Author: katboulder

Hi! I’m Kitty and I adore fabric. I’m not a great seamstress (I would describe myself as an advanced beginner) but I’m passionate about sewing. As much as I love this creative hobby, I have to admit I have lots of sewing fears: buttonholes and zippers come to mind immediately! I’ve taken a few sewing classes but I learn by repetition so it’s practice makes perfect for me, although really I’d settle for just wearable. I’m trying to learn enough about sewing so I’ll be able to make and wear clothing without being asked “did you make that?”

Finished Projects

Kwik Sew 3766, A Pattern Review

I’ve finally been successful in breaking my sewing slump! I did it with Kwik Sew 3766, a “Kwik Start, Learn-to-Sew” top pattern. The pattern description reads: “Close fitting pull-over tops have self fabric neckbands. View A has a round neckline and full length sleeves. View B has a scoop neckline and short sleeves. Tops are very easy to sew and have special easy-to-follow sewing instructions.” I made the size medium because Kwik Sew, unlike most other commercial sewing patterns, fits true to size. Continue reading “Kwik Sew 3766, A Pattern Review”

katboulderJanuary 30, 2015January 29, 201515 Comments

Refashions

Fifty Shades of Grey Refashion (Minus Forty Seven)

No, I’ve never read “Fifty Shades of Grey”, and I don’t plan on seeing the movie when it opens in theaters on Valentine’s Day. But I’ve been asked so many times if I’ve read the book that the title stuck in my mind when I decided to refashion several pieces of grey clothing. Perhaps because of my thrifty ways, I really enjoy refashioning clothing I no longer wear into something I will wear. And as a contributor to the Refashion Co-op blog, … Continue reading Fifty Shades of Grey Refashion (Minus Forty Seven)

katboulderJanuary 27, 201516 Comments

Finished Projects

Kwik Sew 3567, A Pattern Review

For my third sewing slump buster attempt I chose Kwik Sew 3567. I knew I would love this top! Its contrasting side panels and close fit are flattering for my body type – the close fit makes the most of my small bust and the contrasting side panels lengthen and optically slim my short torso. I was sure this pattern would be successful for me. I searched my fabric stash for two coordinating knits and I made sure to pick STRETCH knits this time! Okay, so what could possibly go wrong? Continue reading “Kwik Sew 3567, A Pattern Review”

katboulderJanuary 25, 2015January 19, 20153 Comments

Challenges, Finished Projects

Kitty’s January Threads Challenge

Originally I was quite excited about Jane’s “I Saw It In Threads Magazine” challenge idea. However, the January challenge proved quite difficult for me! As soon as the theme was announced I flipped through my stack of Threads, purchased from a public library out-of-date magazine sale years ago. With my love of all things vintage, I thought it wouldn’t matter that the projects within were not au courant. I assumed it’d be a no-brainer for me to find a project for the challenge, but no such luck. I did see several interesting ideas while perusing my outdated issues, but for one reason or another, I ended up scrapping all of those possibilities as unworkable. Continue reading “Kitty’s January Threads Challenge”

katboulderJanuary 23, 2015January 22, 20155 Comments

Finished Projects, Reviews

McCall’s 6796, A Pattern Review

For several weeks I’ve been in a terrible sewing slump. My sewing mojo’s been MIA and every project I’ve attempted has turned out badly. So I decided to make some quick and easy winter tops to try to turn the tide. I looked through my pattern stash and pulled out the top patterns that struck me as the easiest to sew. Continue reading “McCall’s 6796, A Pattern Review”

katboulderJanuary 18, 2015January 18, 201515 Comments

Finished Projects, Reviews

2014, My 3 Favorite Refashions And My 3 Least Favorite Garments

I love refashioning! There’s just something so satisfying about taking an unwearable garment and making it cute and wearable. And of course I’m super thrifty, so making something from nothing is a kick for me. In 2014 I had a lot of fun with refashioning, so I’ll definitely be doing more of it in 2015. It was hard for me to pick just 3 favorite … Continue reading 2014, My 3 Favorite Refashions And My 3 Least Favorite Garments

katboulderDecember 27, 2014December 26, 20147 Comments

Finished Projects, Reviews

2014, My 3 Favorite Garments And My 3 Favorite Crafts!

2014 was a banner year for me as far as completing sewing projects. One of the reasons I wanted to be part of a sewing blog was that I knew it would compel me to finish the projects I start. In the past I’ve been much more adept at starting than finishing my sewing projects. Having to post photos on DenverSews has kept me focused on the end result, although I will … Continue reading 2014, My 3 Favorite Garments And My 3 Favorite Crafts!

katboulderDecember 26, 2014December 24, 20148 Comments

Challenges

The “I Saw It In Threads Magazine” Challenge!

We have a fantastic challenge in store for January 2015 at DenverSews! It’s the “I Saw It In Threads Magazine” challenge! The challenge, sewing a project from Threads Magazine, was the brainchild of fellow blogger Jane. Unfortunately, Jane is stepping down as a blogger for DenverSews so I (Kitty) am announcing her idea for our January challenge. I want to thank Jane for her contributions to DenverSews and also express how grateful I am to … Continue reading The “I Saw It In Threads Magazine” Challenge!

katboulderDecember 19, 2014December 18, 20141 Comment

Challenges, Finished Projects

The Vintage Sewing Challenge!

The DenverSews Sewing Challenge for this week is “Vintage”. I asked the DenverSews bloggers to use either a vintage pattern, a new vintage-style pattern, vintage fabric, (or both), or to interpret vintage in their own way. As a lover of all things vintage, I’ve been looking forward to this challenge and to seeing what my sewing friends have created! Continue reading “The Vintage Sewing Challenge!”

katboulderDecember 15, 2014December 17, 20142 Comments

Contests, Finished Projects, Refashions

The Pattern Review Handbag Contest

I consistently use PatternReview.com to check out new sewing patterns and read tips on construction before sewing garments. But the site has numerous features I’ve never fully utilized. Of those, the most intriguing to me are the sewing contests, but I’ve never managed to get any of my projects finished in time to meet the contest entry deadlines. About a week ago I discovered the Pattern Review Handbag Contest. It was running through November 30th and entries had to be sewn between November 1st and November 30th. … Continue reading The Pattern Review Handbag Contest

katboulderNovember 30, 2014December 21, 201413 Comments

Challenges

The December Sewing Challenge!

Thanks Lynne, for a wonderful November challenge. It motivated us to explore stitches on our sewing machines that we’d never tried before! Most of us have sewing machines with so many stitches we’ve never even tested them all. Your November challenge was the perfect opportunity to start expanding our knowledge of our sewing machines amazing capabilities! Now that we’ve gotten a good start on exploring our future possibilities with our sewing machines, it’s time to honor the past. So our December challenge is VINTAGE! The interpretation of … Continue reading The December Sewing Challenge!

katboulderNovember 22, 2014November 23, 20141 Comment

Challenges, Finished Projects

What I Made for Lynne’s Challenge – Kwik Sew 0188

For our second group challenge Lynne chose our theme: “use a sewing machine stitch you’ve never used before”. I decided to try a quilting stitch. I’ve sewn patchwork quilt tops before, but I’ve always had my patchwork quilted by others – I’ve never done my own quilting.

Continue reading “What I Made for Lynne’s Challenge – Kwik Sew 0188”

katboulderNovember 20, 2014November 30, 201414 Comments

Finished Projects, Refashions

3 Shirts to Dress Refashion

Well I failed on my “I’m not buying any new sewing books” pledge. I’d previously vowed not to purchase any more sewing books until I made a project from each of the books I already own. Oops! I recently bought a LOT of new-to-me sewing titles. My favorite is “ReSew – turn thrift-store finds into fabulous designs” by Jenny Wilding Cardon. This book includes 20 easy-enough-for-beginners refashioning projects using thrift store finds. Easy, thrift-stores and sewing? Those are 3 of my favorite things, so this book is perfect for me! Continue reading “3 Shirts to Dress Refashion”

katboulderNovember 14, 2014November 23, 201412 Comments

Finished Projects, Reviews, Tips & Tricks

Kwik Sew 4093 – A Patchwork Purse

Kwik Sew patterns are a favorite of mine. One of my first successful garments was made from a Kwik Sew pattern, and that success, after a string of failures with other pattern lines, inspired me to keep sewing. So during a recent Kwik Sew sale I stocked up on seven of their new 2014 patterns. Kwik Sew doesn’t go on sale as often, and isn’t as deeply discounted, as McCall’s, Simplicity, and Butterick, so … Continue reading Kwik Sew 4093 – A Patchwork Purse

katboulderOctober 31, 2014November 23, 20144 Comments

Challenges, Finished Projects

October Sewing Challenge – New Look 6036

For our first group sewing challenge at DenverSews, Jamie challenged us to use a fabric we’d been holding on to for a long time. Wow, I had so much leeway with this challenge! Almost all of my fabric has been in my stash for a very long time. In order to narrow the field, I focused on making sure the fabric I chose was something I was absolutely terrified to use. For me that meant choosing an expensive fabric which also had sentimental value. Most of my fabric stash consists of cheap thrift store fabrics, and I’m not afraid to use those – if I mess up with thrift store fabric, it can easily be replaced. Continue reading “October Sewing Challenge – New Look 6036”

katboulderOctober 24, 2014November 23, 20149 Comments

Finished Projects, Refashions, Tutorials

Chico’s Blouse Refashion

Volunteering certainly has its perks. Meeting people and making new friends while helping out in my community makes volunteering an enjoyable experience for me. But getting things for free doesn’t hurt either! Last week during my volunteer shift at the Humane Society Thrift & Gift store, my friend Sally noticed that one of the donated blouses had stained sleeves. Sally handed me the top and said “Here, we can’t sell this, but you could cut the sleeves off”. Yup, Sally knows me so well! Since the blouse was from Chico’s, my size, perfect except for the bleached sleeves, and in a color I love, I took it home for refashioning. Continue reading “Chico’s Blouse Refashion”

katboulderOctober 10, 2014November 23, 20141 Comment

Challenges, Finished Projects

Jo-Ann Fabric “Sew Your Style” Contest

About a week ago while looking for Jo-Ann Fabric coupons on line, I stumbled across the Jo-Ann Fabric “Sew Your Style” contest on facebook. I was intrigued, so I read the contest rules. The challenge was to sew a garment using quilt (instead of fashion) fabric. Having recently read about a similar challenge on “Diary of A Sewing Fanatic”, one of my favorite blogs, I knew this endeavor might be difficult. But since I own lots of quilt fabric (even though I haven’t done patchwork in years), and I’m actively working at reducing the size of my fabric stash, I was highly motivated to attempt the challenge. Continue reading “Jo-Ann Fabric “Sew Your Style” Contest”

katboulderOctober 1, 2014November 23, 20143 Comments

Challenges, Finished Projects, Tips & Tricks

Shared Fabric Sewing Challenge #2

Quite some time ago Lynne and I (Kitty) split two different fabrics between us. The fabric Lynne shared with me became a top for each of us. The results of that fabric challenge can be found here. Now it’s time for the second shared fabric swap results to be revealed! The fabric I split with Lynne was a more difficult one to work with than her lovely floral knit. Mine was a bold print … Continue reading Shared Fabric Sewing Challenge #2

katboulderSeptember 29, 2014November 23, 20143 Comments

Challenges, Finished Projects

Copying My Favorite Ready To Wear Garment

The Fabric Mart Fabricistas are currently running their second Fashion Sewing Contest! They’ve included a “play along” flickr page where the sewing public can post photos of their sew-along entries. I decided to give it a whirl! Continue reading “Copying My Favorite Ready To Wear Garment”

katboulderSeptember 24, 2014September 24, 20147 Comments

Finished Projects, Refashions, Reviews

Craftsy Project Upcycle: Kimono Wrap Skirt Refashion

Recently I took advantage of a great sale at Craftsy.com. I purchased the class “Project Upcycle: Thrifty Sewing Projects” with Betz White for only $9.99. I’d already experimented with some of the refashion projects taught in this course like the felted tote, but the class was still well worth the price. Continue reading “Craftsy Project Upcycle: Kimono Wrap Skirt Refashion”

katboulderSeptember 18, 2014September 18, 20148 Comments

Finished Projects, Refashions, Tips & Tricks

A-Z is Complete. What’s Next?

When I got close to the end of the alphabet in my series several friends asked me what I planned to do next for my DenverSews blog projects. Hmm, it’s a good thing that they asked, I’m not a planner – I had no idea! I answered one inquiry with a surly “I’ll sew whatever I want instead of something that starts with a particular letter.” But I honestly had no idea what I wanted to sew – my answer had revealed the truth, I hadn’t thought beyond completing Z. Luckily those questions jump-started my contemplation of this dilemma.

I came up with several ideas for subsequent series. Being a non-planner, a series is a more efficient use of my time, allowing me to spend my time sewing instead of spending my time trying to figure out what to sew for each individual post. And with my giant sewing collection I had lots of different series possibilities to choose from! Continue reading “A-Z is Complete. What’s Next?”

katboulderSeptember 12, 2014September 13, 20143 Comments

Finished Projects, Reviews

Z is for Zebra Print – Simplicity 1541- A Pattern Review

For the last post in my series, the letter Z, I chose to sew a skirt with a zebra print panel from the Simplicity Amazing Fit Collection. My pattern is Simplicity # 0503, a Misses’ and Miss Petite skirt in 3 lengths, with individual pattern pieces given for slim, average and curvy fit. I made view C, the above the knee-length version, in the curvy fit size 14. Continue reading “Z is for Zebra Print – Simplicity 1541- A Pattern Review”

katboulderSeptember 5, 2014September 2, 20146 Comments

Finished Projects, Tips & Tricks

The Tie-On Dress Hawaiian Style

My husband and I’ve were recently invited to a party to celebrate the elopement of some dear friends. The happy couple wed in Hawaii last December and then planned a Hawaiian style dinner party in Colorado for their friends. The outdoor event became a summer bash because Colorado in winter, while beautiful, really doesn’t instill that tropical feeling. Continue reading “The Tie-On Dress Hawaiian Style”

katboulderAugust 29, 2014August 25, 20146 Comments

Finished Projects, Reviews

Y is for You Sew Girl! Patterns

For the 25th post in my series, the letter Y, I’ve chosen a “You Sew Girl!” pattern, the A-Line Skirt. This 2011 pattern is from Australian designer Nicole Mallalieu. Nicole Mallalieu began her pattern drafting career as a handbag and hat designer, but once she ventured into garments her A-Line Skirt also garnered excellent reviews on PatternReview. Although I already have several A-Line skirt patterns, when I read “the skirt is a great … Continue reading Y is for You Sew Girl! Patterns

katboulderAugust 22, 2014August 22, 20143 Comments

Finished Projects, Reviews, Tutorials

X is for X-back Top: McCall’s 6751 – A Pattern Review

For the 24th post in my series, the letter X, I made McCall’s 6751, a summer top with a cool X-back design. Continue reading “X is for X-back Top: McCall’s 6751 – A Pattern Review”

katboulderAugust 15, 2014August 13, 20146 Comments

Finished Projects, Reviews

W is for Wrap Dress – Butterick 3485 – A Pattern Review

For the 23rd post in my series, the letter W, I made a Wrap Dress from a vintage 1994 pattern, Butterick 3485. 3485 has been in my stash for quite awhile – I purchased it for 30 cents at a thrift store in Arizona at least 5 years ago. This pattern is rated Very Easy and I totally agree with that assessment. The only closures it has are ties, and with only 4 pattern pieces, what could be easier?

Continue reading “W is for Wrap Dress – Butterick 3485 – A Pattern Review”

katboulderAugust 8, 2014August 8, 201413 Comments

Finished Projects, Reviews

V is for Vogue 1247 – A Pattern Review – AKA: My Vogue Curse

For the 22nd post in my series, the letter V, I chose to sew Vogue 1247. This pattern is a Rachel Comey design that had tons of favorable reviews in 2011 when the pattern was first issued. The pattern is a skirt and top, and the skirt, “a semi-fitted A-line with front in-seam pockets” quickly became a favorite with the blogosphere sewing community. Continue reading “V is for Vogue 1247 – A Pattern Review – AKA: My Vogue Curse”

katboulderAugust 1, 2014July 31, 201410 Comments

Finished Projects, Refashions

Combining Quilting and Clothing Refashion

As I’ve mentioned in previous posts, I used to sew quilts. I enjoy the repetitive quality of patchwork. Sewing patchwork is a zen experience for me, but I don’t have the patience anymore to finish an entire quilt top. I’m also terrible at the quilting part and I’ve discovered it’s quite costly to have the quilting done professionally. I’ve tried making small quilted wall hangings instead, but since I’ve never displayed any of them, sewing more wall quilts seems pretty pointless. Continue reading “Combining Quilting and Clothing Refashion”

katboulderJuly 25, 2014July 24, 20142 Comments

Finished Projects, Reviews, Tutorials

U is for Underwear – Jalie 2568 Pattern Review

For the 21st post in my series, the letter U, I decided to make underwear. (Believe me, there’s not much choice when it comes to items to sew that start with U!) Although I’d never attempted to sew panties before I had two underwear patterns in my stash, Jalie 2568 and McCall’s 5651. Jalie 2568 had 100% positive reviews on PatternReview, so I chose the Jalie pattern. Continue reading “U is for Underwear – Jalie 2568 Pattern Review”

katboulderJuly 18, 2014July 17, 20143 Comments

Finished Projects, Reviews

T is for TieOn! Dress: Butterick 5482 – A Pattern Review

For the 20th post in my series, the letter T, I made the “Tie-On!” sundress.I needed a sundress to wear to my June “Sew ‘N Sudz” meeting. The Sew ‘N Sudz meetup group was created by lovely Tish of HISS Studio to provide an opportunity for home sewers to showcase their handmade garments. As a retiree I wear jeans almost every day, so this group is an excellent incentive for me to leave my comfort zone and dress creatively, if only once a month. Continue reading “T is for TieOn! Dress: Butterick 5482 – A Pattern Review”

katboulderJuly 4, 2014September 15, 20149 Comments

Finished Projects, Refashions, Tutorials

Ombre Dip Dye Dust Ruffle Skirt Refashion

This refashion started out as a white dust ruffle generously given to me by my dear friend Sally, whom I met volunteering at the Boulder Humane Society Thrift & Gift store. Sally gifted me with 2 identical panels, so I had 232 inches of 19″ wide 100% cotton fabric to work with. The dust ruffle conveniently already had a rod pocket sewn at the top which made me suspect these might be window valances made to coordinate with bed dust ruffles. Whatever they were, they could not have been more perfect for a skirt makeover! Continue reading “Ombre Dip Dye Dust Ruffle Skirt Refashion”

katboulderJune 27, 2014June 22, 20145 Comments

Finished Projects, Refashions, Reviews

S is for Simplicity 7499 – A Pattern Review

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For the 19th post in my series, the letter S, I’ve sewn a Simplicity pattern, #7499.
I had A MULTITUDE of Simplicity patterns to choose from in my pattern stash. Judging from the number of Simplicity UFOs (unfinished objects) I have stored in my attic, apparently Simplicity was once my favorite pattern company. I’m actually embarrassed to admit to my UFO count.
Let’s just say it’s a good thing my attic is quite large. Continue reading “S is for Simplicity 7499 – A Pattern Review”

katboulderJune 20, 2014June 23, 201412 Comments

Finished Projects

R is for Renfrew – A Pattern Review

For the 18th post in my series, the letter R, I decided to sew the Renfrew top from Sewaholic Patterns. Sewaholic Patterns is the brainchild of Tasia, a pattern maker and sewing blogger based in Vancouver, Canada. Tasia specializes in designing patterns specifically to fit pear-shaped women, who would need to combine sizes in order to acheive a good fit with most commercial dress patterns. The 15 Sewaholic Patterns are unique – they are drafted for a B cup bust, wider hips, more muscular thighs, and a height of 5’4″. Continue reading “R is for Renfrew – A Pattern Review”

katboulderJune 14, 20144 Comments

Finished Projects

Q is for Quilt

For the 17th post in my series, the letter Q, I decided to complete my unfinished quilt. About 10 years ago (when I was making quilt tops rather than garments) I signed up for a quilt class at a Chicago sewing studio. After struggling through sewing two quilt tops on my own, I hoped that the class would help me improve my patchwork technique. The students had their choice of two designs: a log cabin quilt or the Amy Butler Charm quilt. Since my first quilt was in the log cabin style, I chose to make the appliqued Amy Butler Charm quilt. The pattern for the Amy Butler Charm quilt was just a grouping of simple patchwork rectangles with “football” shapes appliqued on top. I knew the rectangles wouldn’t be difficult to cut or sew, and hopefully the instructor could teach me the art of applique, something I’d never tried before, but was eager to learn. Continue reading “Q is for Quilt”

katboulderJune 6, 2014September 25, 20146 Comments

Finished Projects

P is for Pattern Scissors Cloth: Free Downloadable Pattern

For the 16th post in my series, the letter P, I chose to sew a pattern I found on the New Zealand blog “Pattern Scissors Cloth”. The Ruby Slip, posted on 12/10/11, is available as a free downloadable pattern. Sherry, the blogger behind Pattern Scissors Cloth, also hosted a sew-along for the pattern on 12/12/11.
Continue reading “P is for Pattern Scissors Cloth: Free Downloadable Pattern”

katboulderMay 30, 2014May 29, 20146 Comments

Finished Projects, Refashions, Reviews

Making Vintage Bags Purse Project

PicMonkey Collage
For my 2nd post in my quest to sew at least one project from every sewing book I own, I’ve sewn another purse. I didn’t have a choice as to what to sew this time – the book I used is “Making Vintage Bags” by Emma Brennan. “Making Vintage Bags” was published in 2007 and contains instructions and patterns to create 20 original purses. This handbag sewing book is unique because the purses are vintage-inspired. The styles are reminiscent of bags from the 1920s through the 1950s, with 5 patterns representing each decade. Continue reading “Making Vintage Bags Purse Project”

katboulderMay 23, 2014June 22, 20143 Comments

Finished Projects

O is for OTTOBRE design

For the 15th post in my series, the letter O, I chose an Ottobre design pattern. Ottobre design is a Finnish sewing magazine, with traceable patterns included in each issue. The magazine is printed in Finnish, English, German, French, Dutch, and Swedish. They also publish a separate children’s pattern magazine. Ottobre is available as a subscription here. I don’t actually have a subscription to Ottobre though, fellow Denver Sews blogger Jamie gave me the Autumn/Winter 2013 issue at a Denver Sewing Collective meet-up. Thanks Jamie!

Continue reading “O is for OTTOBRE design”

katboulderMay 17, 20143 Comments

Finished Projects

N is for New Look 6598

For the letter N, the 14th post in my series, I used New Look pattern 6598. I don’t think I’ve ever sewn a New Look pattern that ended up fitting me, probably because I used to sew the size that matched my measurements. I’ve now learned to sew one size smaller when using commercial patterns. In fact 6598 wasn’t a pattern I wanted to purchase or sew. Because of my fear of sewing buttonholes and zippers I usually choose knit pullover tops. And 6598 is a blouse – with buttonholes! So how did I wind up using New Look 6598 for my N project? Continue reading “N is for New Look 6598”

katboulderMay 10, 2014September 19, 20144 Comments

Finished Projects

M is for McCall’s 6074

M is for McCall's front

For my 18th post, the letter M, I chose to sew McCall’s 6074. This pattern includes 3 lengths of sleeveless or cap-sleeved deep V-neckline knit pull-over dresses.

I really like this dress style. The elastic below the bust gives the dress shape – it’s body conscious but doesn’t cling in any of the wrong places. I can see why it has 18 favorable reviews on Pattern Review. It’s easy to sew (no zippers or buttonholes!) and would be a great pattern for a beginning sewer to make, just like 9 of the 18 pattern reviewers stated. Of the remaining 9 reviews, 6 reviewers rated this pattern as highly recommended, 2 said they would recommend it with modifications, and 1 said it’s a great wardrobe builder. Continue reading “M is for McCall’s 6074”

katboulderMay 3, 2014May 2, 20145 Comments

Finished Projects, Refashions, Reviews

How to Make a Purse from Old Denim Jeans

Jeans Purse Refashion watermarked

I’ve been trying to limit myself to sewing with fabrics and patterns I already own instead of adding more to my collections. For support in accomplishing this goal I joined a Facebook group called Stashbusting Sewalong 2014. Stashbusting Sewalong members dedicate themselves to sewing from their current fabric stashes rather than buying new fabrics. A worthy goal, and one I’m seriously working on. But recently I realized that in addition to my fabric and pattern hoards I have another guilty stash secret: my sewing books! So I’m also pledging to quit using my sewing books just as dust collectors. I’m going to sew at least one project from each of the sewing books I already own before I buy any additional sewing books. Continue reading “How to Make a Purse from Old Denim Jeans”

katboulderApril 26, 2014April 27, 20143 Comments

Finished Projects

L is for Leather aka: The Medieval Times Dress

L collage cropped watermarked

For my 12th Sew All 26 160 post, the letter “L”, I’m sewing with leather, something I’ve never tried before. Simplicity 2584 (designed by Cynthia Rowley) had been in my pattern stash for awhile – long enough that it’s now out of print. 2584 includes 2 dress styles, 2 tunic styles, and a headband. I decided to sew the view B dress, mainly because I thought I could use a free to me thrift store leather skirt for the ornately shaped yoke. Style B is the dress shown on the model on the pattern cover. It’s hemmed above-the-knee and has 3/4 length sleeves. Continue reading “L is for Leather aka: The Medieval Times Dress”

katboulderApril 19, 2014April 13, 20145 Comments

Finished Projects

K is for Kwik-Sew

K project collage watermarked

For my 11th post, the letter K, I used Kwik Sew pattern #3533. 3533 is a kimono style stretch knit dress or tunic with a V-neckline and an inset waist with back ties. The pattern envelope shows the dress with short sleeves and the tunic with 3/4 length sleeves. Continue reading “K is for Kwik-Sew”

katboulderApril 12, 2014April 17, 20148 Comments

Finished Projects, Refashions

Shirt to Skirt Refashion

Gant Shirt to Skirt Refashion

The skirt above started out as the classic men’s oxford below.

Gant Collage Watermarked
This shirt was free to me, it was rejected for sale at the thrift shop where I volunteer due to a frayed collar and cuffs. The shirt is made by Gant and retailed for $135.00 when new. It’s very well made and although I’ve never heard of Gant before, I will look for this brand in the future because of it’s excellent quality. Even though this shirt must have been worn often in order to have a frayed collar and cuffs, it was in excellent condition otherwise. Continue reading “Shirt to Skirt Refashion”

katboulderApril 5, 2014April 17, 20143 Comments

Finished Projects

J is for Jalie 2682

For my 10th Sew All 26 160 project “J”, I chose to sew a Jalie pattern. Jalie is a Mother-Daughter owned company based near Quebec City, Canada. Their patterns are very body conscious and true to size. Jalie patterns are fit on people instead of mannequins, and perhaps that’s why Jalie fits “real” people so well. (Or it could be because the company originally made swimwear patterns). Jalie designs their patterns to be sewn on home sewing rather than industrial machines, and refines their instructions to be as simple as possible. Continue reading “J is for Jalie 2682”

katboulderMarch 29, 2014March 29, 20146 Comments

Finished Projects, Reviews

Craftsy Sew Better, Sew Faster Review – I is for Islander

Island Jacket Collage Watermarked
This jacket is from Islander Sewing Systems and it’s my Sew All 26 160 “I” project. The pattern is Jacket Express #218 and it was designed by Janet Pray. There’s also a great craftsy class on the construction of this jacket called “Sew Better, Sew Faster: Garment Industry Secrets with Janet Pray”. You can order the jacket pattern here for $22.95 plus shipping, but if you wait for a craftsy class sale you might be able to get the deal I got: the pattern (including shipping) and the craftsy class for only $19.99. A super deal IMO! Continue reading “Craftsy Sew Better, Sew Faster Review – I is for Islander”

katboulderMarch 23, 2014March 20, 201413 Comments

Finished Projects

H is for Hibiscus Patterns

H Project Collage Watermarked

For my 8th Sew All 26 160 post, the letter “H”, I chose this Hibiscus Pattern. Hibiscus Pattern Envelope I bought this 1998 pattern for 50 cents at a thrift shop recently. Hibiscus could be a prototype for all the independent sewing pattern companies we are blessed with now. But as far as I can discern Hibiscus Patterns are no longer produced, which is a shame. The pattern is timeless, very nicely drafted, has great instructions, and fits extremely well. Continue reading “H is for Hibiscus Patterns”

katboulderMarch 16, 2014March 14, 201416 Comments

Finished Projects

G is for Grainline Studio: How to Use A Scarf as The Scout Tee

G Collage watermarked

For my 7th Sew All 26 160 project, “G”, I chose a pattern from Grainline Studio, the Scout Woven Tee. This pattern is available as a download, which was a big plus for me. I intended my G project to be the Go Patterns Sleeveless Dress, but the Go dress proved to be more involved than I expected and I needed to find another G project fast! It probably didn’t help that I sewed my G, H, and I projects in reverse order, giving me the least amount of time to complete the project I’d be posting first. Hmmm, whose dumb idea was that? Continue reading “G is for Grainline Studio: How to Use A Scarf as The Scout Tee”

katboulderMarch 8, 2014September 11, 201412 Comments

Finished Projects

Bag Refashions

Our environment is important to me – that’s one of the reasons I shop at thrift stores and recycle. Now that I live in Boulder, Colorado I’m trying to be even more environmentally conscious, especially since Boulder instituted a shopping bag fee. This small fee (10 cents per bag) has really helped me remember to bring my own bags when I grocery shop. (See – being thrifty helps the environment – hurrah!) Continue reading “Bag Refashions”

katboulderFebruary 26, 2014November 23, 201424 Comments

Finished Projects, Reviews

F is for Felted

heartfelt tote, e-how mittens 011

The bag above is my 6th project for Sew All 26 160 , “F” is for Felted. Felting is the process of applying heat, moisture and friction to cause wool (and some other natural fibers) to bind tightly together to create a felted fabric. After felting the fibers are fused and will not ravel. Continue reading “F is for Felted”