As part of my de-stressing initiative, I've decided to post clothes I've sewn for myself every other week instead of every week. I'm not above admitting that it just got...nutty. So, this week we're skipping an outfit, and talking about plans because that's what I do in January. Plan, plan, plan, make lists, plan, agonize over lists, plan. Above is one of the books I got for Christmas (thank you generous relatives - I purchased several Japanese sewing books with my holiday funds!) and I'm ... Read more
Japanese Pattern Books – Part 2
Many months ago, I posted a round-up of my japanese pattern books for kids. It's proven to be very helpful for me to have it listed in one place, and I have to include a few more books I've added to my library since then. I've made a lot of clothes for K from these books, but I still have so many more patterns to try! For today, I thought it would be fun to list the Japanese pattern/sewing books I own for adults. I don't have nearly as many -- just four, if I don't count the Simple Modern ... Read more
Stashaholic
This here is but a minuscule fraction of the fabric I have - my go-to linen and linen-blend stash. I wish it always looked this lovely... I spent a good part of last weekend trying to re-organize them into categories like "My Fall clothes", "K's Fall clothes", "Home Decor", etc. I have cotton, linen, voile, velvet, fleece, rayon, knits (so much knits), canvas, denim, corduroy, wool, muslin, silk, and all manners of blends and mystery fabrics. My sewing room usually looks more like ... Read more
Happy Friday + Randomness + Giveaway Winner
Happy Friday! Have I told you that pretty packaging makes me weak at the knees? I'm one of those annoying people who will decant detergent from its original ugly jug into a much more visually pleasing glass container. So yes, beautiful products and well-designed packaging will always captivate me. Case in point: these Merchant & Mills sewing paraphernalia are right up my alley with their minimalistic and simple, yet graphic look. The vintage touch is also pulling at my heart strings. In ... Read more
Sewing for Me: Coral Stripes, Lace + Geometric
A couple of days ago, I made a muslin for a pair of sailor pants, and it was huge. And after reading through the directions, I realized that it would take more time than I have available, so I made a couple more knit tops instead. It was a good move, because I love them so much. Let's talk about the kimono top first. I made this in a black stripey jersey knit a few years ago, and mentioned its dismal craftsmanship here. Despite the seams falling apart, I wear the black top frequently and ... Read more