tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-57940577695961806922012-02-09T22:32:12.667-06:00... and record of Creative ProjectssdBevnoreply@blogger.comBlogger5051100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-57886082124833060262012-02-09T09:15:00.000-06:002012-02-09T09:15:06.419-06:00

It's not that I haven't been sewing.  Three of the V7973 posts required looking, comparing, thinking. While I thinking I was sewing other things, but not taking photos.  I couldn't.  First the piece that holds the camera on the tripod fell off apparently breaking my camera.  So DH was going to really secure the piece that fell off the tripod but he broke that. I have my preference in glue. He has

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-26434503205058738362012-02-08T09:05:00.263-06:002012-02-09T01:30:44.180-06:00

After all the discussions I'm sure what you really want to know is "How'd V7973 fit with the fish hook crotch?" The answer is: Not that good.  I had expected the pant to be too big all over.  I compared this pattern with my JSM pant pattern before tracing.  I traced a size larger than normal because I wanted room to to tweak the fit.  V7973 has  a  camel toe issue:  is obviously too tight:

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-50816937058747207722012-02-07T07:33:00.000-06:002012-02-07T07:33:00.364-06:00

I simply had to know how effective the fish hook crotch is for my body.  I chose to test it on Vogue 7973,  you know the pattern with the funny shallow back crotch curve. I like this pattern for several reasons It has the same styling as a favored pair of work pants, when I worked.  Mine were constructed of cotton with just 1 or 2% Lycra. Just enough for comforts sake but also that small

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-84625734668230339692012-02-06T09:05:00.000-06:002012-02-06T09:05:00.139-06:00

So here are my questionsAre all my pant-fitting problems solved because of the fish hook curve? If so why? I need a narrow should alteratons because the Industry drafts a 5 inch shoulder when I have only 4 inches up there. It's infallible. Outside of a string, I need to narrow the shoulder. What is the specific cause that I need the fish hook curve? Does the 2 piece pant back provide fitting

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-42209711135702070602012-02-05T17:45:00.001-06:002012-02-05T17:45:00.162-06:00

I'm not sure if this makes sense, but while I'm thinking of pants fitting, I need to sew something else.  I need to sew.  It's my therapy, my relaxation, my creative endeavor.  But pants fitting needs thought before I cut into the next fabric.  So I've preplanned a couple of simple projects.  Projects I can sew while I'm fretting about pants fitting.  This slip is one of those projects. My

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-37948958774835338382012-02-04T11:30:00.002-06:002012-02-04T11:30:00.174-06:00

I also need to review and contemplate the various crotch curves used in the pattern making industry. My reviews may not do anything for you other than expose how little I know. But I need to do these reviews. I need to think back over the past 4 years as to what I've done; what I've read; what I've learned.  The Fashion Incubator has a number of informative posts on the draft of pants and how

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-18364351134704314432012-02-03T10:27:00.001-06:002012-02-03T10:27:00.750-06:00

It's the once and forever quest, except this year I promised myself to try and understand why pants fit the way they do.  I need to start with some review. Forever and ever it seems as though I had 2 complaints about pants. Some, but not all, did not come all the way up in the center back. Some, but not all, had this extra bubble in front. I know I was not alone in these problems.  Well

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-70260510422365212632012-02-02T11:54:00.001-06:002012-02-02T11:54:00.295-06:00

How did we get here so soon?  I thought my mother said life would slow down when I retired.  This is one time when she was wrong.  The days pass just as quickly now that I have "all that time" not spent working or thinking about work.  So here we are at end of January and I have completed 14 items and had 1 wadder: Tops (blouses, Tshirts, shirts etc) 9 Skirts 1 Vests 1 Book Covers 3 Wadders 1

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-34525396745424487342012-02-01T09:37:00.000-06:002012-02-01T09:37:00.356-06:00

and my last garment in January 2012: New Look 6538 is a pattern in my stash for so long I can't find copies of the envelope face on the Internet. It is a basic vest pattern which everyone should have some slight variation in their own pattern collection, providing of course that you would ever wear a vest.  I've made several variations from the original pattern including creating the one-piece

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-19473187895874984552012-02-01T06:05:00.000-06:002012-02-01T06:05:05.690-06:00

I really do enjoy hearing from my friends.  I enjoy your comments and suggestions, but like Stitchers Guild I'm getting lots of terrible spam. I'm suspending comments until the spammers forget me. So sorry,,,,,

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-89883007805274050252012-01-31T09:05:00.003-06:002012-01-31T09:05:00.335-06:00

Simplicity 1972 to be exact. I bought this pattern with a bunch of others when I could get them on sale.  I remember it being so appealing, just mesmerising.  I pulled it out to use and stared at it much more closely.  I had an ITY knit from Fabricmart picked out, but just couldn't cut into it.  See, as I kept looking at the picture and then the pattern pieces, I realized that the Gothic (not

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-84725594351815008242012-01-30T09:30:00.001-06:002012-01-30T09:30:01.601-06:00

Dresses and skirts have been on my sewing list ever since ejvc explained their importance in the average woman's wardrobe. (The link goes to her blog but not the appropriate post).  I wear my summer dresses and I have one simple tube skirt that I wear in the winter.  Several dresses and skirts have appeared in my wardrobe to be worn once and the passed along. And I keep looking at dresses and

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-29071267920905465032012-01-29T09:05:00.001-06:002012-01-29T09:05:00.499-06:00

Yesterday's knit top has a neckline issue.  This is due to poor planning on my part.  I trimmed the neckline a little lower and then decided to finish with FOE instead of a knit band. Don't get me wrong, this is a good neckline for me. It's a nice portrait neckline--showing a little neck and upper chest but no real cleavage.  I'm not however posing for portraits.  I am living in South Dakota....

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-73486377370538665962012-01-28T04:06:00.000-06:002012-01-28T04:06:00.777-06:00

This is a favorite pattern.  I bought Pamela's Pattern 103 first.  That us the T-shirt conversion pattern.  I remember well the first T shirt that I altered using PP103.  It was relatively easy. The results were over-the-top. I loved it. DH was astonished.  Later I bought PP104 and have been using this pattern to make most of my T-Shirts. I also use this pattern to compare with untried knit tops.

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-73929590086705562662012-01-27T04:06:00.000-06:002012-01-27T04:06:22.501-06:00

Having working on this for over 2 weeks, I expected a little more enthusiasm from myself.  Truth is, I'm tired of it. I spent far too long experimenting with stencils and paint. Fortunately I chose Loes Hines Boat Neck top 5205 (I think) and lengthened it about 2 inches. The neckline is finished with FOE.  I've developed a new love for FOE and stitch-turn-stitch elastic. I used the single-piece

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-24590973030357735902012-01-23T14:02:00.000-06:002012-01-23T14:02:28.520-06:00

I was seriously enamored with this graphical only rendition: So enamored that I resized the artwork, printed it on "Best" quality (a slow process on my HP1400 printer). I burned the stencil and did a test print.  Perfect.  I decided to launder my testing fabric.  Part of me said that the shaving cream shouldn't have any effect on the color fastness of the paints. Part of me said that anytime you

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-27374664867754979492012-01-22T09:05:00.000-06:002012-01-22T09:05:00.640-06:00

I need to summarize my experiments and I hope this of some interest to you as well. I need to step back and see the overall picture as well as the details that I've immersed myself within. I need to organize and clarify in my own mine the properties and benefits as well as disadvantages to each media with which I've experimented. My comments are limited to usage in fabric applications and my

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-19275880761125940842012-01-21T09:26:00.001-06:002012-01-21T09:26:00.460-06:00

**********Before I share some more of my experiments I want to apologize for not answering your comments.  I can't. Blogger will not allow me to post comments on my own blog. Blogger hangs while displaying the comments section; requiring a complete reboot of my computer.  I can read the comments from the Dashboard but this is the only place I post my responses and thanks.  Because Blogger is

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-72441967326953779922012-01-20T08:58:00.000-06:002012-01-20T08:58:00.636-06:00

Not my favorite, of course.  I'd much prefer to raise the neckline however I'm not always that smart.  I also don't really care for dickeys.  While they look like they'd fill the bill, I find tying, clamping, and tucking doesn't always work or works lose throughout the day.  The current day fix is layering which I don't care for either.  To me it looks like the stores have figured out how to make

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-44504648495355025452012-01-19T12:56:00.000-06:002012-01-19T12:56:45.913-06:00

This morningI had the disagreeable experience of needing to discard two recently completed garments. My rayon blouse from 3568 shrunk after only one laundry cycle.  I've not been afraid to use Rayon after a friend explained that most garments or fabrics that are marked "dry clean only" really aren't. That is they can be laundered normally if they are pretreated.  Sometimes pretreating, a simple

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-19733168928655389082012-01-18T16:58:00.000-06:002012-01-18T16:58:07.190-06:00

I purchased this pattern several years ago when cowl necks were first returning to popularity.  I didn't really like this pattern and consequently it's sat in my stash unused while I traced or cut other cowl neck patterns. I picked it out this time as I was looking for something easy.  I'm spending a lot of time testing and exploring but not producing.  I'm a person who has to make something. 

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-32540551099782081262012-01-18T09:05:00.002-06:002012-01-18T09:05:00.049-06:00

I've been experimenting. It takes time.  First I needed a design I would use.  It took time and effort and learning.  Several tutorials later I can knock around in GIMP and most importantly can search the help.  I don't ever expect to be an expert user with this program, but I can now convert many of my designs into usable stencils.  There are even colored designs that I can use.  After that

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-59139839189798326702012-01-17T10:09:00.000-06:002012-01-17T10:09:28.072-06:00

This is the "Bianca Sweater" pattern from Loes Hines.  It's more than a T shirt pattern, although that's what first comes to mind.  I think the pattern was designed for sweater knits. I'm using a Rayon knit purchased from Fabric Mart a few months ago. I'm using the same size I would for a sweater knit fabric.  The pattern is designed for the shoulders to end at the natural shoulder.  For me

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-67359176497043002572012-01-16T09:05:00.001-06:002012-01-16T09:05:00.283-06:00

DH Camo Shirt: You must understand that here in MidWest America, a man's wardrobe is simply unwearable without camouflage shirts.  A different camouflage pattern is required for different terrains.  Although I'm not sure why water color camouflage is not suitable for break room camouflage. I'm using Kwik Sew 3506.  This is the styling that DH thinks is ideal.  I made the first version based

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-2938348892369061832012-01-15T09:05:00.001-06:002012-01-15T09:05:00.784-06:00

I thought I'd explain with pictures: Let me say again: I've never liked tie dye in it's final wearable form.  I think it's a wonderful way to explore color and dyeing, but the garments themselves are ugly, IMO These are 3"x4" samples of my fabric.  The fabric itself feels very nice.  But it was purely wishful thinking that I'd get anything other than enema-art when it's clearly labeled as tie

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-80526657058461779582012-01-14T09:05:00.001-06:002012-01-14T09:05:01.334-06:00

So my idea -- continuing from yesterday - would be to print a design on the ugly fabric and make a long top using LH5203.  First step was choosing the design to be printed.  I like this one: Instead of 4 colors I want the foreground in the design to be white and the background to be black.  I know I'm going to need to manipulate the graphic with more tools than MS Paint provides, so I download a

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-8354900269378968192012-01-13T09:05:00.001-06:002012-01-13T09:05:00.375-06:00

This kit appeared underneath the Christmas tree last year: OK I admit that I had something to do with it.  Fact is DH has no problem with me purchasing these "toys".  He did ask if I wouldn't prefer something else. Something a little better built.  My response was that I wasn't sure I even wanted to do "this".  I didn't want to invest a couple of hundred dollars in something only to use it once;

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-33978173188690623952012-01-12T01:54:00.000-06:002012-01-12T01:54:59.456-06:00

I have the fabric printing sheets, but that's not what I'm referring to in this post.  Printing covers a range of techniques used to impress an image onto a fabric surface.  It includes the fabric printing sheets run through a printer, but I'm specifically thinking of the use of stencils and silk screens.  I don't know but maybe imprinting would be a better word choice. In Aug 2011, I

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-35551501615232751652012-01-09T21:14:00.000-06:002012-01-09T21:14:36.095-06:00

...and one more in the works.  That's because these stitching out merrily at the embroidery machine while I struggle and fuss with the details of my next SAM-Shirt A Month.  I'm working on a shirt for DH using Kwik Sew 3506  and Debbie Cook's collar instructions.  I do not use exactly Kiwk Sew's instructions or assembly order.  I have for example all, but 2 of the buttonholes and buttons done

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-1783055195776082752012-01-07T09:05:00.001-06:002012-01-07T09:05:00.442-06:00

I'm actually doing a series of covers.  I have several sewing and art journals which are suffering due to their handling and original cheapness.  I actually enjoy choosing fabrics and embroidery designs to cover these long suffering journals.  I don't wish to discard them.  For one thing, I'm amazed to see how I have changed over the last few years. The very act of making time to document my

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-32998890214129402392012-01-06T13:25:00.000-06:002012-01-06T13:25:47.858-06:00

It's not that I've been sewing more than usual, it's more like my projects all completed about the same time.  I both like and dislike this vest sewn for my Winter 2011 6PAC My machine embroideries came out beautiful.  I did have to edit the design to reduce the jumps.  Because it is a stencil like format, all jumps could not be eliminated.  Fact is, the design to looks it's best needed spaces,

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-20064582706812535562012-01-05T13:58:00.000-06:002012-01-05T13:58:24.987-06:00

That's Shirt of the Month Sew Along just in case you're not a member of Stitchers Guild. I'm really pleased with this shirt. The fit is casual, whereas I was expecting close or at least closer fit. The arms are too long, but that's entirely my fault.  I thought the shirt had cuffs. See the pattern front: ...well I assumed that rolled up area contained cuffs.  I didn't realize there weren't any

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-26179955538557487562012-01-02T11:31:00.001-06:002012-01-02T11:33:07.411-06:00

If you've read for long, you know that I don't do resolutions.  Resolutions are forgotten almost as soon as they are spoken.  Goals however are usually attainable and measurable.  Goals motivate me whereas resolutions guilt me.  I posted the results of my 2011 Goals a little over a week ago (around Dec 23).   I started thinking about my 2012 goals just before Thanksgiving.  Sewing, Art and

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-77451451073235556132012-01-01T10:44:00.001-06:002012-01-01T10:53:23.902-06:00

Item Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec Total Blouse/Top… 10 2 1 7 7 10 10 4 4 3 1 2 61 Pants………. 2 5 1 3 7 1 3 2 7 3 1 2 37 Skirts………. 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 Dresses……. 0 0 0 1 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 3 Vests………. 4 3 4 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 2 15 Coats/jacket 4 1 1 2 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 10 HandBags…. 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 4 CosmeticBag 20 0 0 0 0 15 0 0 0 0 0 0 35 Doll Blankets 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-21987970842924409952011-12-30T13:11:00.001-06:002011-12-30T13:12:02.886-06:00

Not exactly.  My pattern is Loes Hines 5213.  I love the sewing process Loes uses.  There are no darts.  All the darts have been rotated to the seam lines.  I did place the back on a fold thereby eliminating some shaping and the center back seam: Despite the incorporated shaping, this pattern is definitely for knits or very stretchy wovens.  It is close fitting, which of course gives a much

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-49026522911008023792011-12-29T09:33:00.002-06:002011-12-29T09:35:03.817-06:00

What started out as a way to test embroidery designs and use up scraps to create book covers, has become a looked-forward-to activity.  The book above will be my sketchbook starting Jan 1, 2012.  Sometimes my sketch books are used for several years. It just depends upon what is going on in my life. So this could be for 2012, 2013 and beyond or it could be filled up by June.  I like this size, 5x7

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-11030740734713461462011-12-27T12:29:00.000-06:002011-12-27T12:29:09.445-06:00

GOAL 12: DEVELOP SEWING TECHNIQUES AND SKILL WITH SEWING DIFFICULT FABRICS This was really pretty straight forward.  I'd choose a difficult fabric once each month, check my sewing manuals and sew.  Trying out different techniques built my skills and knowledge.  By the end of the year, I was pulling out fabrics without hesitation and using the knowledge I had developed to sew successfully.  I'm

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-11510532057250877762011-12-27T12:25:00.000-06:002011-12-27T12:25:39.100-06:00

GOAL 7: EXAND USE OF OTHER EMBELLISHMENTS I don't know about complete, but totally and amazingly SUCCESSFUL.  My garments became more unique and less uniform as I substituted other embellishments and seam finishes for machine embroidery.  I still love machine embroidery and will still use it extensively.  But I do love the results I've had this year.  GOAL 8: CREATE ONE DRESS OR ONE SKIRT EACH

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-672119562658621262011-12-26T09:05:00.001-06:002011-12-26T09:05:00.579-06:00

My original goal was too open-ended.  It just said "Control Fabric and Pattern Acquisitions".  For starters this is hardly measurable.  When can I say SUCCESS or failure? And there is no method to achieve the goal let alone a reason for doing so. When a goal is set, you need to know how to reach it.  Such open ended goals are confusing and in the end, disappointing. First I needed to acknowledge

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-53366741869601654022011-12-25T23:32:00.001-06:002011-12-25T23:32:00.171-06:00

When I first wrote this goal, I didn't really know what I wanted to do.  My thrifty nature said it was a shame to buy a whole new pattern, go through the fitting process and all that basting.  when all I wanted was a change to a cuff.  That same nature pointed out that I often buy a new pattern, make all the fitting adjustments and -holy moly- it looks almost exactly like one of my existing

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-19811647718072663222011-12-25T16:15:00.000-06:002011-12-25T16:15:04.531-06:00

It sounded like a simple goal.  Determine what information I needed or wanted on a label, choose a font and stitch it out. Right?  Except I couldn't decided what I wanted.  Did I want to use my name? My Internet name? A more creative name?  Did I want care information on the label? A date? Pattern number? Oh and then choosing a font.  Which font best expressed my personality? Should I use

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-52111614287962995762011-12-25T09:05:00.003-06:002011-12-25T10:43:07.074-06:00

Due to my distance from stores, I'd gotten into the habit of using the closest color match while sewing.  That meant that I sometimes used the serger threads.  I don't consider serger thread inferior.  But it was designed to be used in conjunction with at least 2 other threads and is therefore much lighter.  I prefer polyester thread.  I understand there are disadvantages, but I like the poly

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-70061764832133751622011-12-24T22:59:00.002-06:002011-12-25T16:09:36.397-06:00

I did have sort of a organization.  At lease, all the cones of serger thread are in one corner of my sewing room.  They do however occupy 6 plastic drawers. Each is approximately 8" tall, 12" wide and 16" deep.  I'm not sure, but I think I have in the neighborhood of 400 cones.  I have so many because I've been serging for about 20 years.  At first I tried to match the color of all 4 cones to

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-18676147417851677992011-12-23T11:25:00.002-06:002011-12-24T22:53:22.627-06:00

I'm beginning my end of year review now because I have a lot to say.  Understandably, you may prefer to skip these posts because they will be word heavy and picture light. But do come back later when I resume sewing. Goal #1: Reorganize Embroidery Threads At the beginning of 2011, every embroidery project required hunting in 2 rooms and 3 different places to find the threads I wanted to use.  

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-41870078404071515392011-12-22T11:23:00.000-06:002011-12-22T11:23:19.719-06:00

This fall, I added several (like about 30) new patterns to my pattern stash.  I look for different design lines, details that maybe I could draft myself but why not just buy the pattern when they are on sale.  I chose Simplicity 3568for it's cowl collar and bell shaped sleeves. I'm unlikely to make or use the belt/scarf thingy. I'm also unlikely to use the pants or skirt patterns.  I don't care

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-29707258804078806142011-12-19T09:05:00.003-06:002011-12-19T09:05:02.495-06:00

The number of "jackets" I completed during 2011 stunned me.  I had no idea I had sewn so many 3rd layer garments.  I found that especially surprising since I declined to commit to sewing a jacket each month thinking I would never make 12 in a single year.  That number is even more surprising because my obsession is with pants. Speaking of which I completed 35 pairs, including wadders, muslins 

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-17850789197756273642011-12-18T09:05:00.002-06:002011-12-18T09:41:16.782-06:00

As mentioned, I'm contemplating 2011, my goals for this past year and what I want to do next year.  I did not have a firm commitment to the Jacket A Month sew-along.   For one thing, I'm a bit of a stickler on the definition.  Fortunately, the members of SG are not.  If we'd played by "my" rules, I would have had a total count of 3, one semi-tailored jacket, one unstructured jacket and one

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-60023838947442397322011-12-17T16:12:00.001-06:002011-12-17T16:13:19.294-06:00

I should be pursuing my Winter 6PAC.  Having finally sewn a pair of pants I love, I should be on a roll.  Having finally purchased the underlining needed for my black coat to go with the Winter 6 PAC, I should be steaming ahead full! I'm not.  I'm sidetracked.  Well partly it's because I've determined that the vest for this 6PAC is also a bust. It is now washed, folded carefully and stacked in

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-81564891337129741352011-12-15T09:18:00.004-06:002011-12-15T09:18:00.479-06:00

I'm taking today to thank all of you for your support when comes to fitting pants.  At this point, I think there is something wrong with me.  Mentally, I mean.  I keep buying new patterns from the same old companies who's pants patterns didn't fit me before.   I love the nuances in the new patterns.  I love all the designer details and wish I would think of things like that. I like to reward

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-65511260662303630462011-12-14T09:00:00.002-06:002011-12-14T15:47:38.306-06:00

In the last post the McCalls 6440 was now in the trash - still true.  I also mentioned that I altered TJ906 to have the same design feature, i.e. the 2 piece back pant leg and contoured waistband - no pockets, no back yoke.  What I didn't mention was my confusion in choose the pattern size.  I have both a size 12 and a size 14 traced and apparently (judging from the notes on my envelopes) fitted.

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-21633499399144861422011-12-13T09:17:00.001-06:002011-12-13T09:17:00.941-06:00

I feel like I'm obsessing about pants again. I devoted one of my sewing sessions to mending.  I didn't have much - 2 missing buttons and a hem coming loose- but I like to get the mending done right after the laundry and keep the mending in a "not much" category.  The mending went quickly, as expected and I decided to tackle alterations.  I've added 4 tucks to the back of my vest.   My pic was

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-32238234112867385922011-12-12T09:14:00.000-06:002011-12-12T09:14:00.314-06:00

So lets talk about how I feel about this vest.  I'm not completely happy and not anywhere near calling it a wadder. First the closure as you saw yesterday needs improvement.  I love the subtle touch. The bit of shine. The reutilization of a object most people would discard. But my application needs to be improved. Second the drape.  I both like and dislike the drape.  Thank heavens, the

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-84131174031846916712011-12-10T11:32:00.001-06:002011-12-10T11:32:00.343-06:00

Ah we're going to go quickly to the finish because sewing was the easiest and fastest of all the processes: Surprisingly A31 at 8 high stitched out very quickly.  I did spend about equal time at the ironing board adding the appropriate SAS fusing or turning/fusing.  I was concerned about my interior pockets. I mean I wanted them. I use them.  I need them.  I used the same A31 stitch at the same

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-23286657668754761652011-12-09T10:31:00.001-06:002011-12-09T10:31:00.072-06:00

After making the pattern decisions 2 days ago, I ironed-not pressed-the wrinkles out of my fabric.  I smoothed the fabric out, placed the pattern pieces and cut the fabric.  I cut my standard pockets but did not cut any facings or edgings.  In fact the whole consideration of finishing the edges brought this project to a halt. I'm making basic wardrobe pieces.  True I'm using a shade of gray

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-7214373075002551232011-12-08T09:11:00.000-06:002011-12-08T09:11:00.200-06:00

The matching layering piece is my next garment.  I'm using the same double-knit poly-cotton fabric as for the pants. That means, I don't need to rethread the machine or even change the needles. Yeah.  I've decided upon Vogue 8756: You know there are some fabrics that just don't photo well.  Black is notoriously bad, but this white photo isn't real good either. I'm fascinated by the drape in

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-5985265046359654382011-12-07T09:33:00.001-06:002011-12-07T09:33:00.208-06:00

My latest Stitch Recipe: Not quite done. I started by marking 3 chalk lines 3/4" apart.  I'm using a 12 sharp needle because my fabric is a cotton/poly twill (scrap from a pair of pants) and is stabilised with a light weight, sticky, tear-away. I love this particular stabiliser and use it when embroidering T-shirts.  The outside rows are a compilation of C-18 size 6-high; then using T1 I move

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-11437661679703638722011-12-06T09:03:00.008-06:002011-12-06T09:03:00.780-06:00

Lets put it on the line: Tops (blouses, Tshirts etc) 1 Pants 1 Vests 1 Coats/jackets 1 TOTAL 4 Doesn't look like much sewing and I certainly can't blame the weather or Holidays. I did however complete my tailored Caramel Wool coat which was a huge undertaking.  I spent entire sewing sessions practicing and even more hand sewing. I also started the black winter coat and then quit until I could

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-48662606687410559832011-12-05T12:54:00.001-06:002011-12-06T23:10:14.778-06:00

maybe This fabric is surprising.  I chose it for it's color, beefy weight and knit type fabric.  It is a cotton-poly double knit. It is comfortable but in retrospect, I wish I'd chose a Yoga Pant pattern instead of the more fitted McCall's 6440.  I planned to fit it more closely... .... until I realized that the fabric was clinging despite having a beefy hand. Fortunately, most of the issues

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-48542186969157748892011-12-03T17:26:00.002-06:002011-12-03T17:26:00.361-06:00

I have cut the trousers and basted them together, but I still have time to change my mind on any of the rest.  So this isn't definitive and I haven't made a story board but the plan is: Winter 6PAC              Pattern             Fabric Trousers                      M6440            Grey Double Knit Coordinating Top        LH5210           Grey Double Knit Contrasting Top          CLD 12269

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-16914225879613631082011-12-03T09:04:00.002-06:002011-12-03T09:04:00.477-06:00

Two changes to format I want to warn you about.  I'll no longer be telling what order I created these stitches in. I'm working over several days and then writing my posts.  My order of creation can't really be that important besides do I really want to announce "this is the 26th" or whatever?? Secondly when describing the stitches used, I will use the notation Menu-Stitch.  So Stitch 26 of Menu

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-58372554327584390212011-12-02T16:52:00.002-06:002011-12-02T16:52:00.359-06:00

This is the last fabric I selected and it was the hardest decision to make. I knew I wanted a woven fabric for this top. I kept looking for fabrics that would look good with the greys already selected. I would have thought you get grey by diluting black and the result would be the same neutral just lighter. So all greys would harmonize with all greys and all other colors. Not so. Grey is not just

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-10969714560884816792011-12-02T09:48:00.001-06:002011-12-02T09:48:00.685-06:00

I saw this design used to embellish a ribbon hence the name chosen: Ribbon Heart.  The Inspiration: My replication: I may revisit this design when I learn more about how Ruby's programming modes work.  There are 2 major differences in my mind.  1) I used a single color where the original is a 2 color design.  I tend to think that a 2 color design might be better executed in Embroidery mode.

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-72223457550249527692011-12-01T16:37:00.001-06:002011-12-01T16:37:00.149-06:00

The color of my next fabric looks a whole lot like the knits but it is lighter: It is a woven microfiber; smooth on one side; sueded on the other, no stretch. It's left from an almost perfect One-Seams made back in Oct? Nov? I will want a vest with this as well. In fact I'm going to use the recently fitted Sinplicity 2188. I'm both happy and dissatisfied with the first version. Happy because it

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-87065868423686958322011-12-01T09:07:00.002-06:002011-12-01T09:07:00.274-06:00

I have numerous samples of Stitch Recipes.  Choosing just one is difficult.  I decided to try to replicate: Now this pic has been greatly enlarged so you can see it.  I believe this is a Bernina sample but could be wrong.  My finished sample: needs 3 rows of stitching and as you can see is not exactly the same as the inspiration piece.  Row One and Three are created by using Stitch #2 from N1 (

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-36195607112358459972011-11-30T17:32:00.000-06:002011-11-30T17:32:40.487-06:00

I haven't forgotten about my 6PAC for this winter. I really need/want a black winter coat and a check in my closet showed that refreshing the whole black/grey winter capsule was in order.  The first fabric chosen would be the black wool for the coat - not shown here because a photo of a black hole isn't any different than a photo of a black piece of fabric.  My second choice for fabrics is the

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-21446546736782591282011-11-30T09:40:00.002-06:002011-11-30T09:40:00.091-06:00

I've just begun exploring this feature of my sewing machine, the Husqvarna Viking Ruby (HV Ruby).   I'd long admired textiles which were embellished using multiple rows of stitching.  I love the plain cotton as well as the shiny and colorful rayons and polyesters threads.  Over the years, I've collected several samples.  These are known variously as "Stitch Recipes" or "Stacking Stitches, or "

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-52354128825602946882011-11-27T16:39:00.005-06:002011-11-27T16:39:50.451-06:00

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-35467929464494746962011-11-27T16:39:00.003-06:002011-11-27T16:39:32.387-06:00

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-4666390387810974402011-11-27T16:39:00.001-06:002011-11-27T16:39:21.521-06:00

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-16388866327862209322011-11-27T16:14:00.091-06:002011-11-28T11:55:24.464-06:00

In 2010, just about Thanksgiving, I purchased a new Almost Top-of-the-Line sewing machine.  I chose the Husqvarana Viking Ruby.  It had nearly all the features I desired, along with all the improvements the industry has made since my last TOL purchase of a Bernina 1630. That's over 15 years.  The only feature Ruby lacks, when compared to my 1630, was the ability to create my own sewing stitch

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-53542727102463648912011-11-21T13:40:00.000-06:002011-11-21T13:40:34.658-06:00

How do you take 6 photos and all of them bad?  Well  one way is to move just before the shutter snaps. Another is a ridiculous pose. Third poor posture. Fourth, oh why go on.  Point is I will be reviewing the fit, the pattern AND I will point out why the review is right and the photo wrong. I just simply cropped my head out of this photo.  You can't tell much about the pants from my pose anyway

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-66157480248467435202011-11-18T14:57:00.001-06:002011-11-18T14:59:42.601-06:00

I want skinny pants. I don't buy into "straight from the hip" algorithm proposed by "What Not to Wear". Nope I don't. I am 5'3" tall and weigh between 145 and 150 pounds. Pants that drop straight from my hips have a 24" hem circumference and add 50 pounds to my frame, visually. Nope serious, such large flared pants or skirts make me look short and dumpy. I want skinny jeans but not leggings. I

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-27762467958101426762011-11-16T23:15:00.001-06:002011-11-16T23:16:53.672-06:00

... is finished.  Tuesday I tacked the front facings in place, finished the buttonholes, added the buttons and gave the coat a few more puffs of steam before hanging it back on Mimie (my dressform).  Wednesday I realized that 5 years ago I would not have hesitated to call this my best work. But I retired 5 years ago and have since invested more time and thought into my sewing.  I've become very

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-23750244987140629272011-11-15T13:42:00.000-06:002011-11-15T13:42:13.359-06:00

*update1:  I've been sick, terribly sick. OK I felt really bad but a 2 week cold isn't necessarily that serious or life threatening.  It's just that it followed 3 weeks of an infection (my thumb) and I really don't do well on cold medicines.  I think I'm now over the cold (and the infection) but still need to shunt all the medicines out of my system.  Sewing has varied between slow and standstill

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-73774696933883510082011-11-08T08:46:00.000-06:002011-11-08T08:46:00.421-06:00

This is one of my "new" patterns.  I see a 2005 date on the envelope, so we can assume the pattern is at least 6 years old.  It is classic Loes i.e. elegant lines to be executed in fabulous fabric.  I purchased this pattern because the three other LH patterns I have are wonderful.  They are easy to sew (just carefully mark and match all dots) and always look wonderful.  I do believe that Loes

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-59692372395648279672011-11-07T08:19:00.000-06:002011-11-07T08:19:14.523-06:00

Here we are beginning the 2nd week in November and it finally occurred to me to review my sewing for October.: Tops (blouses, Tshirts etc) 3 Pants 3 HandBags 1 TOTAL 7 Not my most productive month. In my defense I point out the 3 pair of pants.  As I said in my last post, pants are not a slam dunk for me.  In the very least, I sew each pair twice just to get one pair (I baste completey,

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-19534470327061114242011-11-06T12:57:00.000-06:002011-11-06T12:57:32.668-06:00

No no, I hasten to assure you this is not a  lack of mojo, rather my mojo is on overdrive.  Rather like an end of season fly who buzzes around and around in your house.  You know, slightly too fast for the flyswatter but not bothering you enough to push you into getting out of your chair to go find the environmentally unfriendly fly spray.  Yep that's me. First I need - to finish my coat. And

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-25340233788379490922011-11-04T06:48:00.000-05:002011-11-04T06:48:35.269-05:00

Thankfully, this is not going to be the worst cold ever.  I am recovering. Enough so that Thursday afternoon I inserted sleeves, sleeve headers, shoulder pads and also hemmed the sleeves and body of the garment. I'm ready to begin the lining.  I was particularly astounded by the sleeve headers.  I've used headers before to add support for puffy sleeves.  I thought for coats you made a choice of

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-68919020404865513432011-11-01T23:16:00.000-05:002011-11-01T23:16:12.359-05:00

My time Monday was somewhat limited.  I was beginning to develop a nasty cold and did not sew at all on Tuesday Nov 1.  but Monday I finished the front facings.  Pressed everything neatly, pinned excessively and then hung on Mimie, my dress form. The Caramel Coat was rather floppy so I thought to add the proposed shoulder pads.  I just slipped them under the coat shoulders and on top of Mimie's

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-25011462922463999422011-11-01T00:24:00.000-05:002011-11-01T00:24:02.089-05:00

Notes From my Sewing on Sunday October 30, 2011 Hey this is good!  I expected to finish the buttonholes and pockets on Sunday.  I'm really pleased I finishedThree 1-1/4"bound buttonholes 2 pockets fully interfaced and lined Back: fused big yoke interfacing and attached to fronts at shoulder Collar fully interfaced, under stitched and attached to coat Front facings interfaced, edge finished,

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-3071810224751803682011-10-31T13:00:00.000-05:002011-10-31T13:00:32.354-05:00

This post is really photo intensive.  You may want to skip it if you have bandwidth problems. I wanted a record of my bound buttonhole procedure.  You see, this Caramel Coat is the first time I've made bound buttonholes in years.  I can't remember the last bound buttonhole I made.  I used to be able to slap my tool on and be done.  Buttonholes averaged about 2.5 minutes apiece. Seriously, I was

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-48686807168546412582011-10-30T13:02:00.000-05:002011-10-30T13:02:06.695-05:00

I realized when I made the above description it would be confusing.  Sure enough, I was asked for more clarification and since the tailored sewing of the Caramel Coat is going slowing, I'll take this opportunity to share about my fleece coat.  As I said, the coat is about 6 years old.  It has a low V neck which calls for something that will cover up my chest and throat. 'Cause, you see, when

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-43106136179967177342011-10-29T09:05:00.000-05:002011-10-29T09:05:00.113-05:00

The black wool is still in limbo status.  I know positively I want to make it.  I know positively that I want to underline it. I know positively that I don't have anything in my stash suitable to underline the black coat; and I know positively it will be 5 more weeks before I'm anywhere near a real fabric store. Black coat is in limbo. I actually like to keep several coats in my closet.  For

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-55841814885836550552011-10-28T09:51:00.016-05:002011-10-28T09:51:01.019-05:00

The Tunic Blouse:  Admittedly, this is an old pattern, I think from 1999.  That would make it at least 13 years old.  The thing is, this is a very classic design which with a few modifications easily fits in with today's styles. I purchased the pattern second-handed "trimmed but all sizes intact".  I assumed that someone had trimmed the tissue but changed their mind about constructing a garment

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-42002206912998737952011-10-27T15:16:00.000-05:002011-10-27T15:16:27.614-05:00

I completed this blouse several weeks ago, but haven't blogged about it because I have mixed feelings. First the good stuff:  as always this CLD pattern is excellently drafted.  Read and follow directions carefully because the finishing techniques shared here are useful everywhere.  Like most other reviewers, I'm particularly impressed with how the hidden buttonhole band snaps into place. 

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-27560948594327709712011-10-22T13:37:00.000-05:002011-10-22T13:37:12.641-05:00

Well, steaming didn't work exactly as expected.  Yes the wool shrunk. However the facings (which were the pieces I was experimenting with) are now misshapen.  So that's not the answer. This morning I pulled out the applique scissors and trimmed the underlining from the back piece.  This left a 1/4" rim all along the outside of serging, underlining and wool.  I think I'm going to recut this

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-90058585597507387592011-10-21T09:30:00.002-05:002011-10-21T13:25:28.017-05:00

This will be a multi-part posting documenting my sewing progress of my winter coat for 2011.  Because I'm retired, I expect to work on it every day or nearly every day and be completed a week to 10 days down the line.  Over the last 12-15 years I've made several coats. All using polar fleece for my fabric. I like polar fleece. It's wonderful to sew.  It feeds easily through both serger and

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-36255126662466956472011-10-20T21:20:00.001-05:002011-10-20T21:30:47.757-05:00

I've started with pattern 109/110 from Burda January 2011.  Looks very simple, especially desirable since I'm using a loosely-woven, 100% wool.  There are very few pattern pieces. A front with attached facing, back, sleeve, upper collar, lower collar and pockets. Should be easy enough.  Except I can't find all the markings I need.  You know, the hash marks showing waistline, or the straight of

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-90941844262134238552011-10-19T11:43:00.000-05:002011-10-19T11:43:02.580-05:00

I've not dropped off the face of earth, nor have I been gone. In fact, I missed two of my planned activities this month due to a thumb infection.  It seems not to be spreading, and there is no fever. But there have been days my thumb looked like a blackberry-- or maybe one of those golden berries--with little pustules budding out all over. Yuk and yes at times painful. BTW, yes I'm under a

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-3479338737694787772011-10-13T09:06:00.023-05:002011-10-13T09:06:00.452-05:00

I desire to totally disassociate today's post with the previous one, if possible.  My point today is: why would this type this pattern not be my first choice when sewing my own clothing?  Why would someone heap praise upon a pattern; heap praise upon a designer and then completely reverse direction; completely disavow what was previously heralded as the promised land (er pants wise). Well lets

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-29316882389346568412011-10-12T18:54:00.000-05:002011-10-12T18:54:46.849-05:00

I'm pleased. I not only finished these, but wore them all day long. They are tremendously comfortable. I need to stop right here and thank the people who insisted Louise's elastic was entirely different and a substantial improvement over any other elastic for sale. They were right. Ummm, they ARE right. This elastic is well worth the cost and effort to acquire. Purchasing in 10 yard rolls makes

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-56446401409078721102011-10-11T14:37:00.000-05:002011-10-11T14:37:43.249-05:00

I finally narrowed my selection of coat pattrns down to this Burda pattern in January 2011 #110.  I was surprised.  I dislike those sleeves with the zippers.  I can see catching those on anything and everything. Snagging things wherever I go.  But I put it in the list and kept it because I wanted a pattern with the fewest possible pieces due to the ravely nature of my wool this length  (I

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-61334918635217980502011-10-10T22:10:00.000-05:002011-10-10T22:10:04.539-05:00

I had the pleasure of wearing the completed dual sized pants all day (46 front with 48 back) today: ... and must confess they are not done.  I hemmed these at 2" and they are still too long. The pant hems touch the floor.  Certain moves drag the hems along stair and floor surfaces. I will rehem, rising the hems another 1/2" after the next laundry.  (I'll also mark the pattern -yet again,,,like

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-5279913067428723062011-10-10T08:38:00.001-05:002011-10-19T21:22:24.933-05:00

I have to confess that I've fallen in love with Nancy Ziemans Trace and Create series of hand bags. I find them very, very easy to modify on-the-fly and create a very different handbag using the same pattern over and over.   Several years ago I was forced into sewing my own handbags.  I'm not a premium shopper i.e. I need to shop in the discount stores like Walmart, Target et al.  At that

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-50627720881961978632011-10-09T13:53:00.000-05:002011-10-09T13:53:00.832-05:00

I should be working on my black wool winter coat.  I want to work on my black winter coat.  I want to work on it now, months before it is needed so that I have no stress or urgency in it's completion.  Last winter working with this very same wool, I was hurried.  I needed the black coat last year; and the fabric raveled horridly; just horridly.  I feel like I chose the wrong pattern from a stand

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-50434878349791977382011-10-07T09:20:00.002-05:002011-10-07T13:23:29.437-05:00

I should be working on my black wool coat or my black silk jacket. But I sidetracked into fitting One-Seams and thereby pants.  Which cycled me back into a project from summer.  I had intended to take Burda 2010 April 143 and morph into an all 'round good basic pant. 143 is drafted as a long pant, with jean style front pockets and a straight waistband. I was particularly pleased that the

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-9330622284811166812011-10-05T19:48:00.000-05:002011-10-05T19:48:50.277-05:00

Did you know IE 10 was available for free download?   OK it is beta format, but nonetheless, Version 10 is available for testing long before the push to adopt IE9 has taken hold.  I didn't upgrade to 8.  Too many people reported problems; and son-of-a-gun my new Netbook and only computer in my house with IE8, has horrible cursor control problems only within IE8. Every other application, my ASUS

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-21175520658630030972011-10-05T14:24:00.000-05:002011-10-05T14:24:02.003-05:00

Last night I realized I hadn't summarized my monthly sewing. This is important to me although sometimes I not sure exactly why. SEPTEMBER SEWING: Tops (blouses, Tshirts etc) 4 Pants 7 Coats/jackets 1 Book Covers 1 Homedec 4 Wadders 1 TOTAL 18 I didn't think I was this productive. I again completed a project every other day or so.  The jacket was not a jacket but my robe from the Of The Moment

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-56094501892133574432011-10-03T09:05:00.003-05:002011-10-03T09:05:00.134-05:00

In the mail yesterday, I received Louise Cuttings special elastic.  I could tell immediately it was like nothing I'd ever used.  Hard to describe it is wider and softer but looks like the usual sports elastic.  I wanted to know if it really made that much of a difference. Photos below are always in this order: Pant with the New Elastic and settled around the natural waist--Pant with old elastic

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5794057769596180692.post-49263723074635900422011-10-02T12:10:00.000-05:002011-10-02T12:10:32.123-05:00

It's the carrying case I just made for this: I've had my little netbook for a couple of weeks now and like DS, I have to say I love it.  I much prefer working inside an OS I understand and can manipulate to work like me. It is a little bigger than the 'Droid. Which is both a downside and a plus.  As a plus, it means I can view the entire width of a web page on the screen. As a downside, it's

sdBevnoreply@blogger.com0