The New Cutting Table Finished

The cutting table is complete! I LOVE it. After several attempts to find the larger 3″ castors that screw in, my hubby measured the legs and thought he could make the other ones work. This table is so sturdy but what I like most is the height. It’s the same height as my original but with 3″ castors I was able to add to it. I’m 5’8″ tall while it’s not super tall it’s just enough to make things difficult when shopping for pants and cutting tables! All in all I spent just over $100 and I can tell she’ll last a long time. And for a bonus I got extra storage underneath. I have to go buy a shelf but that’s it! Here are the pictures:

How it works in it’s new home. After all the work on the table I reorganized my space. The machines are now much easier for me to get to. I found some old unfinished projects and finished them so I have reviews to follow as well! Soon!

New Cutting Table

Hi! I know I’ve been gone for forever! But I’m back. At least for a little while. I’ve been just super busy with work and preparations for college for my daughter. I have been sewing and will have posts coming up soon! My laptop crashed back in November!! So for my Christmas present to myself was an IPAD!! I LOVE THIS LITTLE THING!!! I did not get the mini cause I’m getting older and my eyesight isn’t what it used to be. LOL!!!

Anyhow I thought I’d do a quick post on my new cutting table in progress. My old table had the metal piece where the wheels connected to the table broke off and could only be welded back on. My husband being a welder could do it but it hasn’t happened yet. The table is still usable I just had to prop that leg up with 2 old textbooks, but it wasn’t as mobile as before. I loved the fact that it can be rolled around anywhere I needed it.

I’d been looking for cheaper options of replacing it. The one I had was good and reasonable at $79.99 thirteen years ago when I got it on a half price sale at Hancock’s. I’ve only had to change the wheels in all these years which cost of me less than $20 for all 6 so I wasn’t complaining.

I went to IKEA thinking of purchasing the Expedit and making a version of this (link below) which consists of 3 Expedit cabinets, wheels, top, and little bit of hardware. Besides being gorgeous it has tons of storage below.

http://littlecornerhouse.blogspot.com/2011/11/ikea-hack-expedit-cutting-table.html

Once I got to IKEA I found this Varde base Kitchen cabinet (Sink) on clearance for $79.99. It was regularly $189.99 and has pre-drilled holes in the legs which work perfectly for my wheels. My son put it together for me and I have to go get a board from the hardware store for the top. I am going to remove my old table top and mount it to the new board. Well my husband is. This is how it looks so far:

I have to get a final pic once its complete but it has two doors and shelving options inside. It’s not on the website but here is something similar:

Varde Cabinet with drawers
Originally I wanted drawers but I like the idea of a shelf for my muslin or anything on a bolt. I’ll post a pic when it’s finished hopefully this weekend.

Jalie 2908 First Try!

I know I need to do a couple of posts on the Thurlow Pants but I stopped sewing these and took the Jeans class with Jennifer Stern on Patternreview.  I saw it was being given again and have wanted to make jeans for quite a while now.  I really enjoyed the class and like being able to get help with the fit and anything else I had questions on.  Jennifer was great so much so I’m thinking about taking her T-Shirt class too.  My first pair of jeans!!!  I used fabric that I wasn’t that thrilled with and I’m happy with the end product.  On my next pair I’ll make some small adjustments.   Here is my Review:

Pattern Description:  Women’s flattering stretch jeans with slim fit through the hips and thigh and a flared leg, back and side front pockets, zip fly with button closure.

Pattern Sizing: I don’t have it with my right now but I think I did BB

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Yes

Were the instructions easy to follow? I took the Jeans Class on Pattern-review so I didn’t use the instructions.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?  They were reviewed on PR over 100 times! I’ve been wanting to try jeans forever and have a couple of jeans patterns. I liked that they are fitted through the thigh.

Fabric Used: Non-stretch denim

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: Oh boy. I didnt like the waistband width so adjusted it to 2.5″ as Jennifer suggested. (Absolutely great class!!) I also lengthened them about 3 inches (like them long). I had to play around with the scoop in the back crotch and Jennifer suggested I add to the side seam of the top to accommodate the scooping I did which worked out great. I also took out about 3 inches from the flare of the legs. I am still working on the fit and will probably lower the front quite a bit.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?
I have already sewn another pair and cut out a third pair. Still making adjustments. Definitely recommend.

Conclusion:  These are great!

More Pics:

Jalie 2908

Change Pocket

Jalie 2908

1st Time Voter Alert !!!!

My son voting for the 1st time!!!

 

If you haven’t gone please do so!!!

 

 

NEW LOOK 6098

Well I haven’t had the time to post a couple of reviews so I’m trying to catch up.  I wore this dress the other day and realized I never reviewed it.  I actually made it back in March (I think).  It’s a great dress!!  Here is my Review:

NL6098

NL6098

<b>Pattern Description: </b>Workroom from Project Runway, misses’ pullover knit dress or top. New Look Just 4 Knits sewing pattern.

<b>Pattern Sizing:</b>18

<b>Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?</b> Yes

<b>Were the instructions easy to follow?</b> Pretty easy

<b>What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?</b> I liked the curved inset under the bust. I also love the little ruching at the sleeves.

<b>Fabric Used:</b>Jersey from G Street $2.97 table

<b>Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:</b> The V neck is WAY TOO low. I stabilized all of the v neck edges with clear elastic (LOVE that stuff) and tacked the opening closed a bit. It’s also very long but I like that I could wear it with my boots.

<b>Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?</b>I would like to sew again but I dont know when. I recommend it if you can adjust the low neckline.

<b>Conclusion: </b> Great Dress!!! It was also pretty quick to sew.

Homecoming Dress B5811

B5811

<b>Pattern Description: </b>Lined dress has seam detail, fitted bodice, semi-fitted skirt, back zipper and slit, and stitched hem. Pleated, single-layer (wrong side shows) peplum has waistband, very narrow hem, and hook & eye closure.

<b>Pattern Sizing:</b>This was for my dd I cut the 8

<b>Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?</b>Yes, except I shortened the peplum. This was the inspiration dress.

ModCloth Dress

 

<b>Were the instructions easy to follow?</b>Yes. There is alot of seaming but everything fit together well.  My problem was my dd picked a striped stretch lace, half my battle was cutting out all of those pieces so the lines would match.

<b>What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?</b>I did not like the order of the seaming. The pattern tells you to seam the CF to the lower side front and the Upper Front with the Upper Side front then seam the upper and lower front together. I think the dart must be included in this seam but there was more bulk in the seams this way at least for me. When I make this dress again (for me !) I’ll sew it the complete opposite and adjust in the princess seam rather than through the bust dart. I love the fact that the peplum was separate so the dress can be worn without it. It also eliminated me having to do a waist stay within the dress.

Loved the dipped points in the center back!

<b>Fabric Used:</b> My dd fell in love with this flesh tone lace (Hancock’s) and then we had to find a match for the Peplum and underlay which we found at Joann’s. I wanted to use 3 different colors like the inspiration dress but she had her own vision. LOL!  In the end I had to go out and buy more lining, originally I thought I could use the underlay for the lace as a lining but I thought it would have a cleaner finish with the addition of another layer (lining) so her top has the lace, an underlay, and lining.  I actually cut the lace crosswise figuring since it was stretch it couldn’t hurt to much.  I thought it was easier matching my stripes across the body instead of up and down.

lace overlay

<b>Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:</b> I took in the seam around the armhole as it went over her shoulder more than she liked. I also adjusted the peplum and was concerned it would be too much fabric. I basically placed the front pattern peice on top of the back just to judge how much shorter it needed to be and I shaped it on the dress form. I had to take it in about 1/2 inch on each side in the waist and that was it. Oh yeah I shorted it about 5 inches.

<b>Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?</b> I am planning on sewing version C for me. I like the seaming details and think it could be a nice cress to color block.

<b>Conclusion: </b> She loved it!  I worked on this all the way up till she had to leave.  The hem isn’t quite right as I was rushing to complete.

FRONT

Thurlow Part 2

I have been working on my first pair of Thurlow’s and am almost finished.  I was very excited after my post the other day and had plans on  sewing the zipper, side seams, and waistband but every evening after work I’d go downstairs wait for the iron to heat up and fall asleep! LOL!

Finally I had everything completed and only needed to add the waistband and hem.  I had a terrible time with the waistband.  The waistband was much shorter than the pants waistline.  I assumed because the back of the waistband is cut on the bias it had to stretch to fit but it was really wonky and funny looking.  I had to go out and get some things done so I thought I’ll take a break, regroup, and cut another waistband out and try it again.   I went all day before I realized what I had done, which was sewed it upside down!!  So I have to get out the seam ripper and remove the waistband and redo that portion then I can hem.

Meanwhile I wanted to document my steps on making the welt pocket.  It’ll be a good reference for me when I make more of these.

First, I sewed the dart closed and interfaced the wrong side of the pant.  This stabilized the area.

Stabilize interior over dart

2. Mark the welt placement.  The pattern only gives a straight line but from previous attempts I like have the legs there for stopping and sewing reference.

Welt Placement markings. You can barely see the one on the left but for this step you really just needed one.

Before you line up your welts you need to mark your stitching lines.  The welts have notches in them which are the dart legs, so I marked the center line according to the pattern which is 1/2 inch and then marked the legs.  The legs are important (I learned from my numerous attempts) because you must sew inside them or you’ll have puckers.

3.  Line up the welts with the Placement marking.

The lines all match up.

Then I lined up the two welts together so both when sewn will be the same length.

Make sure notches are lined up.

All pinned up to sew.  I pin the legs so I won’t sew past these points!

Ready to sew

I forgot to mention earlier I’m making the size 16 which I wasnt sure about but the pattern sizing is very generous.  I actually wondered if it was closer to RTW sizes and not the normal sewing pattern sizes.  With the big 4 patterns I usually make a size 18 so I was nervous.  It turns out they were really a good fit straight out of the envelope I just took in a deeper seam straight down the outer leg.  The only change I made was increasing the back crotch 1 inch.   The length is also very generous.  I am 5’8″ tall and everything I have ever sewn I have had to add 2 inches for my height.  These are about a 1/4″ too long maybe– I have to finish this first pair and see.  I like my pants long enough to wear my 3″ heels.  My next pair I’m going to make the welt smaller but I have to figure out how to accomplish this without that large opening.  I’m sure it’s just in the math and won’t be that difficult to do.

Meanwhile here is the progress:

Zipper

Inside Welt pockets with Pocket Back

Outside Welt Pocket with facing and pocket bag attached

Front Pocket

Hopefully,  I can have these finished tomorrow, get pictures taken, and post a review!!!

Thurlow Trousers Part 1

I am back to pant making.  Normally when the weather changes I do not wear dresses or skirts so a good pair of trousers are very important to me.  I keep trying to find/make a TNT.  Well, I think I have found it!!  I am really excited about it.  Tasia created the new modern Thurlow Trouser pattern.  At first I wasn’t sure but as I looked at the photo and read the details it had some nice RTW details that I liked.  I thought it was worth a try.  The pattern description is:

Finally, a modern trouser pattern designed for curvy hips, fuller thighs and a narrow waist! The Thurlow Trousers sit below the waistline, with a slightly flared leg. Pockets in front are subtle slash pockets that won’t add bulk to the hips.

Pattern includes a cute pair of cuffed shorts as well as full-length pants. Wear the shorts cuffed or un-cuffed, with an optional grosgrain ribbon belt.

A great feature of this pattern is the centre back extension. Both trousers and shorts have extra-wide seam allowances at centre back so they’re easily altered for a custom fit at the waist. Try on your pants when they’re partially sewn, and fit them to your body!

Sizing is proportioned for a pear-shaped figure: smaller waist, larger hips and thighs

They are tailored towards a pear shape which I am not but I thought I’d still give it a try.  I have since completed the muslin and am hopeful to have a pair of trousers soon to share.  This post I wanted to share my welt pocket making.  I have always been very nervous about making these type of pockets but they are on most nicely tailored pants.  Originally I was just going to make the pants and leave the welts off, then I decided I needed to make a muslin and since I was going to try out the fit I may as well tackle the welt pocket.  I then noticed the different technique for inserting the zipper.  I almost always use the Sandra Betzina method for this and was really skeptical about changing/trying this technique but since I was doing a muslin I figured why not give it a try.  Boy was I surprised, they both worked like a charm.  The welt pocket took a few tries but I’m happy to report I am no longer afraid of this technique.  Here is what I learned:

1st Try:

Welts were too big (double folded them) and pucking around the ends

2nd Try:

The size is better but I accidentally sewed them on the wrong side!! Still puckered.

At this point I had used both pant legs so I decided to practice on fabric scraps.  I cut out a couple more welts, read a little more and decided to try again.  I realized some of the puckering would have been eliminated with the use of interfacing.  I dont usually use interfacing when I’m doing a muslin.  I also marked the ends of the welt placement so it looked like a capital I sideways.  This way I knew to sew within the two bars which was crucial for me to eliminate those puckers.

3rd Try:

Much better but I had to figure out the welt size!

Now I had a workable welt but I wasn’t sure where I should be sewing on the welt.  Originally I sewed 5/8 of an inch from the cutting line of the welt (attempt 1 and 2) both were too big and then with attempt 3 I sewed the welt 5/8 of an inch from the fold which resulted int he welt being too small (shown above).  I took another look at the directions which said sew the welt half way so I measured the with of the welt (1 inch) and stitched it @ 1/2 inch and it was perfect.

Attempt 4:

Got It!!

Then I moved forward with making the muslin.  A few of the things I like about this pattern are:

The slant pockets:

Zipper:

It’s really very RTW.

So I dug through the stash and cut out a real pair from some fabric I had.  It has a little stretch to it but nothing I’d be disappointed with if the techniques didn’t work out.  I did the welt pocket first figuring if it didnt work out I wouldnt have wasted alot of time on the garment.

Here they are:

I’m really happy with them.  I think they are pretty good for my 5th time around.  I hope to complete the rest of the trousers this weekend and post a picture of me wearing them.  I can see me making many of these in my future!!!

New Look 6123 Double take

First,  I love this pattern and all of the options!! I bought as soon as it came out.  Mimi made a fantastic version in a double knit and I hadnt even thought of using that fabric for this.  I always lean towards jersey knit fabrics because they are super easy to fit!!  I bought the animal print because it looked like alot of fun but it’s much more color than I’m used to.  I thought the animal print with the super feminine would work out well.  It could be a good date night out dress.  I had the double knit in my stash for over a year waiting for the right pattern and I decided to use this one.  I love this dress and it’s easy to wear.  Here is my Review:

NL 6123

<b>Pattern Description: </b>Misses’ dress with sleeve and bodice variations including flattering drape and ruffle detail.

<b>Pattern Sizing:</b>8-18

<b>Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?</b> Yes

<b>Were the instructions easy to follow?</b> The instructions were very easy.

<b>What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?</b> I loved the different options and the drape.

<b>Fabric Used:</b> My first version is double knit from Fabric Mart and the second is ITY Jersey from G Street.

<b>Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:</b> Well I think it runs a little large but it could have been my fabric choices.  I had to take them both in quite a bit.  I cut the jersey out first and had it ready while I completed another project but actually sewed the double knit for a work related meeting.  I will defintely adjust if I sew again.  I did have to lengthen both which is normal for me so I generally do this automatically now with anything I sew.  I also eliminated the zipper on both because I didnt need it.

<b>Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?</b>Yes I’ll definitely sew again and highly recommend!

<b>Conclusion: </b> Fantastic feminine dress!

Simplicity 1776

I am still trying to catch up on things I’ve sewn but not posted. This dress was completed maybe 2 weeks ago. Here is my Review:

SIMPLICITY 1776

Pattern Description: Misses’/Miss petite lined A-line dress has square or jewel neckline, short or 3/4 sleeve options and pocket variations.

Pattern Sizing:12-20

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?Yes except I put the exposed Zipper in the front.

Were the instructions easy to follow?  Yes

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I have RTW dress very similar that I love to wear. I liked the pockets with flaps.

Fabric Used:I used a lightweight double knit I bought a year ago at Hancocks. The pockets are a remnant of black double knit fabric that I had.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: I lowered the scoop neckline down to the size 12 marking maybe another 1/2 inch. I sized up because I was using the double knit but I dont know what I was thinking I should have sized down to a 16. I had to take out about 3 inches from the back seam. I also didnt used facings but self binded the neck edge.

Simplicity has an online video tutorial on how to do the exposed Zipper for this pattern.  I actually didn’t use it and only noticed it last night.  I simply folded the center front piece and ironed the crease in the fold just to the bottom of the zipper.  I opened it and laid the zipper on top of the foldline centering the zipper teeth on it.  I pinned it in place and sewed it down on the very edge of the tape.  I then cut straight down the center of the fold not completely to the end though. I then folded back the seam allowance and sewed on top of the previous stitching reinforcing the zipper and moving the seam allowance out of the way.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?  I highly recommend. I would love to sew this again maybe in a linen fabric.

Conclusion: It was a really quick project. I love the dress!!