Bluegingerdoll - Vintage inspired sewing patterns, sewing tips and tricks

GET YOUR KNIT ON: WINNER ANNOUNCED!!!!

2015-04-24T15:19:00.000+10:00

WOW! You have certainly been busy little bees with all your voting for you favourite 'Get Your Knit On' favourite.

The lucky winner of the jam packed sewing hamper is.....

Sewoutnumbered

Congratulations!

Please get in contact so i can send out your super awesome prize.

Thanks so much to everyone who took the time to enter, i hope you all enjoy wearing your Anne's, Violet's and Bonnies!

Abby

GET YOUR KNIT ON - TIME TO VOTE!

2015-04-14T13:48:00.000+10:00

Apologies for the delay in rounding up all the 'Get Your Knit On' entries, but here they are!

An awesome collection of Violet's, Anne's and Bonnie's up for voting.

The lucky winner will win a sewing hamper full of yummy sewing goodies!!

Craftastrophies

Sew Dizzy

Sewoutnumbered

An Idle Fancy

Macskakat

Chrichmano

Malisa

Place your vote here!

Good luck to all the entries and happy voting.

Abby

GET YOUR KNIT ON! IT'S COMPETITION TIME.

2015-03-06T11:18:00.000+11:00

Who doesn't like sewing up a knit fabric sewing pattern?

Quick, easy, comfortable and not to mention the fabulous fabric choices out there.

So why not a sewing competition purely dedicated to knit fabric sewing patterns?

Get your knit on is just that.

Awesome, right?

Its a simple competition just like sewing with knit fabrics.
Using only the Bonnie, Violet or Anne sewing patterns stitch up your most amazing knit fabric creation EVER. Let your imagination get all 'crazy town' on you. Hack all three of these patterns together for the ultimate knit pattern lovechild. Or maybe finding the best knit fabric and creating just one knockout piece is more your thing. Whatever you conjure up, your Get Your Knit On creation must use only these Bluegingerdoll sewing patterns ( Bonnie, Violet & Anne).

It's a sewing competition, so there are prizes to be had. I've teamed up with some super awesome stockists to create the ultimate sewing hamper... its a beaut! To give you a little hint, its full of sewing goodies from Bernina, Stitch 56, Voodoo rabbit just to name a few.

Are there rules? Yup...

#GETYOURKNITON - You can enter via Facebook, Instagram, Twitter or Email. Remember your entry MUST be hash tagged #GETYOURKNITON
Your entry must be a brand spanking new make, nothing that has already been blogged etc etc
Good quality photos of your entry.
All entries must be submitted by Midnight AEST Friday 10th April 2015 - No late entries, sorry.
One entry per person.

Want to join in but don't own any of these patterns? Don't worry there's 10% of these three patterns until the end of the competition. Simply use the code: GETYOURKNITON to take advantage in the shop.

Sneaky peaks of the prizes will be popping up throughout the competition.

Don't forget to hashtag it up, while you're stitching away!

#GETYOURKNITON

Entries will be rounded up and voting will be begin, here on the blog on the 13th of April. Whoever has the most votes after the voting period will win! The winner will be announced here on the blog on the 20th of April.

Abby

A Bluegingerdoll collection..

2015-02-12T15:57:00.005+11:00

Meet the 'A' team. The first ever Bluegingerdoll PDF pattern collection.

Inspired by the need for simple but pretty designs that were easy to fit, modify and
sew together. April, Anne, Abby & Alicia are pretty, feminine and collaborative separates.

Each design is beginner friendly, great stash busting patterns and able to stitched up in a lazy afternoon.

These are four patterns you never knew where missing from your handmade wardrobe.

'Featuring subtle gathers along the waistline and a pretty hem frill, April is a
simple but elegant skirt design. Invisible zipper closure.'

'Featuring a stunning and unique Peek-A-Boo neckline design detail, Anne is an

easy to sew knit top with four sleeve variations to choose from.'

'High waisted shorts featuring deep hem length pleats in the front and a

comfortable flared leg design. Invisible side zipper closure.'

'Delicate and pretty singlet featuring a button down front, comfortable

elastic waistline and flared hip length hem.'

Each pattern design has unique, stand alone design features that enable them to be worn alone as statement pieces or paired together to create a gorgeous ensembles.

This little collection of patterns are available in PDF format only.
With a brand new PDF format the instructions are clearer and easier to use.
A copy shop print out option is also available for each pattern.

All patterns available in sizes: 4-24.

Pick up the patterns either in a specially discounted PDF pattern pack

or grab each individual pattern at 10% off until the 21st of February (AEST).
Prices are already showing discount in shop, no need to enter a coupon code at the checkout.

Hope you love the new collection!

Abby

UPDATE: NEW PATTERNS COMING SOON

2015-02-04T08:44:00.000+11:00

Yay! New patterns are coming your way very, very soon!

Totally can't wait to share these patterns with you all.

Abby

Thanks & Merry Christmas!!!!

2014-12-23T15:06:00.003+11:00

As Christmas is nearly upon us and 2014 draws to a close, I wanted to take this opportunity to thank all of you, my lovely readers, customers (everyone!) for all your support. Without you and all your wonderful support and encouragement this year would not have been as fabulous as it was. Every single one of you a constant inspiration and affirmation for me and i'm very touched by messages, visits and gestures that show there is a wonderful sewing community out there that appreciates what i'm doing here with Bluegingerdoll!

Your support truly means the world to me and i am so very grateful for it!

I'm very excited and looking forward to bringing you some more awesome patterns in 2015!

Have a safe, peaceful and joyful Christmas and New Year.

Abby

P.S You can still place orders during the Christmas/New Year period but they'll be shipped out early January once i get back from my little summer holiday!

THE BONNIE SEW-ALONG WINNERS!

2014-12-18T11:32:00.001+11:00

Announcing the Bonnie sew-along winners!

First Place

Makesewdo

Second Place
Sewoutnumbered

Third Place

Cookin' & Craftin'

Fourth Place
Threadpaperpaint

Congratulations to all the lovely ladies who took the time to enter their rad Bonnie's.

Email me at: abbyhorskins@gmail.com to sort out your prizes.

Abby

REMINDER: CHRISTIME SALE TIME UNTIL THIS FRIDAY!

2014-12-17T16:56:00.001+11:00

Don't forget the massive Christmas sale is still on at the moment but only until this Friday the 19/12!!!

Enjoy 30% of all patterns & packs in the shop.
PAPER, PDF, pattern collection packs the whole lot of them.

Simply use the discount code at the checkout:

CHRISTMAS2014

This is your chance to pick up the patterns cheap as chips, fill up your holiday sewing plans, gift them or just treat yourself.

Please note the last day i will be posting out paper pattern orders will also be the 19/12. After this date i'm off on a little summer holiday until early January!
The shop is still open throughout this time and all the PDF patterns are still available for instantaneous download and if you do place an order for a paper pattern after the 19/12, it will be shipped out after the Christmas/New Year period (early January).

Abby
x

Bonnie Pattern Hacks - How to make a Cowl Necked Version

2014-12-15T16:06:00.001+11:00

Hello all! I'm here to do what I do best, show you how to hack up your Bonnie pattern. So are you ready to give your Bonnie pattern a little twist?

Today we'll be talking about how to add a cowl neck to the pattern. Personally I've got a bit of a soft spot for a cowl neck, since any sort of draping around the neckline is flattering. They also give a bit more neck coverage, always a plus once the temperature drops.

For the cowl neck version I'd recommend using a knit jersey that has some drape to it. For example, my sample is sewn in a slinky polyester jersey. Any sort of bamboo, rayon, modal or blends of these fibers would also work well. Save the stable knits like wool jersey, ponte and cotton interlock for other variations of the pattern.

You'll need to use the scoop neckline of view B for the cowl neck version. Either length of the pattern is fine. For my sample I've used view B's neckline combined with the longer shirt length of view C.

Materials needed - Bonnie pattern, trace paper, ruler (a clear one is best), pen/pencil, scissors, flexible tape measure.

Drafting Instructions

Step 1. Select the front and back scoop neck pieces and draw in the seam allowance along the necklines and shoulders. Using a flexible tape measure, measure the back and front necklines on the seam line.

Subtract the shoulder seam allowances and you'll get the length of the cowl needed to fit in the neckline.

Step 2. If you have a self healing cutting mat with a grid then get it out now. Using it to measure dimensions will make the drafting process very simple. Using the cutting mat grid or a regular ruler, draw a horizontal line that is the same length as the front and back necklines combined.

Step 3. Decide how high you want the cowl to be and draw another horizontal line at that height. For example, my sample has a 6" high cowl.

Step 4. Next step is to double the height of the cowl since it will be folded in half during sewing. In my example this makes the pattern 12" high.

Step 5. Find the halfway point on the long side of the cowl and mark it with a notch. You'll want to match this notch with a CF notch on your neckline. I usually put my grainline at this location too.

Step 6. Add seam allowance to all the sides of the rectangle and cut it out. Your cowl pattern is complete and ready to sew.

Sewing instructions

Step 1. When cutting out the front and back Bonnie pieces cut a notch at the CF and CB on the necklines. Also cut a notch at the mid point of the cowl.

Step 2. Sew the shoulder seams together.

Step 3. Sew the CB/short seam of the cowl.

Step 4. Fold the cowl in half. If you don't like lining 3 layers up at once, then baste the long edges of the cowl together.

Step 5. Take the seam of the cowl and match it to the CB notch on the neckline. Pin in place. Then match the mid point cowl notch with the CF front notch on the neckline.

Step 6. Stitch together all three layers, easing the cowl into place between the pinned notches.

Step 7. The inside of your neckline will look like this. The drape of the cowl will hide the serged edge from view when you are wearing it.

Step 8. Continue on with the regular sewing instructions for Bonnie, starting with gathering and then setting the sleeves.

I hope you enjoy wearing your cowl necked Bonnie as much as I do. Happy sewing!
- Heather

The Bonnie sew-along - Voting time!!!!

2014-12-12T10:08:00.000+11:00

****VOTING HAS CLOSED & WINNERS ANNOUNCED****

Time to cast your votes and pick your favorite Bonnie!

You'll be helping all these lovely entrants win some cool sewing prizes AND just before Christmas!!!

Read on below to find out how to place your vote:

1. Check out the fabulous Bonnie entrants listed below. Also have a more closer look over on each of their blogs.

2. Pick your favorite and cast your vote on the voting form.

Voting starts today and will be open until the 15th December (aest).

Once your all done with voting, i will tally them to find out who YOU chose as the winners! Check out the prizes these lovely gals are in the running for here.

The lucky duck winners will be announced on the 16th -17th of December here on the blog and their prizes shipped out in time for Christmas!

I love that all the above entrants have sewn up such diverse and individual versions of the Bonnie to suit their own personal style and taste. As well as using some pretty rad fabrics too... definitely some inspiration bombs for my future Bonnie sewing plans!

Happy voting!

Abby

Bonnie Pattern Hacks - How to make a Cardigan Version

2014-12-10T07:42:00.001+11:00

Hello all! I'm here to do what I do best, show you how to hack up your Bonnie pattern. So are you ready to give your Bonnie pattern a little twist?

Today we'll be talking about how to turn Bonnie into a cardigan. As a perpetually cold person I can never get enough cardigans. It's nice to be able to whip one up quickly from a pattern that you know already fits.

For the cardigan version I'd recommend using stable knits. For example wool jersey, ponte and cotton interlock/cottons with low stretch. My sample is sewn in a wool blend sweater knit that has very little stretch. It's similar to a wool jersey, but slightly lighter weight. You'll also want to use some interfacing on the button band. I recommend using tricot/knit interfacing. This is interfacing has a knit base and does not change the hand of the fabric as much as woven interfacing. You can purchase this sort of interfacing from Fashion Sewing Supply, Emmaonesock.com, Fabric.com or search for Tricot or knit interfacing.

You'll need to use the crew neck of view A for the cardigan version. Either length of the pattern is fine. For my sample I've used view A's neckline combined with the longer shirt length of view C.

Materials needed - Bonnie pattern, trace paper, ruler (a clear one is best), pen/pencil, scissors.

Drafting Instructions

Step 1. Trace off the front bodice piece and add seam allowance to the CF. (In my example SA is 1/4")

Step 2. To calculate the length of the button band we will need to take some measurements. Fold the neckband in half and measure the height. Subtract seam allowance and write down the measurement. Measure the CF of the bodice piece, subtract seam allowance at both the top and bottom, and then write down that measurement. Repeat the neckband steps for the hem band. Once you have all 3 measurements, add them up to get the button band length.

Step 3. Now that we have the button band length we can draft one. On some trace paper draw a vertical line to the length just calculated.

Step 4. Decide how wide you want the button band to be and draw in the rest of the rectangle. In my example the button band is 1.25" wide.

Step 5. Just like the neck and hem bands, the button band will be folded in half. Double the width of the button band you just drafted.

Step 6. Add seam allowance to all edges and a grain line to complete the draft. The button band can now be cut out.

Optional Step - Some people may prefer the look of finishing the sleeve hems with band. Here is how you draft them.

- Decide on the width of the sleeve band, for example 2". Add seam allowance to that amount and measure the width of the sleeve at the point where the cuff will be sewn. Here I'm measuring 2.25" up from the hem to get the width of my 2" cuff. At that height the sleeve is a little over 8".

- Draft a rectangle 2" high and slightly smaller in width than the sleeve, about 1/4 - 3/8" depending on how much stretch your fabric has. In my example the cuff width is 7.75". Add seam allowance to the long sides of the cuff only. The short sides already have seam allowance added.

- When you cut the sleeves out, shorten them by the width of the finished cuff minus the seam allowance. So for my 2" cuff with 1/4" seam allowance, I cut off 1.75" off the bottom of the sleeve.

Sewing instructions

Step 1. Interface both of the button bands

Step 2. Sew the shoulders together on the front and back pieces.

Step 3. Since we're sewing a cardigan the neck band edges don't have to be sewn together. Put the raw edges on the CF's and ease the rest of the neckband in.

Step 4. Set the sleeves and sew up the side seams as instructed in the main directions.

Step 5. Sew on the hem band in the same manner as you did the neckband.

Step 6. Fold the button band right sides together and sew both short ends.

Step 7. Turn the button band right side out, poke out any edges if you need to and give it a good press.

Step 8. Line up the button band on the CF. The finished edge should match to the top of the neckband and the bottom of the hem band.

Step 9. Sew the button band to the cardigan and press the seam allowance towards the body. Repeat on the other side.

Step 10. Using your regular sewing machine, sew buttonholes on the right (if your wearing it) button band. The interfacing will make the fabric stiff enough so that the fabric doesn't get sucked in your machine. You may need to guide/pull the fabric through the foot a bit. It's a good idea to try on a sample first to see how the machine reacts.

Step 11. Cut open button holes and sew buttons on the opposite band.

Throw the new cardigan on your back and stay warm and cozy. Happy Sewing

-Heather

Reminder: Tomorrow is your last chance to enter!

2014-12-09T09:31:00.002+11:00

Just a quick reminder, tomorrow is your last chance to enter your Bonnie and go in the draw to win all these cool prizes!

Simply upload your finished Bonnie's either to the Flickr group, Bluegingerdoll Facebook sew-along page or email me directly with your pics.

Voting will begin on the 12th of December through to the 15th December.
Winners will be announced on the 16th of December here on the blog - just in time for your prizes to be shipped for Christmas!

You can also check out the sew-along happenings on the usual places such as Instagram, Twitter or the Flickr group. Simply use the hashtag #Bonniesewalong.

Abby

Bonnie Pattern Hacks - Make a Tie Neck Version

2014-12-04T10:20:00.003+11:00

Hello all! I'm here to do what I do best, show you how to hack up your Bonnie pattern. So are you ready to give your Bonnie pattern a little twist?

Today we'll be talking about how to modify the View A neckband into a tie neck version. By simply lengthening the neckband you can recreate this vintage look.

For the tie neck version I'd recommend using a lighter weight jersey. For example, my sample is sewn in a soy/cotton blend. Any jersey that you'd consider to be T-shirt weight will work fine. Thicker jerseys may be difficult to turn the narrow tie area right side out.

You'll need to use the crew neckline of view A for the Tie neck version. Either length of the pattern is fine. For my sample I've used view A's body combined with the sleeves from view C.

Materials needed - Bonnie pattern, trace paper, ruler (a clear one is best), pen/pencil, scissors.

Drafting Instructions

Step 1. Put trace paper over the view A neckband and trace the two horizontal sides and the edge with the fold.

Step 2. On the other vertical end draw notches at your selected size.

Step 3. Extend the neckband out another 19 inches.. You can reduce this length if you'd like a shorter tie. If the tie is too wide to fit on your fabric, then add seam allowance to the CB edge so that the tie can be cut in two pieces.

Step 4. Since the tie was traced off the original neckband it already has seam allowance added. Add a grain line to the pattern and cut it out to finish.

Sewing instructions
Step 1. Sew the shoulders of the body together.

Step 2. If you've split the tie into two pieces sew them together at the CB.

Step 3. Fold the tie in half horizontally and sew the edges up to the notch mark on both sides.

Step 4. Turn the tie ends right side out.

Step 5. Match the middle of the tie to the CB notch on the neckline. Position the tie notches on either side of the CF notch on the neckline. It's fine to leave a little space since the knot of the bow will cover it.

Step 6. Sew the necktie together with the neckline, starting and stopping at the necktie notches.

Step 7. Continue on with the regular sewing instructions for Bonnie starting with gathering and then setting the sleeves.

After you're finished, tie your Bonnie in a jaunty bow and channel your inner feisty librarian. Happy Sewing

-Heather

The Bonnie sew-along

2014-12-03T12:19:00.002+11:00

Woo hoo! We're at the fun part, all those cool prizes are now up for grabs!
Entries for the Bonnie sew-along are now open.
Read on for all you need to know.

From today you can start sharing your photos of your finished Bonnie's to be in the running to win the cool prizes. You will have until the 10th of December to upload them, then entries will close and i'll start rounding them up so the voting to begin! Which will begin on the 12th of December through to the 15th December. Winners will be announced on the 16th of December here on the blog - just in time for your prizes to be shipped for Christmas!

You can share your pics on the Facebook sew-along group, Flickr Use the hastag #bonniesewalong on Instagram or Twitter (remember to tag @bluegingerdoll) or you can email me your pics directly.

Abby

The Bonnie sew-along #5 - Finishing touches!

2014-12-02T11:19:00.000+11:00

Today is the final post in the Bonnie sew-along!

Let's get started straight away onto the finishing touches of our Bonnie's.

SLEEVE HEMS - VIEW A

View A has the gorgeous ( i think) flutter sleeves that need a small hem to allow to keep this shape and move freely. You can either use a narrow zigzag stitch or a long straight stitch on this sleeve hem. Simply fold the edge of each sleeve to the wrong side by 1/4'' (6mm) and press down. Stitch both sleeve hems down. Give each sleeve hem a good press on the right side.

VIEW B & C SLEEVE HEMS

Fold each sleeve hem to the wrong side by 1/2'' (13mm) and press. Top stitch each sleeve hem in place by using a twin/double needle or a long stretch stitch. Press each sleeve on the right side.

VIEW A & B WAISTBAND

Fold your waistband piece in half lengthwise with the right sides together. Stitch the two short ends together. Once you've done this, fold the waistband double lengthwise with the wrong sides together.

Remember how we divided the neckline band and bodice neckline into fourths with pins? We're going to do exactly the same thing with the waistband piece and bodice hem. You can check out that post here.

Same again with how we attached our neckline bands, we will follow the same steps with the waistband. Stitch the waistband in place by stretching it to fit the bodice hem. Be careful not to stretch the bodice hem while you sew. Press this seam.

VIEW C BODICE HEM

Same process (above) as the sleeve hems. Fold the bodice hem to the wrong side by 5/8'' (16mm) or your preferred amount and press down. Top stitch the bodice hem by using a twin/double needle or long stretch stitch. Give it a good press!

And that's it! We're done with this side of things but stay tuned for a whole heap of pattern hack posts that will have you seeing Bonnie is a whole new light and just whole versatile this pattern is.

I'll also post all the info on the voting, dates, how to post your Bonnie etc very soon.

Abby
x

THE BONNIE SEW-ALONG #4 - SLEEVES & SIDE SEAMS ( ALL VIEWS )

2014-12-01T13:25:00.000+11:00

And we're back!

And because Bonnie is such a quick and easy make we're on the home stretch of the sew-along. Yay!

If you need a refresher or are just joining in, you can find the last sew-along posts here.

Or if you need to ask a questions, show off your gorgeous fabric or simply want to hang then head over to the Facebook sew-along group and join up.

SLEEVES - ALL VIEWS

All the Bonnie versions have the subtle gathering at the sleeve head so the next few steps cover them all.

Stitch your machine to a baste stitch and stitch 2 lines of stitches along the top of each sleeve head;Between the marked notches and within the seam allowance. Leave long thread tails on each end.

Apologies i've used a light colored thread which is obviously hard to see in the photo.

Grab your bodice and with right sides together place each sleeve in flat to each bodice armhole, matching the notches on the sleeve with the notches on the bodice armhole.

Pin each sleeve place.

Stitch each sleeve in place.

Below is what you're left with.

BODICE SIDE SEAMS - ALL VIEWS

Right sides together pin the bodice side seams and sleeves together. Stitch the bodice side seams together in one continuous stitch.

TA DA! You've successfully attached your sleeves and nearly finished your Bonnie bodices!

All we have tomorrow in the final post are our sleeve and bodice hems, add the waistband if you're sewing up View A & B and we're done!

Abby

THE BONNIE SEW-ALONG #3 - START SEWING!

2014-11-29T12:29:00.001+11:00

Welcome back to the Bonnie sew-along!

Today we start sewing up our Bonnie's so hopefully you've got your sizes sorted, traced your pattern, picked, prepped and cut out your fabrics and are ready to go!

If you need a refresher or are just joining in, you can find the last sew-along posts here.

ATTACH STABILIZER TO SHOULDER SEAMS - ALL VIEWS

In the first sew-along post, 'Sewing with knits' i mentioned clear plastic tape as being an important supply to have when it comes to sewing with knit fabrics. On the Bonnie pattern we need to stablize the shoulder seams on the back bodice (only) so when you pull your Bonnie over your head these seams don't stretch out and warp.

Cut x2 pieces of the clear plastic tape slightly longer than the back bodice shoulder seams. Pin the tape to the wrong side of each back bodice shoulder seam, within the 1/4'' seam allowance. Zigzag stitch each piece of tape in place, being careful not to stretch the tape out as you stitch. You may need to practice a little bit with attaching clear plastic tape, it can be a tad finicky but after a few practice runs you should be fine. Trim the excess tape.

Grab your front bodice piece. Right sides together stitch the front bodice to the back bodice at the shoulder seams. Press the seams open.

VIEW A & B NECKLINE BAND

If you're sewing up View A& B Bonnie versions then read on to attach the neckline band.

Fold the neckline band in half lengthwise with right sides together. Stitch the two short ends together.

Now fold the neckline band lengthwise with the wrong sides together.

Divide the neckline band and the bodice neckline edge into fourths with pins.

Right sides together pin the neckline band raw to the bodice neckline raw edge, matching the pins. Place the neckline band seam at the center back of the bodice.

Stitch the neckline band in place, stretching the neckline band to fit the bodice neckline. Be careful not to stretch the bodice neckline as you stitch, stretch only the neckline band.

On the right side finish the neckline band off by top-stitching with a twin/double needle or a long straight stitch.

Give the neckline a good press on the right side.

VIEW C NECKLINE

The View C version of Bonnie has the easiest neckline to do. Simply turn the raw edge of the bodice neckline 3/8'' to the wrong side and press. On the right side finish the neckline with top-stitching by using a twin/double needle or zigzag stitch 1/4'' in the edge. Give the finished neckline a good press.

Next up we will tackle attaching our sleeves, bodice side seams and all that jazz.

Abby

THE BONNIE SEW-ALONG #2

2014-11-27T12:49:00.002+11:00

Welcome back to the Bonnie sew-along.

If you are joining in don't forget to join the Facebook sew-along group where you'll find all the sew along posts, feel free to post your Bonnie progress shots, ask any questions you may have as well as take a peek at what others are sewing. You can also follow along on Instagram and Twitter just use hashtag #bonniesewalong.

Choosing your fabric

Recommended fabrics for Bonnie are stable light-medium weight jersey/knit fabrics such as merino wool, sweater knits, jerseys, cotton blends etc. As usual you can find this list on the back of the pattern envelope. You just need to keep in mind the stretch 40%-50% that the pattern is recommended for. Yesterday's sew-along post i briefly touched on the topic of sewing with good quality knit fabrics for Bonnie or any other knit pattern you plan on sewing up so keep this mind too when out fabric shopping.

Some of the fabric i used i sourced locally at some of the below places:

The Remnant warehouse

Darn Cheap Fabrics

The Cloth Shop

Rathdowne Fabrics

These all have a great selection of knit fabrics.

If you're already a knit fabric hoarder then you probably already have your favorite places to buy awesome knit fabric, if you do and would like to share them feel free to leave a comment below so we build a resource list together...

That's if you want to share your gems :)

Supplies & Tools you'll need

Back to yesterday's post again, i listed a few of the tools and supplies you need to have to sew up knit fabrics, these also apply to sewing up the Bonnie pattern.

* Main fabric

* Matching Thread*2 1/2 yards of 1/4'' (6mm) clear plastic tape
* Ball point needles
*Optional: Twin needle for hemming
*Optional: Ribbing fabric for neckband & waistband

* Pins

* Pattern weights
*Rotary cutter and Self healing mat ( optional)

* Tracing paper & Pencil

* Sharpie/Marker

And obviously your copy of the Bonnie pattern ( Paper or PDF) ready to go.
You can pick up a copy here.

CHOOSE YOUR SIZE

Choosing you size for Bonnie is just the same as if you would pick your size for a woven pattern. Simply measure your Bust, waist and hips.

Bust measurement: Measure around the fullest point of your bust, wearing whatever type of bra or undergarment you plan on wearing under your Bonnie sweater.
Waist measurement: Is at your natural waist. On many people this is the smallest point of your torso.

Hip measurement: The fullest part of your hips and butt. Typically this is approximately 7″ below your natural waist, but this differs on everyone. This measurement isn't too important on the Odette dress due to the skirt being flared and skimming over the hips and butt, make measure it anyway just to be on the safe side.

You may need a hand and have someone help you take your measurements, especially the bust, as having your arms up and holding the tape can affect the measurement slightly.

I ran through choosing your sizing, dealing with being in between sizes, tracing your pattern and whole heap of other tips in the previous Odette sew-along i ran here on the blog. To save this post being super long and wordy you can check out this post and read up on all this info in more detail, if you need to. Read up on prepping and cutting out your fabric here as well if you need to.

If you need some inspiration for your Bonnie then check out the Pinterest Board I've set up with some lovely stuff in it. Feel free to add your own Bonnie inspiration too.

Abby

Gather up all your fabric, tools and supplies, choose your size, trace your pattern, prep and cut out your fabric cause we will be start to sew up our Bonnie's tomorrow!

SEWING TUTORIAL: SOME TIPS FOR SEWING WITH KNITS ( BONNIE SEW-ALONG #1)

2014-11-26T18:27:00.001+11:00

Welcome to the Bonnie sew-along! To start it off and get us in the in the mood for sewing Bonnie up and using knits fabric I've collated a little list of handy tips for sewing especially with knit fabrics. This is a handy little guide may help those of you who are a little hesitant
( or scared) of sewing with knits fabrics or those who may need a refresher.

SEWING KNITS WITH A REGULAR SEWING MACHINE

When sewing up knits overlockers tend to be the machine that comes to mind. They're fast, neat and handle stretch fabrics with ease. But what if you don't have one?
Then simply ask yourself this question..

Does your sewing machine have a zigzag stitch?

If you answered yes then you can easily sew up knit fabrics using your sewing machine. For those of you who answered No, most sewing machines do have some sort of zigzag stitch on them. You may need to take a closer look and have a bit of tinker.

The Bonnie sewing pattern is also written assuming you are using a regular machine.

STITCHES TO USE ON YOUR SEWING MACHINE

You've found your zigzag stitch on your machine...Make friends with it. If you're having trouble finding it, it basically looks like a lighting bolt diagram on your machine.
Test out your machine's zigzag stitch on some scrap fabric,
as i said above make friends with it.

TOOLS YOU'LL NEED

Getting the right tools is another handy tip to get you on the right track with sewing with knits on your sewing machine.

Use ball point needles when sewing up knit fabric. Their tips are slightly rounded, which means they push between the loops of the fabric, rather than pierce little holes, which isn't what you want for knit fabrics.

Grab yourself a twin needle as well. They can be used for top stitching, hems and pockets etc

If your fabric is super stretchy then grab some stretch needles for this type of fabric.

You can also dip your toes into the world of presser feet for your machine when sewing with knits. You don't have to of course, you can sew with a regular machine foot just change the needles. But if you do decide that presser feet tickle your fancy then take a look at walking foot or dual feed foot which are useful for helping to prevent one layer of fabric from stretching out while sewing. They basically grip the fabric and feed both layers of fabric through the machine at the same speed.

Last but not least. Pins. If you can get your hands on ball point pins then do so, if not your everyday pins are fine just take care when using them that you don't leave holes in your fabric.

Knit fabrics are slippery suckers and cutting them out can be a task in itself. So if you can pick yourself up a rotary cutter and self healing mat. You'll be cutting out knit fabrics faster than lightening and more accurately. Mind you, sharp scissors and a steady hand work just as well. Pattern weights are also a handy thing to use when cutting out the fabric either with the rotary cutter and mat or scissors. Using pins can be a bit of a handful as you can easily pull and distort the fabric as you pin the pattern down.

OTHER NECESSITIES

One more little supply you need is clear plastic tape. This awesome supply will help you to stabilize those shoulder and waistline seams ( or anywhere you need it) preventing stretching out of the fabric in these areas. You can also use it make gathers or simply hold them in place, such as on the Violet pattern at the bust gathers.

FABRIC QUALITY

When sewing with knit fabrics couple of important points are to pick out good quality knits to work with. Nothing will dampen your knit fabric love affair then when you use a cheap quality fabric and the end garment looks like s***. This may take practice to work out though, i have in my time worked with a whole heap of poor quality knit fabric eventually you'll be able to tell the good from the bad. A good tip to keep in mind when shopping for fabrics is to shop with your hands. Feeling the fabric will help you learn about its texture, weight, transparency etc
So touch that fabric!

GRAINLINES

Its imperative to take note of the grainlines on knit fabrics and thankfully its an easy thing to find. You want your stretch to run horizontally across the body, not vertical. For neck/sleeve bands, the stretch needs to run the length of the band.

STRETCH PERCENTAGE AND HOW TO TEST

The Bonnie pattern is intended for knit fabrics that have at least 40% - 50% across the grain, plus good stretch recovery. To test your chosen fabrics stretch percentage and stretch recovery simply cut a 2'' strip of your fabric and roughly to 1'' high. Stretch it lengthwise making sure it approaches 3'' ( stretch capacity); when you let it go it should fling back to its original size ( stretch recovery); measure the piece to check. Doing this will also help you become more familiar with different types of knits fabrics, how they behave, what to use and what to steer clear of.

FINISHING TECHNIQUES

Knits rarely fray so ultimately you don’t have to finish the seams, unlike on woven fabrics. As usual pressing your finished seams on knit fabrics will, just the same as on a woven garment make it a whole lot neater and professional looking when done.

WHAT NOT TO DO

When sewing with knit fabrics be very mindful of not stretching out the fabric while you sew. This can take some practice but you'll know you've done it when you've finished stitching and check your work and its pulled and stretch out in the areas where you've pulled too hard while feeding it through the machine. This being said though,when stitching on your neckline bands, cuffs and hem bands you will actually stretch them to fit the neckline, sleeve, bodice waistband etc

Also when cutting out your fabric don't let it hang over the edge if the table or wherever you're cutting it out. This again will easily stretch it out of shape.

There's a slew of information out there in the inter webs about sewing with knit fabrics, this post has really just the tip of the knit fabric iceberg and to kick off the Bonnie sew-along. If you are new to the knit fabric game, like anything it just takes practice to help you get familiar with the nature of this type of fabric. Hopefully the above tips will help you on your way to having a great love affair with it.

If you plan to join in or simply want to lurk then you can follow the sew-along on the Bluegingerdoll Facebook sew-along page where you can pop up your progress photos, ask questions or find answers to your questions and find all the sew-along post as they get posted. You can also check out the sew-along happenings on the usual places such as Instagram, Twitter or the Flickr group.
Simply use the hashtag #Bonniesewalong to join in all the sew-along fun.

If you need a refresher on why you need to sew-along then check out the post here on all the fab prizes you could win.

Do you have any sewing with knits tip you'd like to share? Then drop us a comment below!

Abby
x

BONNIE SEW-ALONG PRIZES! WIN STUFF!

2014-11-21T15:49:00.003+11:00

I mentioned in the Bonnie sew-along announcement post the other day i may possibly have some rad prizes and i think i've come up with the goods for y'all.

If you're planning on joining in then check out the below prizes that are up for grabs.

First up, if you're the lucky first prize winner there's an awesome pack from the lovely Sunni from A fashionable stitch. This pack is all you need to sew up another special Bonnie for yourself, all handpicked by Sunni from her fabulous shop.

2 yards Art Gallery Winged Jersey Knit

1 matching spool of thread

1 pack of fusible stay tape for the shoulders

1 pack jersey needles

Second prize is a super generous one from SewBox UK.

Your choice of either:

£20 voucher to spend on the website or
1m of fabric of your choice from the website

Third prize is a very generous gift voucher for you to spend at Girl Charlee.

$35 Gift voucher to Girl Charlee

Fourth place is a rad prize from the Indie Stitches shop.

Your choice of:

Any x 2 downloadable PDF digital patterns
from Indie Stitches

Hope all these very generous prizes wet your appetite to join in?!

The Bonnie sew-along will start on 26th of November and finish up on the 3rd of December. Once we're all done then simply upload your finished Bonnie's either to the Flickr group, Bluegingerdoll Facebook sew-along page or however you wish to get a pic of your final make so i can round them post them here on the blog so the voting can begin! I'll release final details about all of this closer to the end of the sew-along, so just think about picking your fabric for your prize winning Bonnie.

If you plan to join in or simply want to lurk then you can follow the sew-along on the Bluegingerdoll Facebook sew-along page where you can pop up your progress photos, ask questions or find answers to your questions and find all the sew-along post as they get posted.
You can also check out the sew-along happenings on the usual places such as Instagram, Twitter or the Flickr group. Simply use the hashtag #Bonnie to join in all the sew-along fun.

Hope you can join in.

Abby

INTRODUCING THE VIOLET DRESS!

2014-11-19T13:31:00.000+11:00

Here she is, the gorgeous Violet dress!

'Violet is your essential little knit dress. Its comfortable and stylish as well as quick and easy to sew. Featuring a bodice with multiple yoke detailing on the front and back bodices and a set of subtle and alluring gathers at the bust line. View A features a pencil skirt with 3/4 sleeves, View B features a mini skirt with cap sleeves and View C features a flared, knee length skirt that skims perfectly over the hips.

Mix and match the skirt and sleeve variations to create your very own individual and unique Violet dress, that will match any season and occasion.'

VIEW A
Hug and flatter those curves with View A.
Featuring a comfortable but fitted pencil skirt with 3/4 sleeves.

VIEW B

Show off those pins with View B.
Featuring a mini skirt and cap sleeves.

VIEW C

Feel effortlessly pretty and glamorous in View C.
Featuring a flared, knee length circle skirt that skims perfectly over the hips and long sleeves ( please note: image below depicts 3/4 sleeves).

Not only can you put your individual stamp on Violet by mixing and matching the sleeve and skirt options but you can also get creative with the yoke detailing on the front and back bodices by using contrasting fabrics to highlight them and make Violet your very own.

View C with contrasting fabric on the front and back yokes.

Its such a comfortable dress to wear and so versatile. Layer it up in the cooler months with tights, boots and cute cardigan or a lighter breathable jersey fabric for the warmer days.

Designed for a beginner sewer and available in the size range of: 4-24.

Violet is available now as a PDF download only .
Pre-order your paper version of the pattern now, the ship date for these will be
late November/Early December.

To celebrate the release of Violet please enjoy a 10% discount off

until the 26/11/2014 midnight (AEST).

Simply use the the coupon code: VIOLET at the checkout.

Abby

xxx

P.S A jam packed sew-along will happen in the new year.

ANNOUNCING THE BONNIE SEW-ALONG

2014-11-18T15:08:00.000+11:00

Announcing the official Bonnie sew-along!

The Bonnie sew-along will start on 26th of November and finish up on the 3rd of December.

It will be jam packed with tips on sewing with knits, a whole heap of really awesome pattern hacks as well as a heaps of other tutorials so you can sew up an army of Bonnie's for yourself.

If you plan to join in then you can follow the sew-along on the Bluegingerdoll Facebook sew-along page where you can feel free to pop up your progress photos, ask questions or find answers to your questions.
You can also check out the sew-along happenings on the usual places such as Instagram, Twitter or the Flickr group. Simply use the hashtag #Bonnie to join in all the sew-along fun.

There may also possibly be some really rad prizes to giveaway, so keep stay tuned for that announcement in the coming days.

Good times ahead, hope you can join in.

Abby x

Bonnie paper pattern has arrived! (+10% OFF)

2014-11-14T17:37:00.003+11:00

Yay, the Bonnie paper pattern has finally arrived and is now available in the shop!

In case you missed out on the sale when it was first released please enjoy 10% off
until the 19th of November 2014 (aest).

Simply use the coupon code: BONNIEPAPER to take advantage!
Discount applies to both the PDF & PAPER versions of the pattern.

Thanks for your patience folks!

Abby

Tutorial: How to make thread belt loops

2014-10-24T12:13:00.003+11:00

I don't know about you but i'm a big fan of adding belts to skirts and dresses either to change up an outfit or add something a little extra special. I do this a lot with fit and flare dresses, which in their own right accentuate the small of the waist but i find wearing a cute thin belt with them flatters even more. In saying this though, there is nothing worse than wearing a belt and having it either too tight, which pulls at the fabric or wearing it too loose and it keeps on slipping down. Your answer to this little conundrum is: Thread belt loops.

They're a cinch to make and you'll be making a heap in no time!

Cut yourself 6 strands of thread roughly about 5'' long each.

On your machine change your stitch to zig zag, use a stitch width of 4 and a stitch length of 1. Simply zig zag over six strands of thread while holding them taut.

When sewing the thread loop, pull on both ends of the threads while sewing slowly. This helps you keep them in place as the needle zig zags over them.

Below is what you'll end up with when done.

Close up.

With a large eye needle, thread the thread loop through the eye.

This is a little tricky and might take a bit of working to pull it through.

Below is the final belt loop attached to my Odette dress, simply just threaded through at the side seams.

Grab your favourite belt and thread it your new belt loops.

Not only can you make these and use them as belt loops you can also use them as french tacks on lined garments or as lingerie guards.

Abby

PERFECT PATTERN PARCEL - #6

2014-10-20T08:59:00.003+11:00

Have you heard of Perfect Pattern Parcel? Well if not it's a brilliant online pattern popup shop that simultaneously supports children’s education and independent pattern designers. For two weeks at a time, a carefully put-together parcel of sewing patterns goes on sale, each with a specific theme and available for only two weeks. You pay as much as you like for your parcel, and if you choose to pay above a certain threshold, you unlock a bonus sewing pattern.

Pattern Parcel #6 has just gone on sale AND I'm very excited and honored to have the Odette dress included in this fab pattern parcel alongside some other pretty rad indie designers.

The entire Pattern Parcel #6 includes all the fab patterns below:

Syrah Skirt by Lauren Dahl
Bronte Top by Jennifer Lauren
Julia Cardigan by Mouse House Creations
Hudson Pant by True Bias
Zsalya Dress by Kate and Rose

This is a big bunch of easy to sew and wear patterns.

If all the above patterns don't make you immediately purchase the parcel then give a thought to this... The proceeds from each sale go to support Donors Choose, an organization that matches up the needs of teachers and their students for specific projects with willing donors. The funds raised from each Pattern Parcel sale will go to help K-12 students in minimizing educational inequality and encourage a community where children have the tools and experiences necessary for an excellent education. From pencils for poetry to microscopes for mitochondria, your support will help address educational inequality and grow generations to come. To date, Perfect Pattern Parcels have raised over $13,000! This is the most awesome aspect of these Pattern Parcels and such a worthy cause :)

To top off all this awesome-ness there is the bonus pattern in the parcel. All you need to do to grab the bonus pattern is simply choose a price of $32 or greater for Parcel #6 and you will automatically also be sent the
Bonus Pattern:
The Odette dress

So if you do the maths it works out to be only $5 a pattern... High fives to that!

All you need to do is simply click on the button below and you'll be able to start purchasing your Pattern Parcel ASAP.

This rad Pattern Parcel runs through until October 31st.

Enjoy!

Abby
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