Complete x2: Kwik Sew 3693

I actually finished sewing View B of Kwik Sew 3693 quite awhile ago. And yet, it never really got finished. Allow me to explain.

I was so, so proud of myself for getting it put together with minimal issues. So, naturally, I tried it on after I finished the hem. Therein lies the problem. See, I never really took it back off to add the pockets. And since it wasn't officially finished, I put off posting/reviewing it. But, since the fleece I used is super cheap, it has started pilling, and I've nixed the idea of adding the pockets (though they would come in handy, I'm sure).

Here's View A. I'm even more proud of this one. And it is completely done. I made this with the intent to wear it over my warmer weather dresses (having been pregnant or just given birth the last 2 winters, I'm short on non-maternity winter wear).

And though this pattern recommends using firm knits, I think it turned out great with my slinky knit. I sewed a size S and I like the fit. It is very comfortable. I think I could have done ok with an extra small, with the amount of stretch this particular fabric offers. The Hatchi Stretch Rayon Blend Jersey Knit Ivory (what a mouthful!) is pretty fragile & loosely woven, so I was a little concerned that I was going to snag it with my fingernail or something during production. But it survived intact. It also survived it's first two washings.

For the hem I used a twin needle (for the first time!! Woot!) And had no issues whatsoever with it. I didn't have to adjust the tension or anything. I did use what looks like serger thread in my bobbin. I had more issues getting the tension right with my serger, though. For some reason (if anyone has serger insight, feel free to clue me in) when I was overcasting the edges, the fabric tended to gather. After some fiddling, it got better. But for the life of me I'm not really sure what fixed it, as I tried so many things. :)

This pattern--both views--comes together incredibly fast & I highly, highly recommend it. For me, it was perfect for my first knit projects. I do wish that View B had a closure, but one reviewer on PR added a zipper, & I had originally intended to do the same, but, like I said, it never really got finished. :)

Yesterday I bit the bullet and ordered fabric for the Crepe Sew Along. After analyzing my (admittedly small) shoe stash, I decided to go with the turquoise Voile, since I already have brown boots & heels that will go with it. That, and the cardigan I just made will look really great as a topper. :)

Whole Lotta Sewin Goin On...

...in my head. I haven't actually sewed a stitch in about a week (except for some mending) but I have plans. And lots of them.

First & foremost, I am tracing Kwik Sew 3693 & should be able to start sewing it up tomorrow or Wednesday. I'll be starting with View B (the more casual of the two) and this project will be the beginning of my journey in both knits & garment making. So, it's kind of a big deal :)

I also need to post reviews of Simplicity 2572, I sewed up both the jumper & also the hoodie jacket (and matching diaper cover) & they all turned out well. Here's a sneak peak of the jumper:

I'm also trying to draft a pattern to make a pin cushion/tool organizer/thread catcher. There are some great tutorials out there (which I will share in a post to come) but I'm picky & have some specifics in mind.

I also have some gifts that I'd like to make. Coffee Cozy, anyone? And, some labels. For my new garments, of course.

So much to sew, so little time.

Self Stitched September Wannabe

Ah. Self Stitched September. What a smorgasbord of inspiration. Someday I hope to be able to participate. Actually, would it count if I wore my self stitched lounge pants to bed every night? No? It's not the same? Well, ok then. I guess I'm just going to have to sit this one out.
But really, some day I would love to participate.
I realized that I'm putting off doing garments for myself out of fear of not being 'good enough.' But how am I going to learn if I'm not doing?? Don't get me wrong. I love making clothes for my living doll, Laila. And for whatever reason, I assume that whatever downfalls my clothing has will be upstaged by her cuteness (so far, so good). Do I not have the same cuteness? No need to answer. Purely hypothetical.

Anyway, it's a goal of mine. To have a wardrobe-heck, a mini wardrobe, completely made by me. Something to work towards, I suppose. But, as with any goal, there is always a first step. I suppose I should plan a 'me' project. Maybe this:

It's got good reviews. And I like both views. 'A' could be for slightly dressier occasions, while 'B' would be great for lounging. One reviewer even added a zipper. And maybe this would be a good foray into knits.