batten, which had the ring-style screws attached to both ends. Well, we put the ring screws right into the ceiling nixing the idea of a batten altogether, then velcroed the fabric to the ceiling also. It was easier than finding a batten at the store. Make sense? Not sure I will ever do this again.....
It's hard to tell from this picture, but the valance is blue with a blue and white stripe (it looks cream colored, but it's white)...sewn to the bottom.

This picture is the window opposite of the bay window. I took the stripe and made ribbons out of it which we tied at the bottom. This was all my daughter's ideas....

It looks pretty with the Lighthouse theme she has going on....

lots of sewing ahead....

2009-11-18T10:19:00.001-05:00

My wool came in today!! My nice UPS man brought it to my desk at work. I love getting prizes……I have all my things delivered to work because I’m never home…It is prettier than I expected! My question to you all is…..Do I treat it? Wash it? Dry Clean it? or just cut it as is?? I’ve decided on this pattern….it’s fairly uncomplicated….

BUT, before I get to my coat project I have lots of alterations to do….all hems.

I did finally get around to taking a pic of my corduroy jacket I finished last month. This was the easiest pattern I’ve done in a long time….no alterations except the shoulders, I cut into the shoulder about 1”…AND the alteration I make on everything I wear....my neck to waist measurement, I take it up about 1 1/2"..
but if you are looking for a quick, fitted jacket without lining, this is the one. I plan on making more of these…great jackets to wear to work.

Gotta git off here......

Wool Coat Fabric from Fabric.com

2009-11-13T11:11:00.000-05:00

Well, I did it!!!! I ordered wool from Fabric.com. I looked here in Buffalo for wool and had no luck. It's called Russian Tweed...it's mostly black. Of course, I had to call customer service and find out it if truly is heavy enough for our winters. She confirmed that it would be. I'm so excited about getting my package! It took me more than two weeks to make this decision, you have to understand, I'm AWFUL at making decisions....
I'm not worried about making a winter coat, I'm just not used to spending alot on fabric. I'm a very frugal sewer. If I can purchase something in the store cheaper or equivalent, I do it. Are you guys that way? Or do you like sewing all your clothes.

Wouldn't it be nice to have time to do that?

I decided on Simplicity 3672 which is pictured below in another post. I'm going to make the short version.

This weekend Im going to take pics of a corduroy jacket I finished, plus my neighbor brought me over SEVEN pairs of pants with lining to hem....so I will be a busy bee.

And, I do want to dig into that jacket I cut out Sunday night.....still undecided on the sleeve.

Happy Sewing....

mistakes...HATE EM....

2009-11-08T22:17:00.001-05:00

I got off the computer early this evening....to cut out a pattern. I barely did any sewing this weekend and I had all these plans to sew a new shirt/jacket for work. So, being Sunday evening I started feeling the Monday blues early and decided to quick cut this thing out. I picked a fabric I had bought at Fabric Mart...it's a navy blue brushed cotton. It doesn't have a nap, but the slight brush on it definitely goes one way (or is that a nap??). Wouldn't ya know it....I cut out the sleeve going the opposite way. ugh ugh.. I haven't made an error like that since I was a teenager, when I was learning....What was I thinkin??

Now, I'm going to wait to see if it's noticeable in the daylight tomorrow. If it is, I'll just make it short sleeved. I didn't buy enough to cover another long sleeve.

So, I poured myself a glass of wine and watched the movie Top Gun.....

Now, I'm going to bed early.....

UPDATE: I looked at the front and sleeve side by side and didn't see much of a different..so I'm a thinkin I will go ahead with it......i'll take pics.

Bought two more simplicity patterns today....

2009-11-08T18:24:00.000-05:00

What an absolute gorgeous day it was here in Western New York--sunny, warm....not sure what the temperature got up too. Had plans of cutting out a pattern and never got around to it....now it's a week of work...ugh. I did go to Joanne Fabrics (only fabric store around here) and took advantage of the 1.00 simplicity patterns. These are my two choices:

I think this jacket is so cute. But it isn't lined??!! I would have thought it would be, especially if I choose wool. Has anyone lined a jacket on their own?

It probably isn't difficult...but I like to follow a pattern.

Then I got this one:

I've got the urge to try a winter jacket/coat. I have this 6 yard piece of 100% wool that i've had for a long time. It's a blah color....black and cream, small check....I may try it.....

Well, now on to Pattern Review.com and see how others may have made them up........

"I'll get you my little pretties!"

2009-11-04T11:58:00.000-05:00

I went to a fantabulous estate sale recently....picked up some old old patterns and buttons and stuff....I was in heaven. She had stacks and stacks....did I say "Stacks"....of old fabric that I wished I would have looked over...but at the time I was interested in the notions. Anyway, I found a box of old spools of thread....as you can see, they are so pretty. I was going to sell them on my Etsy shop, but decided I can't part with them. At least half of them are 100% pure silk...so nice. Plus, with my alterations business, I won't have to run out to the store so often to find that weird color......

ah, why didn't I go through the fabric. What I did see was really kinda old and musty. She was a seamtress who worked at Singer Company....she was in her 90s....I wish I could have met her....

Lucy

2009-11-01T20:26:00.002-05:00

Watching me sew...can't help it, gotta grab my camera...

Turquoise Jacket....

2009-11-01T20:12:00.008-05:00

This is a Butterick Pattern I picked up quite a while ago....

This is just one of the many projects I finished this summer. It was SO easy and I'll definitely make it again.

Especially since I got this fabric at Joanne's during a 50% off special...I think it cost me $4.00 to make. Isn't it fun to sew so cheap? It's a demin fabric. Not sure exactly, because there was no label on the bolt.

tgif

2009-09-25T16:37:00.002-04:00

oh man, it's Friday. What a long busy work week I had. Now, I have to go home and get those lined drapes done. I've made three out of four. I was asked to put grommets in at the top. Wish me luck, because I have to cut 10 holes along the top of each panel. Now, if I make a mistake........how can I ever correct it. Maybe I should have allowed a bigger hem at the bottom in case I needed the extra fabric??? That's the problem with "me".....i need more confidence with this stuff.

Maybe I should stick to making clothes for myself :)...

Wish me luck.

i'm Excited!

2009-09-23T16:05:00.003-04:00

I know I promised pics of what I've been sewing. I just need to get them taken!! I've also been sewing drapery panels for people. Now my daughter asked me to make Roman Shades....YIKES...wish me luck there.

But, I'm excited because I sold my first pattern through my Etsy shop. I found about 40 vintage patterns, along with some fabric and buttons. So, I listed a few just to see how I do. After a month, I've sold one. Now, maybe I'll post some more.....but either way, it's exciting that somebody bought one! yeah.

I'm Back

2009-08-28T16:17:00.003-04:00

Well, I'm back, after an almost 6 month hiatus!! I don't know...in February got a really bad attack of colitis and was in the hospital for two days....then my cat Abby died :(.....lost interest in sewing and lots of stuff because of work frustrations....my husband's job was giving him lots of stress...which gives me stress.....BUT, I'm back and I've been sewing lots. I will post some pics.

My daughter moved back home in June to save money for a house...so my little sewing alcove became her bedroom again. Now, I'm downstairs in the spare bedroom. But, ya know, with my knees and the stairwell...I'm kinda happier down here. Good news tho, they are closing on their home next week!

Flight 3407

2009-02-13T11:24:00.002-05:00

My deepest prayers are with the families who lost family members and friends on Flight 3407. The crash was about 10 miles from our home. The names of the people haven't been released yet, although my daughter has already told me she knew a girl on the plane. Awful.

Threading a Needle

2009-02-08T19:36:00.001-05:00

I just read Sewuptite's post on handsewing which was a great tip she found on Threads >> just because...: Sewing Tip#links I'm definitely going to try it. I have so much trouble with my thread tangling. Handsewing is very frustrating for me. I always try to use my machine as much as I can.

I have a tip on threading a needle that I want to share, which has worked so well for me. I wish I could say where I read it, especially if it was a blogger, so that I could acknowledge them. If you wet the Needle, as well as the thread, the thread gravitates right to the hole in the needle. It works for me every time and saves me mucho frustration. Try it!!

A Vogue Jacket

2009-02-06T13:30:00.000-05:00

Many moons ago a co-worker of mine asked me if I wanted her grandmother's fabric stash. YIKES...of course, I do. Amongst the treasure was this navy blue/turquoise plaid. I had an old Vogue pattern I thought I'd try. I'm sorry the pic is small and I don't have the pattern number with me here at work. So, I spent Martin Luther King weekend sewing it up.

This is a pic of the inside of the jacket showing how the facing is attached to the sleeve...I thought this was a nice touch, but after trying it on, it looked like this.....

Kinda bunched up. (Actually this pic is worse than it really looked :)) So, I decided to rip out the arm seam and cut the facing smaller so that it wasn't attached anymore.

Here is the finished product. I'm really happy with it. Not only was it extremely easy to sew, it was a "free" jacket!! yeah.

Now, I have to get better at picture taking and ask my husband to take pictures of me actually wearing my creations....hehe...

Sub-Freeze

2009-02-05T15:02:00.000-05:00

It's freezin here in Tonawanda, New York. When I woke up this morning is was -7, yep minus 7!! - at least that's what I was told. Driving into work, the bank's temperature said 1 degree. Yikes. But, it's also a beautiful sunny day here, so believe it or not, my car was warm at lunchtime. Wish I could have stayed home wrapped up in a blanket.......ah....

Lucy Loo

2009-01-29T15:43:00.000-05:00

Just cuz......she makes me smile.

Thanks Julia

2009-01-29T10:34:00.001-05:00

Wow, thank you Julia for this award. Oh my goodness, somebody really likes me!!! hehehe. This is really cool, I've only been "blogging" for a couple of months...but way to boast an ego! I've been reading so many wonderful blogs for over a year now and have been truly inspired by so many. Julia is a special person and a wonderful Gramma and I'm glad she decided to keep her blog going! yeah.

I'm supposed to nominate seven others, but all the blogs I have bookmarked have already been given awards. Blogs that I've bookmarked over the years are:

http://sewmuchtosew.blogspot.com
http://phatdhickdesigns.blogspot.com
http://juliassewsweetandspecial.blogspot.com
http://sewuptight.blogspot.com
http://sewingsaga.blogspot.com

thanks all for the fun and inspiration.....

Rowenta vs. a different brand

2009-01-23T15:19:00.000-05:00

It's been a little dream of mine to have a Rowenta iron. Well, after some long thought, I decided to purchase one. Mind you, I'm the queen of CHEAP....I don't buy anything unless I have too. (Guess this is why I sew too). A few months ago.....I go into my sewing area and there it is -- the top is broken in half on the floor. Seems my sweet kitty, bless her heart, decided to jump on the ironing board and cause it to fall.

The reason for this post....does anyone prefer Rowenta irons? Are they really better? I went out and bought a Black and Decker, but Rowentas are on sale this week at Joann Fabrics......should I?

Weekends

2009-01-19T12:16:00.000-05:00

What is it with weekends. I look so forward to the weekend. While I'm at work I sit and think about all the sewing projects I plan to do, cleaning out closets, you know fun stuff...! Saturday morning comes, first thing I do is perk some coffee, sit on the couch with Lucy and watch the snow fall. I go on the computer and get lost in other blogs. Next thing I know it's lunch time and I have to make lunch, or go out with DH for something to eat. All the plans during the week, notta. What's up with that? Well, i'm off to my "alcove"....

Simplicity 4076

2009-01-17T10:33:00.000-05:00

This has become my new TNT pattern. I've already made two tops out of it for use under jackets and blazers. My first experience with it was bad tho. While trimming the facing around the gathered area of the neck, I guess was was in too much of a hurry and cut into the front piece. There is was -- a nasty little hole. But, it ended up being my muslin.

I was at Joann's and found this soft slinky knit in their clearance aisle.....it's great for under a black blazer.

kitties

2009-01-13T11:59:00.000-05:00

Can't forget my cats too....Abby and Minnie. Of course, they love to watch me sew and are always sleeping on my ironing board. Not cool when you are altering dark clothes for someone.....:)

Lucy

2009-01-13T11:49:00.001-05:00

Isn't she sweet? She is a four year old Miniature Pinscher. She loves to sleep under blankets. Gotta be so careful not to just "plop" down on the couch if there is a blanket there. We've always had large dogs in my family, but I'm lovin this small breed.

My New Blog

2008-12-04T09:58:00.000-05:00

Ok, I'm going to try and start a blog, all of my own. It will probably be about sewing most of all. I have tons to do before Christmas time. I have two wool coats to finish, two curtain panels-lined, and a bedskirt. And my own Christmas gifts that I want to complete. I am going to make two robes. I got a great deal on fabric at Joann's on Black Friday. Can't believe I waited in the long line. It went all the way back to the end of the store.

Now, I need my own little camera so that I can post some pics of my sewing alcove and my projects.........and, of course, my sweet little Lucy.