2012 Handmade Clothes Recap

Blue Sewing Machine Illustration by me (gouache + digital)

With Christmas safely tucked behind us, I’ve been reflecting on the past year as we head into 2013. I started this blog in July of 2012 and embarked on my sewing mission in August. In approximately four months, I have sewn 37 items for K (including the polar bear hat). I can’t believe it! I really started getting into the groove in October when I joined in the KCWC fun.

Although I pin my hand-sewn clothes images to one of my boards, I thought it might be fun to look at the monthly breakdown of my creations below – I have some blog re-design plans in the new year for easier navigation and will include a page with all the sewn garments.

I’ll be posting the last outfit of the year on Monday, but want to leave you with this compilation of K’s 2012 handmade wardrobe. Links to the posts for each item are included below.

AUGUST (2 items)
1. Ooh La La Dress
2. Floral Dress (same pattern as Ooh La La Dress)

SEPTEMBER (5 items)
3. Bubblicious Dress
4. Geometric Top
5. Brown & Silver Top (with open back)
6. Brown & Silver Skirt
7. Starry Night Peter Pan Collar Shirt
8. Burgundy Tiered Skirt

OCTOBER (12 items)
9. Gold flowers Sunki Dress
10. Mustard Jacket
11. Grey Polka Dot Skirt
12. Sunki Green leggings
13. Sunki Black+White Striped leggings
14. Stripey Knit Top
15. Mustard Jodhpur Pants
16. Red+White Herringbone Jacket (same pattern as Mustard Jacket)
17. Grey Knickerbockers
18. Boho Dolman Top
19. Sashiko Sailor Collar Pullover
20. Lucky Culotte

NOVEMBER (11 items)
21.  Ikat Dress + Faux leather Peter Pan Collar
22. Boucle Coat
23. Hooded Capelet
24. Grey Almost Skinnies
25. Caramel/Camel Shirtdress
26. Camisole Dress
27. Polar Bear Hat
28. Sweatshirt Re-fashion
29. Aqua Cords
30. Knit Dress with Black/Grey/White Stripes
31. Houndstooth Jacket + Pleather Elbow Patches

DECEMBER (9 items)
32. Plaid Tunic
33. Notched-Collar Knit Shirt
34. Color-Block Jacket
35. Pink Linen Gathered Dress
36. Black+Gold Knit Bolero Jacket
37. Polka Dot Party Dress 
38. Reversible Coat
39. Knit Dress with Bow

I would say that for the most part, K really liked the clothes I made. There were a few duds and some that are consistent favorites. I obviously make things that suit my taste, but I do try to keep K’s preferences in mind too.

Epic fails: the skinny pants (not pictured above. They were simply too tight) and the Boho knit top. The Boho top was just poorly made because I don’t know how to draft patterns. Yet. I will master this one day. She also detested the knickerbockers and refused to wear them after photos were taken.

Loves: the polka dot party dress and all the knit items are in heavy rotation (stripey top, notched collar shirt, black/grey/white stripe dress, leggings). I think I need to beef up on my knit-sewing skills for 2013! She also adores and often wears the Sashiko pullover as well as the grey and aqua cords.

2012 was a phenomenal year for me. I’ve connected with so many amazingly talented and kind folks through my little blog, and I can’t wait to see what the new year will bring. I’ve also learned a lot about myself, developed some new skills and am near bursting with so many ideas to share with you all next year. What are your plans for 2013?

Happy Weekend!

10 thoughts on “2012 Handmade Clothes Recap

  1. I’ve already know how amazingly talented you are, but when I see all your creations all together – in all their splendor – I’m simply. blown. away.
    you rock.
    and I can’t wait to see what 2013 brings!

  2. ps – looking through in greater depth, I can’t even pick a favorite! Seriously, how do you do it? Such productivity, and it’s ALL SO BEAUTIFUL!

    1. Aw, thanks Lucinda! It’s been so fun sharing my sewing projects, and getting such wonderful comments like yours keeps me motivated! When I was a little girl I desperately wanted to be a fashion designer but didn’t have the guts to go that route when it was time for college. I think this is my way of living out my old dreams. That and watching lots of Project Runway :-).

  3. Too bad she doesn’t like the knickerbockers, I think they’re adorable! But do have to agree with her that one of my favorites is the sashiko jacket. The combination of the lines, fabric, and stitching details make it pretty special. It’s a lot of fun to see everything all at once, you definitely have an eye for style! I’m so glad you started a blog and have gotten to know you a little, too. To me, that’s the best part of blogging. Looking forward to your 2013 creations!

    1. The sashiko top is definitely one of my faves too :-). I agree that the best part of blogging is getting to know the people (like you!). It’s been incredibly inspiring!

    1. Thank you, Camille! I have to admit that oftentimes I miniaturize outfits that I want for myself… Less fabric means faster sewing!

  4. Oooh, what a wonderful collection! Multiple outfits I’d love to put on my kids or myself 🙂 Looking forward to your fall-creations!

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