tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-84377093224956699802024-02-19T10:15:06.381-05:00b4 the doorSew chic!b4thedoor.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04585273703193652078noreply@blogger.comBlogger77125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8437709322495669980.post-1276478580611450522010-09-01T22:07:00.001-04:002010-09-01T22:07:00.038-04:00To go with what you sew: Cynthia Rowley editionCR has some really neat patterns! Her frocks are so adorable and chic, Simplicity should be really be happy to have her around! But if you didn't know it, she's creating a unique empire of out of the box necessities. Summer is basically over, but these wedges caught my eye:<br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/09/01/2287.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/09/01/s_2287.jpg' border='0' width='175' height='225' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/09/01/2288.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/09/01/s_2288.jpg' border='0' width='175' height='225' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Need a cute dress idea? I really like this dress, and the front flap is such a great idea + the border! Insane! Although black, brown, or gold might work better as a border color when the weather transitions. Buy the clutch or sew the clutch? There's a pattern for that too!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/09/01/2289.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/09/01/s_2289.jpg' border='0' width='555' height='416' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />But wait there's more! Pretty tools with an HLT basic gift ettitque clause: Ok to buy for yourself, never ok for a that's it here's your gift unless explicitly expressed:<br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/09/01/2290.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/09/01/s_2290.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Wow! diapers! A pretty addition to any baby shower gift basket, especially if there's an outfit to match!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/09/01/2291.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/09/01/s_2291.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />More fabulousness from CR at:<br /><a href="http://www.cynthiarowley.com/" target="_blank">Check out her website for all the details and Fall 2010 stuff!</a><br /><br /><br />That's all readers!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/09/01/2292.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/09/01/s_2292.jpg' border='0' width='74' height='26' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad<br />b4thedoor.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04585273703193652078noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8437709322495669980.post-13948692836574582262010-08-29T21:53:00.001-04:002010-08-29T21:53:38.485-04:00Black & White on the Red CarpetHello readers! What a week it's been! I'm halfway thru a dress that I won't be able to finish until next week, unfortunately! But I'm putting the finishing touches on my early fall wardrobe plans. A nice mix of new pieces and older pieces! Anyway, I'm looking forward to more dinners, birthday parties and family gatherings this weekend. I'll be lucky to finish anything new, but I'll show you what I'm wearing!<br /><br />It's amazing the amount of time these shows take, from beginning to end. I've only seen snippets, but a certain trend caught my eye. Don't get me wrong, I'm loving the bright colors, and there was one print that did make me swoon, but these stood out:<br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/29/2867.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/29/s_2867.jpg' border='0' width='114' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/29/2868.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/29/s_2868.jpg' border='0' width='117' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/29/2869.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/29/s_2869.jpg' border='0' width='134' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/29/2870.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/29/s_2870.jpg' border='0' width='93' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/29/2871.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/29/s_2871.jpg' border='0' width='152' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/29/2872.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/29/s_2872.jpg' border='0' width='125' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/29/2873.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/29/s_2873.jpg' border='0' width='110' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/29/2874.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/29/s_2874.jpg' border='0' width='172' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br />That's all!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/29/2875.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/29/s_2875.jpg' border='0' width='74' height='26' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad<br />b4thedoor.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04585273703193652078noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8437709322495669980.post-26740778721344535542010-08-23T06:01:00.000-04:002010-08-23T06:01:01.070-04:00This might entice you, McCalls pattern sale!Readers, I received this email very early today! If you're a BMV member this is the Vogue sale for you!, especially if you shop before noon.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/23/216.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/23/s_216.jpg' border='0' width='240' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />But that's not all, it's probably a good time for me come a member, that's on sale too! I'm very tempted to bite on this low risk deal. For my own cost analysis, I'll need to but at least 10 Vogue patterns on sale per year, and I do hope I can get a deal on some great OOPs! So this could happen!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/23/218.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/23/s_218.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='179' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />They also rolled out their winter patterns early for McCalls, but I don't think I'll fall for these quite yet... FYI-There's a lot of shoulder power. These are my top 6!<br /><br />M6201, Made-for-you<br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/23/219.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/23/s_219.jpg' border='0' width='266' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/23/220.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/23/s_220.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='243' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br />M6200<br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/23/221.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/23/s_221.jpg' border='0' width='266' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/23/222.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/23/s_222.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='119' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />M6202, Laura Ashley blouse<br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/23/224.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/23/s_224.jpg' border='0' width='266' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/23/225.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/23/s_225.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='222' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />M6208, sweater cardigan<br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/23/226.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/23/s_226.jpg' border='0' width='266' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/23/227.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/23/s_227.jpg' border='0' width='217' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />M6206 jacket<br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/23/228.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/23/s_228.jpg' border='0' width='266' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/23/229.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/23/s_229.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='92' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />M6211, Palmer Pletsch<br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/23/230.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/23/s_230.jpg' border='0' width='266' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/23/231.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/23/s_231.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='231' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /> I do hope I get some sewing done this week! That's all!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/23/232.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/23/s_232.jpg' border='0' width='74' height='26' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad<br />b4thedoor.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04585273703193652078noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8437709322495669980.post-33429280789565118782010-08-18T18:20:00.000-04:002010-08-18T18:20:00.764-04:00MSG & Anna SuiI've missed the whole season...But that's ok...I was busy!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/18/1887.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/18/s_1887.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='89' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Season finale on the...<br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/18/1888.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/18/s_1888.jpg' border='0' width='225' height='103' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />10 pm today!<br /><br />From their website:<br />MAN SHOPS GLOBE<br /><br />Claiming he has the "greatest job in the world," Keith Johnson invites viewers along on an international treasure hunt on the Sundance Channel original series, MAN SHOPS GLOBE. In out-of-the-way antique shops, private dealerships and craft stalls, Johnson looks for one-of-a-kind home furnishings and accessories. <br /><br />In each half-hour program, Keith travels to a new country in search of fantastic and unusual decorative objects, furniture, and textiles. He also seeks out the world's best artists and crafts people. MAN SHOPS GLOBE follows Johnson, who travels six months of the year, to ends-of-the-earth excursions, from flea markets in Paris to remote villages in India and obscure art studios in Turkey.(Mr. Johnson is employed by Anthropologie, as far as I know.)<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/18/1889.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/18/s_1889.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Readers, I'm setting the DVR again! But this time I'm very interested to hear the Anna Sui perspective on things (she is on the finale show!). She has done some great patterns with Vogue over the years (like my sweet ruffle blouse), so I'm curious to see what her other domestic interest are! In case you didn't know!<br /><br />That's all!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/18/1890.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/18/s_1890.jpg' border='0' width='74' height='26' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad<br />b4thedoor.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04585273703193652078noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8437709322495669980.post-56066322980809462572010-08-17T20:55:00.000-04:002010-08-18T07:52:49.482-04:00Blood, Sweat & T-shirts: an inside look where cheap clothing comes from.From the Planet Green Network....<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/17/2017.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/17/s_2017.jpg' border='0' width='333' height='217' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />These are the kids on the show!<br /><br />Readers, I got lucky and found a little cable gem! It's a story of six UK kids that love to shop for cheap clothing, then travel to India and get a rewind experience of where the garments come from. Spoiled to the core, this docu-reality series leads them through the sweatshop way of living in India.<br /><br />PAUSE<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/17/2018.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/17/s_2018.jpg' border='0' width='201' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br />I had to do a mental closet check of where I shop. For most collage students and kids in their early 20s love to shop at that popular forever store for clothing, I know I did. And honestly, I'll still hunt there for belts especially, because they actually fit me. Now I shop as high quality as I can afford. But what if it comes from the same place?<br /><br />PLAY<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/17/2019.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/17/s_2019.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='187' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br />The Indian tailors get paid about 10 cents for garments that sell for 15-20 dollars. In one particular episode the youth sleep in a sweatshop and must complete a quotient of garments for the day. They make the kids (self centered ones from the UK) sew! It's cute to see them struggle on the machines!<br /><br />PAUSE<br /><br />I want an industrial sewing machine!<br /><br />PLAY<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/17/2020.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/17/s_2020.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='183' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br />Once they are finished, they must present their garments for inspection. After bringing in the bag of blouses the youth understand how much hard work goes into each piece, over and over, so thousands of people in another country can wear the same blouse. Out of their goal of 36, only 15 were completed correctly. The average wage for the tailors is 5 pounds for 400 garments!<br /><br />PAUSE<br /><br />It's a bit reality show but with a heavier dose of reality than show, but very watchable with a dash of ignorance. Maybe after sewing consistently for a couple of years, I've come to appreciate my skills, but I'm not doing 400 garments per year either!<br /><br />Another thought favorite readers, where does our cheap fabric come from? I often take a quick iPhone pic of the fabric label for my records and I don't recall seeing where the fabric was made. Are we sewing ourselves into an un-green situation?<br /><br />This show airs at various times, so check your listings! I recommend at least 1 episode to jet the gist. Their are 4 one hour shows. I do hope that you can watch at least 1 episode.<br /><br />I'd really love to hear your thought and insight!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/17/2021.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/17/s_2021.jpg' border='0' width='74' height='26' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /> - Posted using BlogPress from my iPad<br /><br /><br />b4thedoor.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04585273703193652078noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8437709322495669980.post-5867415853854167542010-08-16T23:59:00.000-04:002010-08-17T00:01:03.300-04:00Dress Update: HLT pattern 103, Distorted Plank dressHere she is so far!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/16/2647.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/16/s_2647.jpg' border='0' width='136' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br />First, I'd like to say that my form and I don't share the same bust size, and I did not pull out the strapless for the photo. To tired. I'm pretty much finished with the front piece. At the bust line there are 3 pleats that are stitched closed until the high waist line. My plan is to edge stitch the pleats so they hold a crisp line, but still add a little movement. You can see my pins still holding them in place.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/16/2648.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/16/s_2648.jpg' border='0' width='226' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br />I added non-symmetric horizontal and vertical bust darts. They aren't symmetric because of the diagonal pleats at the bustline but they work. <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/16/2649.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/16/s_2649.jpg' border='0' width='167' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br />This is the lower front portion of the dress.<br /><br />So my goal with this fabric was to attempt to distort the lines with pleats and darts. I've mostly achieved that in the front, but the back panel...with the curves and all...I have more work to do, as I don't want 2 stereotypical back darts. My idea of diagonal darts, does pose an interesting situation of bias-ness that's not usually encountered.<br /><br />I started this project wanting a jumpstart back into sewing, and it's done the trick! For those of you wondering. I've used no books for the drape/draft of this project. That may be very obvi to some! Just an idea and my experience. It's an unknown adventure, without a pretty picture to guide me, I'm making it work as I go!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/16/2656.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/16/s_2656.jpg' border='0' width='74' height='26' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /> <br /><br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad<br />b4thedoor.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04585273703193652078noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8437709322495669980.post-25305991015305101312010-08-15T23:14:00.000-04:002010-08-15T23:14:00.237-04:00Look Ma, No Pattern!<br /><br /><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/15/2542.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/15/s_2542.jpg' border='0' width='111' height='148' align='right' style='margin:5px'></a><br />Ok, readers! I've made some head way with the black and cream print! Surprisingly,I'm draping and it's going pretty well, considering I have absolutely no training in doing so! The shape is quite straight forward with a hint of detail, nothing to complicated. So at some point tomorrow I'll show you my progress, finished or not. Thanks for stopping by!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/15/2543.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/15/s_2543.jpg' border='0' width='74' height='26' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad<br />b4thedoor.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04585273703193652078noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8437709322495669980.post-45426331320962016372010-08-15T11:08:00.000-04:002010-08-15T11:08:00.439-04:00Another Microwave Sunday! And Museum Photos!Except this time I have no idea what's going to come out!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/15/975.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/15/s_975.jpg' border='0' width='444' height='333' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />I'd like to sew up some summer fabric, especially since it's still steaming hot around here. And I'd hate to make the fabric wait till next year.... But lately, it's been really difficult to make up my mind; Thai or Indian, curly or straight, Bare Essentials or Lancome, flip-flops or ballet flats, cotton or rayon Lycra, Draft it myself or Vogue it?! It's giving me a headache!<br /><br />So I'm going into my space today feeling optimistic and indecisive! Due to my travels I haven't sewed a thing since V1190! Sad. And I'm feeling a bit out of sync. Post hiatus, I like to do a warm up tank top or cardigan. Maybe that's where I'll start, but I'm also feeling like a dress...long or short? Who knows?<br /><br />Well, while in NYC I did a bit of American couture browsing at Oscar de la Renta. Readers, I wasn't picking anything up for my next event, just visiting one of my favorite artist work in a simply stated gallery, museum like, except touching is allowed. Little did I know that DH was photographing me while I was swooned and sugar plums danced in my head! Inspiring!<br /><br /> <br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/15/976.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/15/s_976.jpg' border='0' width='333' height='249' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/15/978.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/15/s_978.jpg' border='0' width='333' height='294' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/15/979.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/15/s_979.jpg' border='0' width='333' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />There are no simple dresses here. Every item had thousands of details. Embroidery so finely done it looks like a print. Beadwork so finely finished, fabrics from the finest mills. This was way better than the MET, for me!<br /><br />Until later!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/15/980.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/15/s_980.jpg' border='0' width='74' height='26' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /> <br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad<br />b4thedoor.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04585273703193652078noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8437709322495669980.post-7363774813351704802010-08-11T04:55:00.001-04:002010-08-11T04:55:00.179-04:00Vintage UNI-PRESSBOARDGifted!<br />
<br />
<center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/11/139.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/11/s_139.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='140' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />
Verbatim in print:<br />
<br />
Combines: <br />
Sleeve board<br />
Point presser<br />
Edge presser<br />
Ham<br />
Clapper<br />
-into one super-useful space saving UNIT<br />
<br />
Edge pressed and seam board:<br />
For ease in using the seam press area, place the board on it's side. An outstanding feature is the rounded edge along the seam presser area which eliminates seam line from forming indentations on a garment while seams are being pressed open<br />
<br />
<br />
<center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/11/140.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/11/s_140.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />
Pressing Block or Clapper:<br />
The bottom of the entire board has been sanded with smooth rounded edges to form a pressing block. When the bottom is used as a clapper the rounded edges keep sharp pounding marks from appearing on the finished garment. Use the narrow sleeveboard as a convenient hand-hold while pounding.<br />
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Point presser:<br />
The seam presser section is sharply tapered to a point. Press collar, pocket and lapel seam points open over this section to get a neat, perfect point.<br />
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Pressing ham:<br />
The gentle taper and added padding at the large end of the board forms a convenient pressing ham. Darts, undercollars and other areas may be shaped over the ham sections where a separate ham or press mitt was formerly needed. <br />
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<center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/11/143.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/11/s_143.jpg' border='0' width='275' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />
Sleeve board:<br />
The padded top forms a sleeve board. The rounded edges of he board avoid marks appearing on the finished garment.<br />
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This is what I use for most of my tailoring. It was gifted from my mother about 1 year ago and I really use it frequently. I think she purchased it in the mid-70s so it carries a nice patina. I need to make a new cover for it soon, I didn't photograph that, but it's made of a thick cotton knit, same color. I've never used the point turner as it's lost it's point, but I'm starting to use the bottom as a clapper. I probably should sand it a bit too.<br />
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This UNI was made by a lady in Indiana. I've not been able to contact her or find and information about the board on the net. Do you have a vintage UNI-PRESSBOARD? What are you using?<br />
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Thanks for reading!!<br />
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- Posted using BlogPress from my iPadb4thedoor.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04585273703193652078noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8437709322495669980.post-48390709456168133312010-08-09T14:04:00.000-04:002010-08-09T14:04:39.015-04:00Ignored, Seamingly<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy6SJVl8ag19-iGcmzks8tEOKF9bZj8FjRwM70a0iPtIhLRsuJyCtZf_7S4E0LGTfrqx61Gue700Q8EeS2Y9qDLer8sApaa3pGcCzVQ_Pa5oPe-prCgboRVKbZCOmFuESodpZuCfmRDQo/s1600/photo+5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" bx="true" height="100" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy6SJVl8ag19-iGcmzks8tEOKF9bZj8FjRwM70a0iPtIhLRsuJyCtZf_7S4E0LGTfrqx61Gue700Q8EeS2Y9qDLer8sApaa3pGcCzVQ_Pa5oPe-prCgboRVKbZCOmFuESodpZuCfmRDQo/s200/photo+5.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Back in May, during my normal sewing and design blog surfing I noticed these burgundy buttons for Seamingly.com on blog sites. Most of you should know about it by now, but here's their about page: </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1M5XDFl7w8GYqJsNakBciLRAdfP40-fsBbXuJNo49p0JU1QypDuInhu9EdwcJLR-QE8-9gtxwz7fOjYJEWbAsS4PT5Phk4Wc6aaOVuanaHeESYiXoe16rIOvBsrXgylWM0Ypj1iIME-Q/s1600/photo+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" bx="true" height="293" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1M5XDFl7w8GYqJsNakBciLRAdfP40-fsBbXuJNo49p0JU1QypDuInhu9EdwcJLR-QE8-9gtxwz7fOjYJEWbAsS4PT5Phk4Wc6aaOVuanaHeESYiXoe16rIOvBsrXgylWM0Ypj1iIME-Q/s400/photo+3.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">So if you haven't been to Seamingly yet, it's a bloglist of creative DIYers, dressmakers, designers and crafters, mostly savy sewist. Some are hugely popular and others are unknown to me. Like an encyclopedia of some of the best blogs out there! Grosgrain, Male Pattern Boldness, Diary of a sewing fanatic, Erica B.! Great! So after a couple return visits and finding a great post on the site on other blogs, I decide that I'd like to join in.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpH0Sz8xBsuAyaog239swfyZNGGtlcMkw31J2uLfqtbs63zSxBtNJH9eX11Lss2QbGSrKq9yXaSNpFXymoqVUsjLnGdHkFIMz2aPvUvWUOzyorQcGNTK5SibPREaGgOEwgtOR5K9u-tlI/s1600/photo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" bx="true" height="292" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpH0Sz8xBsuAyaog239swfyZNGGtlcMkw31J2uLfqtbs63zSxBtNJH9eX11Lss2QbGSrKq9yXaSNpFXymoqVUsjLnGdHkFIMz2aPvUvWUOzyorQcGNTK5SibPREaGgOEwgtOR5K9u-tlI/s400/photo+2.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">So around the first week in June, I scroll to the bottom, tap on the link, fill out the form and tap to submit b4thedoor. The thank you screen pops up and a note stating that they will make contact in 2 days. So to me, that means 48 hours exactly. I patiently wait and wait and wait and wait and wait and wait and wait and wait and wait and wait and wait and wait and wait and wait and wait and wait and wait and wait and wait and wait and wait and wait. Patiently. Let's look at the calendar readers. It's August! And they have said nothing. No email. No call. Silence from Seamingly.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgocQcEDCAe2QoHPv-pr2Zb3Q-UyNdtPEoSQPJmpb-1e0ZbTkj-qCNAaQIo_xh47xiCEUiaqS1YWP4ZVBeOVj0hamDTHdT_dVJ10nLwNviU8uJuntLkEwSUzLVABrXc27__xGxtSmevu0A/s1600/photo+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" bx="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgocQcEDCAe2QoHPv-pr2Zb3Q-UyNdtPEoSQPJmpb-1e0ZbTkj-qCNAaQIo_xh47xiCEUiaqS1YWP4ZVBeOVj0hamDTHdT_dVJ10nLwNviU8uJuntLkEwSUzLVABrXc27__xGxtSmevu0A/s320/photo+4.JPG" /></a></div><br />
One of the issues that I now have it that they do not tell you the criterion of how they select who's in and who's out. I'd really like to know. I have my own personal ideas, but am I the only one who has been ignored. I could ramble on and on about the reasons why but I'd like to hear from you my favorite readers! You're experienced and savvy! And this is what I want to know:<br />
Did you submit your own application or did someone else (like a follower or reader)? If you were accepted, what communication did you receive? Did seamingly send a rejection e-mail to you? Are you receiving the silent treatment like b4thedoor? Should I try and submit again? Should I forget about it?<br />
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Readers, please don't pity me and send an application on my behalf. Please don't. I want hear from Seamingly.com about the facts from them. <br />
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I'm not hating on those who are in...I've been following their blogs, and admired their mastery since before I had a blog via rss feeds. You're inspirational! So it's not that at all. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy6SJVl8ag19-iGcmzks8tEOKF9bZj8FjRwM70a0iPtIhLRsuJyCtZf_7S4E0LGTfrqx61Gue700Q8EeS2Y9qDLer8sApaa3pGcCzVQ_Pa5oPe-prCgboRVKbZCOmFuESodpZuCfmRDQo/s1600/photo+5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" bx="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy6SJVl8ag19-iGcmzks8tEOKF9bZj8FjRwM70a0iPtIhLRsuJyCtZf_7S4E0LGTfrqx61Gue700Q8EeS2Y9qDLer8sApaa3pGcCzVQ_Pa5oPe-prCgboRVKbZCOmFuESodpZuCfmRDQo/s320/photo+5.JPG" /></a></div><br />
Lastly, about those voting buttons, I'm guessing that they will pass along some code once you receive their 'welcome packet', then you can customize it to your website. And the more your readership votes the higher your site moves on the Seamingly.com blog list. Are you popular? Are you cool with the kids?<br />
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This week I have plans to freshen up the place, I know, it could be prettier, but I don't know code, I know fabric, so it may take more like 7 months than 7 days. I'm trying readers!<br />
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So, in addition to my previous list of questions, I'm opening the door to some honest witty feedback mostly, constructive tidbits if you will, but don't get anonymous crazy. Be bold.<br />
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That's all.b4thedoor.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04585273703193652078noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8437709322495669980.post-18520250887198058142010-08-06T09:02:00.000-04:002010-08-06T10:29:09.744-04:00Distressed Autumn Library dress, Vogue 1190Orchids!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/06/463.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/06/s_463.jpg' border='0' width='333' height='690' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><b>Why did I choose this pattern?</b>. I really liked this pattern because it was another new shape for me. A break away from the sheath again. There is nothing in my closet that comes close to this dress! The skirt has a bit of hem flare but it wasn't too wide in the hips or at the hem.<br /><br /><b>Pattern Description & sizing: </b><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/06/464.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/06/s_464.jpg' border='0' width='444' height='333' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><b>How do I look?</b> There aren't enough modifications for it to look different than the line drawing, basically twins right? It's a bit low in the front, but not crazy. I'll add a snap later.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/06/465.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/06/s_465.jpg' border='0' width='333' height='465' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/06/466.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/06/s_466.jpg' border='0' width='222' height='574' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><b>The instructions & construction!</b> Wow! The instructions are very clear and straight forward. Vogue classifies this pattern an easy, and it is! The beginner can do this (depending on fabric choice), especially if there are no major alterations needed. Most of all, I loved the construction, it's really beautiful inside and out! The front bodice has 2 lower edge pleats, vertical and horizontal bust darts. The horizontal buts dart is exposed so I stitched it in bubble gum pink so it could be seen! Another great feature is that all vertical seams are french seamed. So, no serger needed. Everything is enclosed! But because I microwaved this one, inside all of my French seam is a serged seam. Blame it on the fabric, more on that later. <br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/06/720.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/06/s_720.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><b>Favorite things about the pattern?</b> My favorite pattern surprise? A hong kong finished zipper! I was so happy to see this, and it was a breeze to finish since I just used this technique on my Minnie Penny pocket pant #3! I didn't use bias tape as suggested, I used my fashion fabric.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/06/721.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/06/s_721.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><b>What scared me the most?</b> Completing the French seam first on the center back seam and then inserting the zipper! I chose to follow the directions and it turned out very well. The key is to clip just above the finished French seam to the the zipper SA will freely lay flat. Because of my fabric type, I use a bit of fusible on the fashion fabric before I clipped so it didn't get hairy! <br /><br /><b>My Fashion Fabric:</b> Oh my! After shopping my stash, I didn't find anything that really worked. So off to the store! Because of the uniqueness of the dress I wanted to push myself in the print department. Easy road: silky animal print...i almost went there! But after trying something out, I choose this quirky pretty print. <br /><br />Every piece of fabric that I buy has to pass 2 HLT tests. 1) does it look good on me in the mirror? Yes, I'll either bring my own or search for one to use in the store. 2) Will it photograph well? Albeit flouresent, most fabric stores have adequate lighting to prevent trips and falls. But I'll whip out my iPhone and take a picture of it and look at it. Of course it's going to be bad because there no flash and cheap store lighting! But that's the point. If the fabric still looks great in those conditions, it's basically in the bag. (these are not the only HLT fabric test, there's touchy, feely, rub, rub stretch test & fabric content guessing, and a couple others)<br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/06/467.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/06/s_467.jpg' border='0' width='355' height='266' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br />This fabric has so many colors. As you can see I tried to swatch them, but I'm probably only at 80%. The comprehensive tones happen to be just right. It's interesting that some of the colors individually would look very bad with my skin tone. Yes, it's polyester, but I'm not mad. Sheer, light, flowy. The weight is much like the Sweet ruffles blouse, but the texture is smoother. It's raw edge can get very hairy, that's why I serged!<br /><br />My contrast waistband is black poly crinkle from my stash. I haven't made the bow yet, but I might. And if I do it will be a pin, not sewn on. Sometimes I don't feel like a bow. Navy invisible zipper. <br /><br /><b> Changes I made: </b> Only 1 for fitting. I cut 1.5 inches off the front bodice shoulder. Clearly, I don't have a super long torso, so I have to adjust.<br /><br />Transition styling: added cardigan. This looks great with my navy polka dot peep toes!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/06/468.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/06/s_468.jpg' border='0' width='333' height='480' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><b>Future pattern plans?</b> Yes, I want to sew it again! This would make a really great LBD. I'm also thinking about knit possibilities, sans zipper. Or, just modifying the back so that there's full coverage.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/06/469.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/06/s_469.jpg' border='0' width='333' height='570' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><b>Final thoughts: </b>. I love it! It's different. I was thinking... Would I have given this dress a second look at the department store, even if I was snoop shopping? Would it have enough hanger appeal to bring me to the rack? Probably not. But it looks great on!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/06/470.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/06/s_470.jpg' border='0' width='323' height='565' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br />I was in this dress all day in the big apple! It's also great for wading in the humidity. Nothings worse in the summer weather than feeling glued into your clothes. This dress has a flirty style and a swingy hem. Oh, I also didn't topstitch my ruffles down as suggested. Not a time issue, just a design issue. It's just me, I think it takes away from the ruffle bounce! But even in the wind my ruffles didn't let me down.<br /><br />HLT recommend additions: strapless undergarments! I might try placing undergarment modesty loops at the shoulder & at the back bodice...zipper level. I think that will work for those highly specialized undergarments.<br /><br />It's a great Tracy Reese pattern, it's unique, fun and flirty. I'm glad that I pushed the edges of time a bit to get this dress done...I wouldn't have this pattern yet if I didn't BMV. BTW, the vogues are on sale at the 'J' this weekend. I wouldn't be wearing this dress if I waited for this sale! I'm even happier about my fabric choice!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/06/471.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/06/s_471.jpg' border='0' width='333' height='249' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br />Thanks for coming over!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/06/472.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/06/s_472.jpg' border='0' width='74' height='26' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad<br /><br /><br />b4thedoor.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04585273703193652078noreply@blogger.com31tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8437709322495669980.post-13230127694320117032010-08-06T02:13:00.001-04:002010-08-06T11:22:15.613-04:00New Butterick Fall 2010 Patterns! Mostly Possibilities!Well here they are! My gut reactions!<br />
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Sleeve insanity or sleeve iconic? Insanity.<br />
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Raglan sleeves make me look like a football player with plastic shoulder pads! I'm liking the peplum though.<br />
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Front: dress. Back: coat.<br />
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Cheepy, cheepy, in cheepy white poly! Will look great in deep plum point knit. I like the 3/4 sleeve length. <br />
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Skirt! Yes! Jacket? Maybe.<br />
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Must have it! Will get it! I can do a kimono sleeve!<br />
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Star trekie chic. I don't know.<br />
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Are you crying, or crying tears of joy? Well, readers I think I think some of these may get on the list after I finish the rest if my Vogues and vintages, but it's time for a pattern drafting class. I've made a couple things self drafted on my own, but I think it's time to get down! Pattern thoughts or direction on pattern making are welcomed!<br />
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I'll still post the dress today. Just later.<br />
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- Posted using BlogPress from my iPadb4thedoor.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04585273703193652078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8437709322495669980.post-45071433870878229002010-08-05T06:59:00.001-04:002010-08-06T11:23:26.299-04:00The psychology of marketing. A different Vogue pattern sale.<a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/05/397.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/05/s_397.jpg' border='0' width='400' height='393' align='right' style='margin:5px'></a><br />
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Readers, is this good marketing? When I first saw this image, I thought, oh, that's so me a Girly Girl! But I'm not getting this pattern and I'm wondering how many of you did? As I've said before, I will not do ruffles on sleeves! Even if I'm in costume...which almost never happens, that includes that creepy little holiday that I loathe! Back on topic, I think they want me to buy this pattern. I'm guessing that of their designer products, this one ranked low in sales to their surprise! Ha! But isn't it kinda pretty. The hair. The makeup. The skirt is great and maybe if I just removed the sleeve ruffle it would look very pretty on you...unique. Why don't you buy it and give it a try. Yea! It won't hurt at all. It will be fun! <br />
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No readers, I will not get this pattern at this price, or at all, because it's $5.99! They got my money, I got the patterns, did they forget that the patterns were just $3.99. My inner girly girl is slightly disappointed! (in a high squeaky voice) I do want to show my feminine side with ruffles and frills! Ok tell me! Who got this pattern. Just curious. I know someone will totally rock it!<br />
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Almost done, these Vogue pattern sale post things won't last forever. I'm just learning their pattern, recording it, because they have one.<br />
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Lastly, readers you should be proud! That last post, I did on a real laptop! Oh dear, that was a time eater! I'm proud if me for that post, but that took a lot of time, so don't get used to it readers, laptops are now a 'sometimes food' for me. It's back to tap, tap, tap iPad blogging, which is also why the formatting is not as fabulous, but I'm dealing.<br />
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See ya tomorrow with my dress!<br />
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- Posted using BlogPress from my iPadb4thedoor.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04585273703193652078noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8437709322495669980.post-22300737128527860212010-08-03T13:00:00.006-04:002010-08-03T14:47:03.591-04:00I'm calling it! It's over! I'm moving on!Good bye summer sewing...<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLrzZrIaii3tFiaAne6viW2bb01ldB7tgo-82LmLPHH1i5zL0YxG3rErEitkkOPB-WXpS4JUgdyGc8lTZwJ4arKYxTQrlo_iuupEEUEFJEC-z3jKc9RMBFPGIgGbs9UQ_stjaXiCpU9zQ/s1600/photo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLrzZrIaii3tFiaAne6viW2bb01ldB7tgo-82LmLPHH1i5zL0YxG3rErEitkkOPB-WXpS4JUgdyGc8lTZwJ4arKYxTQrlo_iuupEEUEFJEC-z3jKc9RMBFPGIgGbs9UQ_stjaXiCpU9zQ/s640/photo+2.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
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I didn't plan this, but it's been the summer of the skirt! After I spent a day (late spring) trudging in sweltering heat and swimming through the humidity, capris and shorts were not working for me! Fabric sticking to skin is not stylish on me, IMO. These skirt were super easy to make, they don't require much fabric, and they can be finished in an hour or two.<br />
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In the tops and bottoms category there are 2 items that were not necessarily outfitted the most, they were just great for me!: the Sunset Seagulls Tank & the Impressionist Pencil Skirt. This skirt ranks highest overall, the print is so versatile, casual or dressy. It's not clingy and wades through humidity quite nicely.<br />
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Here's the breakdown:<br />
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7 Skirts:<br />
<a href="http://b4thedoor.blogspot.com/2010/04/zebra-pencil-skirt-b5466.html" target="_blank">Zebra pencil skirt</a> (worn 5 times)<br />
<a href="http://b4thedoor.blogspot.com/2010/07/rest-of-that-animala-skirt.html" target="_blank">Vintage zebra pencil skirt</a>t (worn 1 time)<br />
<a href="http://b4thedoor.blogspot.com/2010/06/ootd-summer-skirt-2-more-art.html" target="_blank">Impressionist pencil skirt</a> (worn 3 times)<br />
<a href="http://b4thedoor.blogspot.com/2010/07/turkish-delight-skirt-m4663.html" target="_blank">Turkish delight pencil skirt</a> (worn 1 time)<br />
Navy tropical skirt (worn 3 times) Thought I did a post but it's the same pattern as the zebra pencil skirt.<br />
<a href="http://b4thedoor.blogspot.com/2010/06/sunset-seagulls-tank.html" target="_blank">Stretch linen pleated skirt</a> (worn 1 time)<br />
<a href="http://b4thedoor.blogspot.com/2010/06/vintage-pencil-skirt.html" target="_blank">Vintage A+ skirt</a> (worn 1 time)<br />
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4 Tops<br />
<a href="http://b4thedoor.blogspot.com/2010/06/sunset-seagulls-tank.html" target="_blank">Sunset seagulls tank</a> (worn 3 times)<br />
<a href="http://b4thedoor.blogspot.com/2010/05/vacay-flutter-tank-m5853.html" target="_blank">Vacay Flutter Tank</a> (worn 2 times)<br />
<a href="http://b4thedoor.blogspot.com/2010/05/vacay-tulle-fountain-tank-m5853.html" target="_blank">Vacay Tulle Fountain Tank</a> (worn 2 times)<br />
<a href="http://b4thedoor.blogspot.com/2010/07/sweet-ruffle-wrap-anna-sui-v2850.html" target="_blank">Sweet Ruffle Wrap blouse</a> (worn 1 time)<br />
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1 Apron<br />
<a href="http://b4thedoor.blogspot.com/2010/06/zebra-toile-batik-oh-my-apron.html" target="_blank">Zebra, Toile, Batik Oh my! Apron</a> <a href="http://b4thedoor.blogspot.com/2010/05/satc-do-you-apron-like-i-apron_6126.html" target="_blank">& here.</a>(worn 2 times)<br />
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3 Pants (Transition ready!)<br />
<a href="http://b4thedoor.blogspot.com/2010/07/minnie-penny-pant-vogue-1039-3.html" target="_blank">Minnie Penny Pant 3</a><br />
<a href="http://b4thedoor.blogspot.com/2010/07/little-bit-minnie-skinny-penny-pant.html" target="_blank">A Little Bit Skinny Penny Pant 2</a><br />
<a href="http://b4thedoor.blogspot.com/2010/07/skinny-penny-pocket-pant-v1039-muslin.html" target="_blank">Skinny Penny Pant 1</a><br />
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2 DIY Upgrade<br />
<a href="http://b4thedoor.blogspot.com/2010/06/diy-liberty-floral-daze-cardigan-by-j.html" target="_blank">Liberty Floral Daze Cardigan</a> (worn 2 times)<br />
<a href="http://b4thedoor.blogspot.com/2010/07/lattice-belt-diy.html" target="_blank">Black Lattice Belt</a> (worn 1 time)<br />
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Well, now that I look back, I didn't reach my goal, so far as the number, of dresses sewn. What really slowed me down, was not having/finding the right fabric for the pattern. I could have squeezed in another solid/cotton brocade. But I'm very happy that I achieved different goal of adding color and prints to my wardrobe. Finally! I think the solid dress and the print neutrals will be most wearable for next year, for sure, we will have to see about the others.<br />
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As you can tell there's a certain shape and form that just works for me. The sheath dress is my comfort and staple, my signature if you will. I want to continue to try out new shapes so that my signature stays fresh, not boring! After wearing each of these dresses one of them rises above. This dress interrupted my conversations and interrupted conversations in passing. It's the Painted Zebra Wrap dress! I was trying something different and it worked!<br />
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2 neutral prints that I will be able to wear next year:<br />
<a href="http://b4thedoor.blogspot.com/2010/06/painted-zebra-wrap-dress-b5329.html" target="_blank">Painted zebra wrap dress</a> (worn 1 time)<br />
<a href="http://b4thedoor.blogspot.com/2010/07/mccalls-vintage-7003-circa-1963.html" target="_blank">Vintage cowl neck dress</a> (worn 1 time)<br />
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1 Solids (seasonless, I plan to wear it in the winter too, with tights!)<br />
<a href="http://b4thedoor.blogspot.com/2010/07/mccalls-vintage-7003-circa-1963.html" target="_blank">Vintage Cowl Neck Dress</a> (worn 1 time)<br />
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3 Summer print dresses<br />
<a href="http://b4thedoor.blogspot.com/2010/05/impressionist-floral-dress-b5455.html" target="_blank">Impressionist Floral Dress</a> (worn 2 times)<br />
<a href="http://b4thedoor.blogspot.com/2010/05/hot-shoulder-cool-color-m5658.html" target="_blank">Hot Shoulder Dress</a> (worn 2 times)<br />
<a href="http://b4thedoor.blogspot.com/2010/05/satc2-charlotte-york-goldblatt-dress.html" target="_blank">Charlotte York Goldblat SATC 2 homage dress</a> (worn 1 time)<br />
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1 dress for HLS<br />
<a href="http://b4thedoor.blogspot.com/2010/05/b5316-alumni-dress-details.html" target="_blank">The Alumni Dress</a> <a href="http://b4thedoor.blogspot.com/2010/05/alumni-dress.html" target="_blank">& here.</a>(at least twice)<br />
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Hmm... seems like I'm forgetting something, maybe not. But I've been productive & practicing! Getting back into it after a winter of here & there projects, has been rewarding! It's not a wardrobe, but I sewed what I wanted, and I like that. <br />
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So what's next...<br />
Building a transitional wardrobe on the pants that I've just sewn, then adding in tops, jackets and suits and dresses. But I'm starting with separates. You might see a couple summer items pop up this month, but it's time to plan forward. And of course there will some surprises in-between.<br />
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Thanks for stopping by!b4thedoor.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04585273703193652078noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8437709322495669980.post-718352922409692652010-08-01T23:43:00.001-04:002010-08-01T23:43:50.203-04:00Fresh out of the microwave! ... Tracy Reese Vogue 1190 dress!Or toaster oven...<br />
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This dress is awesome! There's so much so say but in short, this is a great pattern! Great design & construction! But there's good news and not so good news. The good: my microwave was working overtime today and this dress I'd nearly done! Just the final touches remain and shes ready for lights! I'm very happy about at least one Vogue getting sewed up, because I will not have much time this week for sewing. The not so good part: No pics of me in the dress till Friday, sorry favorite readers. When you see the pics you'll totally understand why I waited and left the boring Martha Stewart Dove wall alone this time. Sew, it was a good day! <br />
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That's all!<br />
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<center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/01/2803.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/01/s_2803.jpg' border='0' width='74' height='26' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPadb4thedoor.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04585273703193652078noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8437709322495669980.post-43108791017474180342010-08-01T08:39:00.001-04:002010-08-01T08:39:03.990-04:00The pattern situation! It's in the microwave!<br /><br /><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/01/535.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/01/s_535.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='217' align='right' style='margin:5px'></a><br />Well readers, it finally arrived yesterday, my manilla BMV envelope, quite timely I might add. The USPS did a lovely job shipping my patterns and putting them in my mailbox without folding or crushing them to smithereens, although, they can't seem to resist folding, nearly creasing my favorite catalogs (which also arrived yesterday) in our very spacious mailbox? Why mail lady! Why? Hmm.. Anyhow, I'm happy that I've received my patterns before they went on sale at JoAnns. That was the whole point of doing the BMV thing! Timing. So, I feel that I need to take advantage of getting my Vogues (5 days) earlier than I would if purchased at the 'J'. The Vogues go on sale at the 'J' on Friday, BTW! <br /><br />So now I've moved on to reading and looking at the pattern pieces & line drawings again, visualizing the outfits in my head. I have some good hours of sewing ahead of me and it's time to get started! It's feeling like a sew it fast, quick and easy project day. Hot & Ready! Microwave sewing! Basically, I want it now! Let's see what happens! And readers thanks for stopping by, especially my favorite 40!<br /><br />That's all!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/01/536.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/08/01/s_536.jpg' border='0' width='74' height='26' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad<br />b4thedoor.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04585273703193652078noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8437709322495669980.post-90446830360660905762010-07-29T07:10:00.000-04:002010-07-29T18:52:30.407-04:00Minnie Penny Pant, Vogue 1039, #3Well that was easy...<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/29/383.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/29/s_383.jpg' border='0' width='222' height='449' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />So what's new?<br /><br />This time I did the 1 inch front thigh alteration. This shall be my standard.<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/29/384.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/29/s_384.jpg' border='0' width='333' height='444' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />And a full seat alteration. I followed the instructions from the threads DVD. It's about 1/3 inch, should have done 1/2 inch. This prevents that horrible peek-a-boo from the back view! <br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/29/385.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/29/s_385.jpg' border='0' width='333' height='100' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Same pocket construction with the zig-zagstitch. I used polka dot cotton for the pockets and finished them the French way!<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/29/386.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/29/s_386.jpg' border='0' width='333' height='249' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />I only made 4 belt loops this time (not in the pattern) two on the front and two on the back. Installed the zipper in the back too. Kinda weird, but I have a pair like that and I like them. The trick is so shorten the zipper so it doesn't end up you know where! So I cut mine to 6 inches. Just right! <br /><br />I also cut the waistband down to a normal, RTW width. lowered the waist band by 1.5 inches. It seems that most of the pant patterns that I've tried, which is not that many, the rise and the waistband often hits my sternum! I know, I'm petite, but why do the pattern companies follow the trends for every other garment (dresses, blouses etc.) except pants. However, this pattern does provide a place to adjust the pant rise and 2 other adjustment lines for altering the leg length. On this pair I shortened at the thigh 1/2 inch. The rest of the work is in the waistband.<br /><br />The side seams & inseams were machine stitched, serged and then pressed to the back.<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/29/387.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/29/s_387.jpg' border='0' width='350' height='262' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />I'm liking the back zip detail! I used more of the polka dot fabric to finish the zipper. Hong Kong finished on all sides. It's an important feature when the zipper's back there! I saw this feature on a St. John blouse while snoop shopping at Nordstroms. The blouse was very sheer, invisible side zipper, cowl neck floral print. It only partially caught my eye, but the inside was beautiful and that comes with a $300 price tag...on the sale rack! Anyhow, I'll use this finish when I make a sheer blouse, which I need to do soon to coordinate with all of my new pants.<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/29/388.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/29/s_388.jpg' border='0' width='350' height='262' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Because the zipper is placed so, it's super reinforced! It's got a lot of work to do if you know what I'm saying! I've never stitched an invisible so close! But each side of the tape has 4 rows of stitching, including a baste stitch. It will not fail me!<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/29/389.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/29/s_389.jpg' border='0' width='333' height='249' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />The leg is slimmed compared to the first sample but not as fitted in the leg compared to the second sample. <br /><br />Inspiration: Pretty close, except my pockets are better, well I like them better. The inspiration version has back welt pockets. Speaking of welts, it's my personal goal this year to master the welt, all kinds of welts, even the Kenneth D. King versions! I know it takes lots of practice, and that's exactly what I will do!<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/29/390.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/29/s_390.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Fabric Used: Charcoal gray stretch (I'm guessing about 3% Lycra ) cotton twill (Haberman's). Of course I think it's J.Crew fabric, it came in with the same shipment but not labeled. They feel so comfortable!<br /><br />Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I probably will not do these pants and time soon. Although if I did, it would be a 3 hour project, yea! But I do highly recommend this pattern!<br /><br />So let's compare:<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/29/391.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/29/s_391.jpg' border='0' width='333' height='249' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/29/392.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/29/s_392.jpg' border='0' width='333' height='249' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/29/393.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/29/s_393.jpg' border='0' width='333' height='249' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Conclusion: I liked the process of sewing the same pant pattern in sequence. Applying new alteration techniques is an enjoyable process, especially when you get it right! To explore the same pattern repeatedly opens the door to mastery. I now know that I will have to apply some alteration to any pant pattern that I sew. <br /><br />I have plans to apply the same process for front fly trouser style pants, for the experience and knowledge retention, when the weather cools, if I can find a pattern that I like. Definitely, give this one a try if you are looking for a slim or skinny pant! Will you try this pattern? Watcha think? <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/29/394.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/29/s_394.jpg' border='0' width='74' height='26' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad<br /><br />b4thedoor.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04585273703193652078noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8437709322495669980.post-44796294564343256322010-07-28T06:28:00.000-04:002010-07-28T07:04:34.715-04:00Vogue pattern sale alert!!!!! And one more dress!I'm surprised! I'm shocked really. This week I traversed the sweltering heat to Joann's to see if the new Vogue patterns were in stock, but they were not! And I wonder if it was just my locale, because it was a mad house and the inventory bumble bees were everywhere! It was crowded! Alas no new vogue patterns!<br /><br />Ha! Ha! But that ok! I'm a trying to be good blogger and Im listening to my followers and readers and the word is.....BMV girl (me)!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/28/349.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/28/s_349.jpg' border='0' width='333' height='401' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />So, I'm going to BMV right now! I'm going to try not to go crazy here, but I might. My rationale is that it's conducive to my productivity and fabric stash reduction! BTW, if you haven't made up your mind yet you have 4 days until the sale is over! Thanks for stopping by! So what are you getting?<br /><br />Also, I'm glad she stood up! <br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/28/350.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/28/s_350.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/28/351.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/28/s_351.jpg' border='0' width='74' height='26' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad<br />b4thedoor.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04585273703193652078noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8437709322495669980.post-10541037639371498992010-07-26T23:59:00.000-04:002010-07-27T00:06:33.773-04:00A little bit Minnie, skinny penny pant, sample 2Vogue 1039. You've seen sample 1, here's more details and my second version!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/26/2298.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/26/s_2298.jpg' border='0' width='116' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />The pocket process deciphered :<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/26/2299.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/26/s_2299.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/26/2300.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/26/s_2300.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/26/2301.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/26/s_2301.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/26/2302.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/26/s_2302.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/26/2303.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/26/s_2303.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/26/2304.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/26/s_2304.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/26/2305.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/26/s_2305.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/26/2306.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/26/s_2306.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Up close details!<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/26/2307.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/26/s_2307.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Ok, so I had 10 more pictures to show you readers but they were so fuzzy I was getting dizzy! Sorry you can't see the front of this outfit. <br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/26/2308.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/26/s_2308.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />The tone and texture of these pants is very neutral, so they basically will coordinate with everything, but I like them with a pop of color!<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/26/2309.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/26/s_2309.jpg' border='0' width='331' height='248' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />I'm glad I changed a few things! I love the belt loops and the garment quality pockets (idea from the Making Trousers book by David Coffin) I also lowered the waistband by 1/2 inch as compared to sample 1. Serged the inseams & side seams together after it was machine stitched, like jeans. Slightly cropped (2 inches shorter than sample 1) but will work with heels or flats. The fit is...whoa! But the fabric is cotton stretch twill so they are very comfortable!<br /><br />So I'm off to finish my final pair! Scream! The fit will be somewhere between sample 1 & 2 with a couple different features! It's all good though, my final pair should be a breeze, right?! The fabric from the first 2 pair was just in my stash, so it was great to use fabric that vie had for years. BTW, DH really likes these!<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/26/2310.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/26/s_2310.jpg' border='0' width='74' height='26' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad<br /><br />b4thedoor.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04585273703193652078noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8437709322495669980.post-54882692594770002552010-07-25T22:00:00.002-04:002010-07-26T16:18:32.788-04:00The Mad Men effectIt's true, sometimes I watch TV just for the fashion! <br /><br />Mad Men costume designer, Janie Bryant has done a great job creating great styles that are classic and what we want to wear for fall. The timing is perfect! And now is a great time to hunt for those vintage patterns circa 1964! Here's my pattern pics:<br /><br />Just drop the sleeves!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/25/2462.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/25/s_2462.jpg' border='0' width='300' height='225' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br />Sans collar!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/25/2463.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/25/s_2463.jpg' border='0' width='300' height='225' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br />Add a petticoat! Bottom of V8020 &top of V857. <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/25/2464.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/25/s_2464.jpg' border='0' width='300' height='225' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br />Choose either one!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/25/2465.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/25/s_2465.jpg' border='0' width='300' height='225' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br />Do you plan pull your style from the networks for fall? Maybe just one thing?!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/25/2466.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/25/s_2466.jpg' border='0' width='74' height='26' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad<br />b4thedoor.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04585273703193652078noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8437709322495669980.post-66311283879467208142010-07-23T11:52:00.001-04:002010-07-26T07:28:26.687-04:00Skinny Penny Pocket pant, V1039 sample 1Well almost skinny...<br />
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Tissue fitting first ...<br />
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What I learned:<br />
Wow, leg length is great! For 5"2', it's spot on!<br />
Oh no, the waistband hits my sternum. Will adjust for that.<br />
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The pattern info:<br />
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MISSES’ TUNIC AND PANTS: Loose-fitting tunic with extended shoulders, front and back pleats, side gathered bands and shaped hem band, topstitched trim. Pants have side front slant pockets, upper inside pocket (that there is no picture of, but I'll show you later), contour yoke with back tab, invisible zipper closing and topstitched trim, above ankle length.<br />
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Side note: This is almost exactly what I want in a pant pattern! Initially I planned for this pair to be my muslin. I used fashion fabric that I purchased many years ago, but the weight and stretch is similar to the fashion fabric that I planned to use on my final sample.<br />
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NOTIONS: Pants: 7"/9" Invisible Zipper, Hooks and Eyes.<br />
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FABRICS: Tunic: Charmeuse and Crepe de Chine. Pants: Stretch Linen and Stretch Crepe. The stretch is very important in the comfort & fit!<br />
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Combinations: BB(8-10-12-14), FF(16-18-20-22)<br />
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<b>Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?</b> Yes! But I was really worried about it, especially after I finished the penny pocket!<br />
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<b>Were the instructions easy to follow?</b> Yes they were! And believe me, I read them 2x before cutting, and then again during the process. While making the pockets, I was challenged to visualize how it would fit together, but if you follow the instructions, step-by-step they will turn out nicely!<br />
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<b>What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?</b>. I loved the skinniness and the side zip! Front fly trousers send me into a sewing sabbatical faster than.... But I'm working on that.<br />
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<b>Fabric Used:</b> Brown black poly stretch with a slate blue pinstripe, with a hint of midnight. It's really nice, probably from Fabric Warehouse before they moved.<br />
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<b>Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:</b> The only alteration was to shorten the rise by 1.75 inches! I know! That's a lot, it was risky, but I wanted a modern/trendy waistline. Glad I did! Fortunately, that matched up well. I didn't do much topstitching, wanted to keep the look clean.<br />
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Oh yea, after thinking about the unique midnight pinstripe I decided to add a design element to complement the color. I switched the back facing piece to a dark blue linen. <br />
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The back tab thingie is a disaster if you already have issues with the back waistband sticking out. On my next muslin I will delete that!<br />
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<b>Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?</b> Yes, I'm working on a purely test muslin to correct some fitting issues and then I'll do it again on my fashion fabric. On my next muslin sample I'll show more step-by-step details.<br />
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<b>Conclusion: </b> Almost love. Will wear with Spanx! LOL!!!! <br />
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Changes on the next pair: delete the back tab, slim the legs down a bit, crop the leg a bit, add cool pocket lining, adjust for the FFT (full front thigh, how embarrassing!). <br />
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Oh, the top? I made it a couple years ago! It's an RTW copy/modification.<br />
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Thanks for reading, really!<br />
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<center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/23/940.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/23/s_940.jpg' border='0' width='74' height='26' style='margin:5px'></a></center>b4thedoor.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04585273703193652078noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8437709322495669980.post-19064655700492712172010-07-22T09:54:00.001-04:002010-07-29T07:34:33.473-04:00Making trousers or at least good looking pants.I've been flipping through this book for pants help!<br /><br />One great feature: it comes with a DVD-ROM, but it can only be viewed on a computer, it's in a PDF format...interesting. On some of the clips where he's not talking, it's just really bad background music, with limited typeset directions at the bottom of the screen! I had to turn that music down! The disc also has tons of pattern template. My favorite clip so far is the single welt pocket! Have I mentioned my welt pocket phobia yet? Also, I can't give a complete book review yet, but it's very comprehensive and detailed, definitely not for the beginner, but great to have around when designing pants! My primary purpose in reading this book is to gain a few designer secrets and tips that I can integrate into my pants pattern. This book/DVD has just what I've been looking for!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/22/659.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/22/s_659.jpg' border='0' width='253' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br />The Threads fitting DVD series on waist and hips was very helpful too. I don't make pants that often so a quick refresher in fitting is necessary! <br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/22/660.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/22/s_660.jpg' border='0' width='147' height='200' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Fitting issues:<br /><br />Quadriceps femoris, illiopsoas, gracillis & sartorius: highly developed from years of gymnastics & training makes those ugly creases in the front, wiskers! Gotta fix that!<br /><br />The section that was very helpful to me is fitting a full or flat derriere & fitting a full front thigh. The front thigh portion is the shortest clip and they don't actually show the pattern alteration but the same technique is used in the previous chapter, so you have to refer back. <br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/22/661.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/22/s_661.jpg' border='0' width='176' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />So this is where it started. I did a muslin for the 1 inch extension but that was too much. The 1/2 inch worked out well.<br /><br />BTW, I finished a test sample 1st via tissue fitting, then I did the above alteration. Now I'm off to do another test sample with this alteration! <br /><br />Do you have a favorite resource when making pants or trousers that I need to have in my library?<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/22/662.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/22/s_662.jpg' border='0' width='74' height='26' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad<br />b4thedoor.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04585273703193652078noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8437709322495669980.post-51419062178495471152010-07-20T13:52:00.002-04:002010-07-22T23:48:42.423-04:00McCalls vintage 7003 circa 19631st muslin!<br />
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Pattern pictures: I'm loving the indigo ink!<br />
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Front Bodice<br />
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Up close of the front bodice<br />
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Front bodice darts<br />
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Back bodice<br />
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Skirt back with double darts<br />
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Pattern Description: <br />
Cowl neck, drop-shoulder dress with slim or lightly flared three-gore skirt. Bodice front is bias, has chain weight underneath cowl drape. Flared skirt is cathered at the side back and side front. Slim skirt has side front pleats, slow back pleat. Either version has center back zipper and may be lined.<br />
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Pattern Sizing: 14, 34 bust. This is a one size pattern. I probably could do well with a size 12 because I graded everything down 1/2 inch.<br />
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Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Almost. The drape is not as dramatic as I had hoped, but If you look closely at the pattern photo you'll see that the sleeve wings out slightly. That's not a look I'm a fan of on me. <br />
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Were the instructions easy to follow? The instructions were truly vintage, with back facing and armholes facing. I didn't go that route. My dress is fully lined, but I had to redrafted the back bodice lining to correct for the back facing (that I choose to use) and lower the lining on the front pattern piece because it's self faced. The pattern does not correct for this. The instructions follow techniques that are not as relevant with the technologies available on most machines today. They do require much more hand stitching, while on my garment only the hem is hand stitched. <br />
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What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? The picture on the front sold me, with that Jackie O flair! DH thinks I need a hat, but I'm not sold on that yet.<br />
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Fabric Used: A bouncy cotton poly blend. I did a couple burn tests to attempt confirmation, very slow burning, woody aroma, but the ashes didn't fall. So there's probably some poly or acetate in the percentage. Bemberg lining. Invisible zipper. I think that the rest of this fabric will be put in the circular filing bin (the trash). <br />
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Sorry, my form is leaning!<br />
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Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: I had to size down 1/2 inch on the vertical seams, 6 inches off the hem. The waist fit and back darts are spot on. BTW, the waist seam is about 1 inch above my natural waist. Slightly high! Also the lining changes noted above.<br />
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Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? Yes, I plan to sew this again, I'll probably do one more muslin... playing around with sleeve/shoulder seam darts, increasing the seam allowance so there's less sleeve or re-cutting them all together. Other considerations: reducing the armscye circumference (it's not fine not but it could be better, elongating at the shoulder seam and widening the cowl portion of the pattern for better drape. Eventually, I want to make this out of lightweight wool jersey which will be much easier to sew, IMO.<br />
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Conclusion: The sleeves are not that flattering on my arms. And the high neckline alters the proportions, balance & rule of thirds. But over all I do like it! Especially, with the asymmetrical neckline + brooch. I couldn't ask for a better fit on a first try vintage pattern. <br />
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It's twisted & shorter! Tip of the day from Threads Insider Techniques DVD (I haven't watched every part but I found this little sparkling gem in the collar unit on the main menu. I also re-learned this little gem after completing this project). BTW, I highly recommend watching this if you haven't seen it yet. And If you don't want own it, make sure your local library does!)<br />
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B on B, bigger on the bottom, bias on the bottom! When sewing with bias, put it next to the feed dogs because they 'eat'. The pressed foot pushes the fabric. This will assure that both pieces of fabric will end up the same length. <br />
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I believe that this was an issue on this dress because the front bodice is cut on the bias. So at the side seams and shoulder seams there is that potential for wonkyness!! Some seams are good, others...no do much. <br />
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I'd like to hear your thoughts on this. Is this dress it wearable? How do you sew bias? Do you follow the B on B principle? Or does it just work out for you? Suggestions? <br />
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- Posted using BlogPress from my iPadb4thedoor.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04585273703193652078noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8437709322495669980.post-32846708504667154142010-07-19T20:04:00.001-04:002010-07-22T23:50:35.706-04:00Lattice belt DIYHappy Monday Readers! I'm too tired to post want I want to post, but that will come tomorrow. Sorry. But I did get a little crafty today with this belt that I probably purchased 2 years ago from one of those cheapy cheap accessories stores, with the intention of using it on a sewing project in some way. Today was the day!<br />
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This belt caught my attention because of the intricate laser work, albeit on vegan leather textile. It did have some cons, it's two sizes to large and it has a hideous generic buckle. I started the project by cutting the belt 1 inch longer than my natural waist. <br />
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Keeping the original design of the end of the belt, I replicated the form on the opposite end and cut my hook and loop tape to match. From my experience sewing animal hide leather, using a tiny amount of rubber cement is helpful to set leather or leather like textiles. And I switched my needle to a leather grade needle. <br />
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Some of you may remember this (pre-blog, review is on PR):<br />
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Back to the belt...I sewed the tape onto each end using bar tacks which provided enough support for the wear and tear.<br />
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And voilĂ ! I'll post about my vintage pattern dress tomorrow. <br />
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And one more thing... <br />
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While fabric shopping today, I commented on a piece of fabric that another customer scored in the remnant section. Hot, Italian rayon ikat knit border print, really great. Lovely. And then we both went our on way in the store. Much, much, much later she returned to me and said that the fabric was to thin for the project that she wanted to do, and offered it to me! Wow! A fabric store act of kindness. It was unexpected! I graciously accepted the piece. So to you, beautiful kind stranger I say, THANK YOU x 1000! Not just because I received some really cool fabric, but because I was blessed by your choice of kindness to another human being!<br />
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...that's all.<br />
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-Posted using BlogPress from my iPadb4thedoor.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04585273703193652078noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8437709322495669980.post-36094874486381939852010-07-18T08:24:00.000-04:002010-07-18T08:48:37.230-04:00Lame Pattern Sales! Summer Fabric! Wishlist!The month of July is more than half finished! For me this means that I have<br />14 days to reduce some of my summer fabric stash before it's stored away (I do that before the seasons change), even though there's a good month left of hot sticky Summer, I'm ready to sew for Fall, but I'm just trying to sew these up! Too many pots on the front burners!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/18/483.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/18/s_483.jpg' border='0' width='381' height='221' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br />If you are looking for patterns:<br /> <br />July 18-24 Butterick patterns at Joann fabrics $0.99.<br />There might be a glimmer of hope here if they do the fall rollout this week!<br /><br />July 19-24 Simplicity patterns at Hobby Lobby are $0.99.<br /><br />July 22-25 Simplicity patterns at Hancock fabrics $1.99.<br /><br />July 22-25 Kwik Sew patterns at Hancock fabrics 20% off.<br /><br />July 29-31 Simplicity patterns at Joann fabrics $1.99 again!<br /><br />It's like the retailers are trying to rid their drawers of the Simplicity patterns with all the sales! I wonder! But here are my pre-fall picks:<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/18/484.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/18/s_484.jpg' border='0' width='381' height='285' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /> McCalls pattern sale is no where in sight either!<br /><br />So basically, you're super lucky if you live near a Hancock fabrics last week (11-17th)! All the new fall Vogue patterns are yours for a chill $3.99. That does not include me, oh no, I'm 50 miles from the nearest Hancock location and it's even in another state! I need at least one to attempt to start on or at least ogle over. Does anyone have sympathy for HLT...anybody...sad face. I'll only put down 'the money' if it's vintage and I can't get it on eBay for cheaper. I have a situation!<br /> <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/18/485.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/18/s_485.jpg' border='0' width='381' height='285' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /> <br />From the sale schedule it looks like I'll be waiting till August or September for my Vogues!!!!!! Again, sad face. If I'm missing a sale, please let me know! Have a great sewing Sunday!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/18/486.jpg'><img src='http://blogpress.w18.net/photos/10/07/18/s_486.jpg' border='0' width='74' height='26' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad<br /><br /><br />b4thedoor.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04585273703193652078noreply@blogger.com5