photo source: style.com

If you are like me, there are 6 seasons in a year. And right now, it’s fashion week season! I have been following along and even though NY Fashion week hasn’t even wrapped up, it’s pretty obvious that fur will carry through to next season! Faux fur – pretty please!

It feels so validating as we launched our Lux Vest pattern in late December. We truly think every little girl should have one! One yard of the fuzzy goodness will yield two of those adorable vests. For our photoshoot I made two identical vests for our two models. They are really good friends (so are their moms) and whenever they show up in their partner gear, people literally stop us to ask where they got the vests!

It’s a super quick sew and the best part is to see people’s jaws drop when you tell them that it’s handmade! Yay!

Just browsing the web a bit I found these other options for kids:

collage: Babycenter

Babycenter put this trend alert-fur-vests on their blog.

photo: Pink Chicken

Or this cute little combo here by Pink Chicken…

…which reminds me so of this funky vest Regina made from our pattern!

crew cuts fur vest

How adorable is the crew cuts vest with a satin ribbon around the waist?

Threads Magazine has a sewing school article about how to put together the fantasy fur jacket.

We also found some great online resources that stock a wonderful array of faux fur for this fuzzy pleasure:

- Fabric Depot stocks the fur I used.
- Fabric.com has some great long pile as well as short hair fur.
- Fabric Empire is running a sale on furs right now.
- I’m stuffed fur has some really great ones too!

Now, get your vacuum out (trust us, you’ll need it!), get ahead of the curve and sew one (or make that two!). We’d love to see the results on our flickr group!

I have a very opinionated little girl.

Over the last years I have learned that with kids everything is a phase. Right now, my daughter is going through an intense phase of not wearing anything but dresses. Pink dresses I might add. I surrendered – getting her into separates is a fight not worth fighting.

I love the Ayashe blouse and how quickly it goes together. How lovely would it be as a tunic or dress? Have you wondered the same? Here a little tutorial on how to lengthen the style.

Here is what I used:

1. Swedish Tracing Paper – I love that stuff and it literally revolutionized my sewing – I am not kidding. It doesn’t tear like regular paper or tracing paper, will cling to the fabric, so there is no need to pin the pattern to the fabric AND it totally eliminates the need to carefully cut the pattern pieces prior to cutting into the fabric! Besides that it folds/stores well and can be ironed. A total time saver and therefore a win in my book!

2. Vary Form Rulers – a set of curved rulers that helps strike beautiful curves and is indispensable for paper pattern making. Easier on the budget though is this styling ruler that’s kind of all-in-one if you are just starting out to make pattern adjustments.

3. C-Thru Ruler – a straight ruler that is a little easier to handle then a quilting ruler. Yet the later would work the same and if you go with the aforementioned styling ruler, you’ll be set anyways.

4. Pencil

5. Measuring tape (not shown – it hung around my neck while I took the picture )

6. The Ayashe pattern, of course.

The pattern weights are optional and I only used them to accurately trace the blouse pattern from the pattern sheet.

Now let’s get to it: Lengthening the main body parts of the Ayashe blouse.

Can you see my traced blouse pattern piece lying underneath my tracing paper? If you want to start out with the tunic length right away, make sure to start tracing you pattern towards the top edge of your tracing paper to leave enough space to lengthen the hem, at least 9″ though.

First, elongate the Center Front (CF – that’s the straight line, not the curved one) in a straight line.

Measure 6″ (for size 2/3 and 4/5) down along the extended CF line, and mark with with the pencil.

Here what we recommend per size for a dress ending above the knee:
5″ (18mos)
6″ (2/3 and 4/5)
7″ (6/7) and
7.5″ (8/9).

Generally, if you want the outcome to be longer, add a bit more as it is so much easier to shorten, then to lengthen a garment.

At the marking, draw a line in a right angle towards the side seam. It’s important that this line is at a right angle – otherwise you’ll end up with a funky point or dip in your garment.

Now on to the side seam. With your Vari-form or Styling ruler, find a curve you feel will elongate the existing curve nicely. Cut the little corner like shown above to create a nice line. Don’t worry too much, there is no single ‘right’ curve here. Yet, be careful as to let the curve swing out too much as it will be harder to hem a very dramatic shape at the end.

Now, measure along the new side seam beginning with the original hem, the same length you measured along the CF and mark on that line. In my case, it’s again 6″.

Then strike a short line in a right angle towards the CF and let it cross the straight hem line.  Again, drawing a right angle at the side seam will ensure your side seams will sew together without a weird angle poking out or dipping in.

Use your Vary-Form or French Curve and find a smooth curve connecting the new hem line with the right-angle-line we just drew.

Your new hem line is almost finished! Final steps is to measure 1″ and 3/4″ up from the new hem line. Mark both.

Lay your ruler parallel to the CF, intersecting the 1″ mark – as shown above,  and transfer the 3/4″ mark down to the new hem line.

Join this with the 1″ marking. This little angle will help eliminate excess fabric when you hem the dress.
Repeat the same steps with the back piece of the Ayashe and….

TADA!
Your new dress pattern is finished!
Well done!

Curious to see how mine turned out? Here’s the final outcome of my pattern adjustment.
A happy camper in a pink floral dress made out of Liberty Art fabric.

Need any tips beyond the instruction booklet on how to put your dress together? Don’t forget about Shelly’s three part sew along Ayashe post here, here and here! Also did you see Jen’s gorgeous hand embroidery for Valentine here? Now, we can’t wait to see how your Ayashe turned out? Please share on our flickr group.

On a side note: Do you love Liberty Fabrics as much as we do? We are preparing a little surprise give away on this blog – so come back again soon!

]]> http://figgyspatterns.com/2012/02/ayashe-how-to-lengthen-the-blouse-to-a-tunic-or-dress-length/feed/ 5 http://figgyspatterns.com/2012/02/just-in-time-for-valentines-day/ http://figgyspatterns.com/2012/02/just-in-time-for-valentines-day/#comments Fri, 10 Feb 2012 12:31:17 +0000 Shelly Figueroa http://figgyspatterns.com/?p=861

Today we have a special guest, a dear friend and very talented sewist Jen Carlton Bailly!  Jen had stitched up some cuteness during the sew along and we are so pleased she’s is sharing with all of us!  I won’t keep you waiting…..

From Jen:

It’s not a secret that I love sewing patterns from Figgy’s.  They are simple, clean, modern and easy.  The Ayashe was no exception. When I read this, “You love your little one and one way you express your love is by hand tailoring a beautiful wardrobe especially for her”, from the front of the Ayashe Pattern I was so inspired to make something beautiful for my daughter. Amelia has so many prints in her closet, so I thought using simple red linen that I had stashed away for something special would be perfect.

While sewing I was reminded of a little shop in Seattle that used to sell clothes from Europe. All of the hand stitching was so beautiful.  Then it came to me, I’ll add a little hand stitching to the front of this to give it a little pop, and it would be perfect for Valentines Day! Below are instructions for how you can do this to your blouse too!

Supplies:

Embroidery floss- I used three strands of white DMC

Hand sewing needle

Water Soluble pen

Ruler

Step One:

Using a ruler and a water-soluble marking pen, make a straight line up the front of your blouse and in between the stitch lines. Carry the line gently to form the heart. I just free handed.

Step Two:

Thread your needle, and tie a knot.  Starting about ½ inch from the start of your line, insert your needle in between the layers of the front and the back of the blouse. Pull your floss all the way through and gently tug on it to pop the knot in-between the layers of fabric.

Step Three:

Using a small running stitch (Pass the needle in and out of the fabric, making the surface stitches of equal length) follow the line that you marked. My stitching was about a ¼ inch.

Continue into the heart. At your last stitch tie a knot and pull it through the fabric the same way you began. 

Step Four:

Repeat on other side.  Spritz marks with water.

Give to a little one you love.

Thank you so much Jen, and thank you A for being so cute!

I hope you are all inspired to add special touches to your Ayashe blouse as I am.

  Remember to add your photos to our flickr group or facebook page!

Welcome to the last day of the Ayashe blouse sew along.  It went too fast, that just shows us, that even with all of the wonderful details in this blouse, it is a simple pattern but still tastefully contemporary.

Today we will set in the sleeves and finish the hem.

SLEEVES

I accidentally forgot to take photos of how I hemmed the sleeves.  I got excited, and moved on to the next step.  I am making the 18mo size and I found that turning the raw edge of the sleeve hem 1/8″ twice was sufficient and left room for the sleeve to attach to the body.  There is still room if you choose to turn the hem 1/4″ twice, but I wanted extra room to set in the sleeves.

I also hemmed the sleeves before I set them.  The reason why is because I find it easier to do this first rather than last for toddler size patterns.  The reason why most don’t instruct sewists to do this is if you look at the photos above you’ll see that I hemmed and pressed my seam open, but it won’t stay flat permanently. To fix this I tacked the seam allowance.  It won’t show and it fixes the issue.

See.

To set in the sleeve you will first turn the garment wrong side out.  Insert the sleeves right side facing the right side of the blouse.  Align the markings and underarm seam with the side seam and pin.  You’ll see that it fits perfectly, ahhh.

The trick to setting a sleeve in little sizes is not trying to wrap the sleeve around the machine bar but place the presser foot into the sleeve itself.  As you can see above I am sewing on the wrong side of the sleeve inside the sleeve cap.  The machine will take me full circle without any drama.

Pink and press.

BOTTOM HEM

I chose the elastic hem because Ofelia is still young enough to pull the drawstring out of the casing over and over again just for fun.  My sister would have to re thread it over and over again, not for fun.  Also, I am an awesome sister by thinking of her.

First, turn the bottom hem 1/4″ and press.  Turn again 1″, press and pin.  Leave a 1″ opening to feed the elastic through the casing.  I left my opening at the side seam where stitches will be less obvious.  I am without a bodkin so I used a safety pin to thread the elastic through the casing.  Make sure not to twist the elastic and don’t let the tail get swallowed or you’ll have to re thread.  Overlap the ends of the elastic and stitch together.  Sew the opening closed.

How much elastic should you use?  Good question.  My neice’s waist is 20″ so I cut 15″ of elastic that has a good amount of stretch.  It stretched to 30″.  I would go by your child’s waist measurement and deduct the amount necessary for the amount of elasticity the elastic has.

For the Draw String method:

On the wrong sides of the shirt hem fuse a 3″ piece of interfacing to the blouse on the center bottom front hem.  Sew buttonholes 1/4″ to the left and right of  the center front. Refer to day 2 on how to prepare the bias tape.  Once you’ve press the tape in half, stitch down both edges.  Knot the ends of the tape.  Feed the tape/string into one buttonhole, around the hem line and out the other.

All Done!  Nice work.

Want to see mine?

Back Detail.  My wooden hangers are curved which is causing the back to look a bit “hump back”.  I need to purchase some flat hangers.

I don’t know about you but I LOVE IT!

I hope you find this sew along to be helpful as you sew your adorable blouse.    Please come back again tomorrow because we have a very special guest hosting a tutorial on how  to make the perfect Ayashe blouse just in time for Valentines Day!

Happy Sewing!

Welcome back to Day 2!

It is nice and bright this morning in Portland and perfect for sew along photos.

We left off yesterday with all of the pattern pieces cut, the upper collar interfaced and we gathered the front shoulders and back panel.  I think we’re ready, let’s sew!

For a larger view please click on the photo.

Front Seam

Before sewing the center front seam it is best to measure the 1 1/4″ seam allowance rather than hope for the best.  This will ensure a nice straight line.

Sew the center front seam from the bottom hem up.  Once you reach the slit marking do a back stitch and then adjust the stitch lenth to the longest length.

Press the seam open and fold the raw edge 1/4″ under on both sides of the seam. The Ezy-Hem helper is a great way to measure this long seam so it will be nice and even.  Press flat once more.

Top stitch along both folded edges.  Top stitch again centered between the seam alowance and the stitch line.  Now you may notice I am not perfectly centered between the two.  Why?  Honestly?  I was being lazy.  I decided that if I aligned the presser foot with the center line it would give me a nice straight line all the way down.  You should measure between the two lines, chalk and topstitch.

Shoulder Panels

Align the markings, distribute the gathers evenly and pin.  Sew the seam.

Remove the gathers.  I like to press the seam up on the wrong side and then press again on the right side for a nice clean pressed look.

Repeat with the front shoulder panels.

The shoulder panels are now sewn, pressed and ready for the facing.  Using a seam gauge fold the seam allowances 1/2″ towards the wrong side and press.  As you may already know I have an obsession with “Wondertape”.  Karen and I used to buy it by the box.   I use it for so many things.  In this case, I’m using it to hold the shoulder panel facing in place on the wrong side when I top stitch on the right side.

If you don’t know what “Wondertape” is (for some reason whenever I say the word I want to shout it out like Oprah when she would shout out the name of her guest.) then I’ll quickly tell you.  It is wash away double sided tape.  Place the tape on top of the seam allowance, then place the shoulder panel facing on top of the seam allowance.  Other options are to baste the panel in place or use pins.  On the right side of the garment top stitch in the seam (stitch in the ditch) or next to the seam.  I aligned my 1/8″ marker on the presser foot along the seam and top stitched.  Remove any baste stitches if used.

Repeat on the back.

Collar Time

Begin by stay-stitching the neck opening.

We have two collar options: Mandarin Collar or Tie String.  I’m going to take you through both.

MANDARIN COLLAR

Press the bottom raw edge of the outer collar (upper) 3/8″ towards the wrong side.  Align the raw edges of the inner and outer collar and stitch along the short and long edges.  Trim the seam allowance to 1/4″ and clip along the curve. This will help reduce bulk and give you a nice smooth finish.

Align the collar raw edges with the neck opening and markings.  Pin and stitch.  Trim the seam allowance to 1/4″.  Turn the collar towards the wrong side of the garment and smooth the edges.  I used a dull pencil to do this but you can use a turning tool or a knitting needle, just don’t use anything pointy and sharp.

Once again, I found another use for my “wondertape” (no they don’t pay us to advertise, but they should).  Included in each pattern you purchase is a lovely woven label.  These labels will give the garment that professional touch and they can also serve as hooks to hang the garment (like the Nituna Jacket).  I placed the tape along the seam and then placed the label on top.  Sandwich the Figgy’s label between the blouse and the collar and be sure the seam allowance is tucked inside.

Pin and top stitch. Done, unless your hosting a sew along and you need to show the alternative collar option.  A little seam ripping and then we’ll be ready.

TIE STRING COLLAR

Yesterday I shared a wonderful “how to” link for making bias tape and if you read it you’ll notice in my photo I cheated a little today.  For good reason though!  I love selvedge on Japanese fabric.  Some of them are really unique and I really wanted to use this for the tie string, so I did.  Press the bias tape in 1/2.  Fold both sides in toward the center crease and press.  I also folded and pressed mine once more to ensure a nice clean crease.

Turn the garment wrong side out, open the bias tape and align the right side of the bias tape raw edge and the wrong side of the blouse. Leave an equal amount of tie string hanging off each end of the neck slit.  Pin and stitch.  Use the same method as the mandarin collar mentioned above to attach the label.

Fold the tape in half wrong sides together, press and top stitch from one end to the other.  Tie each tie string end in a small decorative knot.

The last thing I did was sew a little bar tack at the bottom of the neck slit.  I did this for extra security. A backstitch should suffice but I wanted just a little more security for the times when Ofelia wants to pull her blouse on herself toddler style.

Look, it’s almost a shirt!

It’s beginning to rain now which is perfect timing because day two is complete.  Well Done!

See you tomorrow to finish our Ayashe blouse!

Happy Sewing!

ps.  Did you happen to catch Daniela’s comment yesterday?  She’s got something gorgeous to show us very soon and you will see she gave us a small piece of her design wisdom.

Welcome to the first day of the sew along!  If you are just now joining us please feel free to jump in at any time!  Who knows, maybe you’ll learn something new by just reading along?  Today we are just going to cut and prepare our work for tomorrow’s sewing, but first if you don’t mind, I’d like to start by answering one frequently asked question.

Why is the pattern printed on both sides?

1. We print our patterns on both sides using recycled newsprint to save paper waste. Less paper also means lighter shipping which means less shipping cost for you!  You can trace the pattern using tracing paper, freezer paper or any paper that is translucent.

2. Tracing the pattern allows you to use the pattern over and over again as your daughters or granddaughters grow, and they do grow fast. If you were to cut the pattern you would only get one size out of the pattern and that’s not good for anyone.

3.  Personal preference.  Tissue paper patterns tend to rip easily and the print fades with time.

I hope this answers your question, but if you have more, please feel free to email us.

Let’s get started!

For a larger view please click on the photos.

The very first thing you should do before anything else (if possible) is measure your child.  Every designer and label has their own unique sizing, which means your daughter may measure to be a Figgy’s size 3, but for another pattern she may be a 2.  You’ll find the sizing chart on the back of the pattern cover.

When preparing this sew along I noticed a tiny typo in the sizing chart.  The Chest measurement for size 2/3 should read 21 – 21.5.  We apologize for any confusion.

For this blouse you’ll want to take a chest and waist measurement.  If you have decided to make the long sleeve version, I would also measure from the shoulder to the wrist.  What happens if your daughter is between sizes?  I always recommend going bigger before going smaller, because tomorrow they’ll probably awake .5″ taller, and of course their bellies grow after every meal.

Fabric.

  Gosh, I love it!  For this blouse I chose to use a Japanese Lawn cloth by Yuwa because it’s one of my favorite fabrics to work with. It will drape well and the fabric hand is perfect for my niece’s sensitive skin.

Tracing the pattern.

 A little lesson I learned from Sarai & Caitlin at Colette patterns is using colored pencils to trace.   They really are perfect for the job.  I use one color to trace the outer main pattern piece and another color for my markings.

 So here we have traced all the pieces we need for our Ayashe of choice.  As you can see I’ve decided to make the Ayashe with the Mandarin Collar and short sleeves.  I am still undecided as to whether or not I’d like the drawstring or elastic at the hem.  If you have already chosen to use the bias tape draw string you will need to cut bias tape from the fabric 1.5″ x 35″.   If you have chosen the bias tape tie string collar option you will need to also cut bias tape from the fabric that is 1.5″ x 30″.  Sarai also has one of the best bias tape tutorials I’ve seen so if you need a little help with the process please visit HERE.

 You can use weights or pins to keep the pattern from shifting.  Normally,  I would use weights and my rotary cutter, but the blade broke and I had to use pins and scissors. The reason why I suggest the rotary cutter is with this lightweight of a fabric the pattern pieces can slip easily and the scissors may leave chomp like markings.

Before I begin cutting I like to snip out the triangles on the paper.  It is important the you never snip in towards the seam allowance when cutting out the fabric pattern pieces.  You don’t want to accidently snip in too far.

Prepare the details.

Interface one of the collar pieces, this will become the Upper collar.  Remember, the “bumpy” side of the interfacing faces the wrong side of the fabric.  I use the fabric pattern piece I cut and not the paper piece, because I feel it gives a more accurate cut.

All cut and interfaced.  I’m ready to go!

 Notice I put my pattern pieces in a zip lock bag?

This is a great way to store your patterns.  Just remember to label the bag then file it away.

Last step, gathers.

Sew two rows of *gathering stitches between the notches on both the back and the front pieces.

To create *gathering stitches you simply increase the stitch length to the longest length.

*To gather simply pull both bobbin threads and slide the fabric towards the opposite direction.

That’s it for today!

See you tomorrow when we will stitch up the front and attach the shoulder panels and collar!  Happy Sewing!

I love a fun sew along.  My two favorite parts:  all the visual details of the sewing process and the gorgeous results from the sewists.  We decided that the “Ayashe” blouse will be the highlight of our first sew along because of all the little details it has to offer.  We’ll take you through learning how to gather, attach facings, adding elastic or a draw string to the hem and attaching a mandarin color.

Need a little inspiration?  Have a look at these two adorable Ayashe Blouses that popped up in the flickr group this last week created by Hemoglobin Hummingbird and Daisy Girl.

Just a touch of Liberty, perfect!

Just Lovely!

Using Tula Pink, Prince Charming was a terrific fabric choice and her daughter couldn’t be any cuter!

The sew along will begin on Wednesday, February 8th.  Don’t worry if you haven’t purchased the pattern yet, you still have time!  Order by Saturday the 4th and I’ll post the pattern priority mail.  Visit the Ayashe page for the supplies you’ll need to purchase this weekend to get started.

Daniela has created two adorable buttons for you to choose from.   Feel free to copy and paste this code onto your blog.  Email us at info@figgyspatterns.com to let us know you’re sewing along and we’ll be sure to link your blog at the end of the sew along.

Happy Sewing!

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I made this little heart last year for Franco.  I put it in his lunch box the day before Valentines day so it would be a surprise.  I loved it so much I made 25 just like it for his classmates!  It was a lot of fun and I received many emails from mothers saying how nice it was for their child to receive a handmade heart instead of the typical buy and toss kind.  Some of you may remember this from last year but the original post is lost and not yet found so I thought I’d share once more. Happy Stitching!

Supplies:

Download the Hearts template HERE!

2 – 7 x 7 felt squares

1 – 5 x 5 felt square

Red Carpet/Button Thread

Beige Carpet/Button Thread

Hand Sewing Needle

Pin and cut 2 out of the Main felt and 1 out of the Contrast felt.

Center the white heart onto one of the red hearts and pin or use a double sided tape to hold in place.  Using a running stitch, sew the heart in place.  Begin sewing down first so the knot shows.

Next up is learning how to do sew a Blanket Stitch.  I prefer visuals when learning something new so I hope this helps.  Grab a piece of scrap felt and practice first.

Thread the needle and knot one end.  Sew from behind to the front.

Loop around and sew into the first hole.

Don’t pull it tight but leave a loop.   Sew into the loop then pull tight (not too tight).

Repeat roughly 1/4″ away from the first stitch.

Ready?

Place the two red hearts on top of one another.  When you first begin, only sew along the top layer beginning about 1/2″ from the center along the right and ending 1/2″ from the center along the left.  This will leave an opening to place the love note.

Now begin to sew through both layers.

Stitch around the heart until you reach 1/2″ from the center top and then only sew along the back of the heart.

Write a cute letter to your Valentine, roll it up and slide it into the opening of the heart envelope!

 Tada!

Happy Sewing!  Figgy’s Hearts YOU!

This story begins with 1 yard of fabric, passed on to me by Susan, with a task attached: Create something really beautiful – anything you like – and once finished, it’ll be showcased at a particular store and I would have to teach a class on the item – then, the finished product would be mine.
It was a beautiful fabric.
And I knew exactly what I would want it to become.

At the same time, a warm and sunny September day, Shelly and I were meeting for lunch. I showed her the the fabric and told her what I’d like to make from it. Her eyes lit up and she responded … what if …
Then we put our heads together and started planning. It was a long lunch break and I don’t know if either of us ever expensed it (tax time people – get ready!) but the outcome was a new pattern company and this:

Nituna in the Ochoco fabric I was given,
with brown suede tape and binding details.

and then this:

Nituna reversible Jacket

The Nituna reversible jacket pattern was actually the first jacket pattern in the new Figgy’s line. I love the simplicity of the design and the versatility of the pattern. And how it can showcase double faced fabrics beautifully without strange bits and bobs that you have to live with when making a reversible style. And made up in any of the many beautiful Pendleton fabrics – you’ll create a truly show-stopping piece.

“Wait a minute!” you might say “all of this sounds super nice but where I live, I can’t even get my hands on any Pendleton fabrics”

No need to be discouraged – Pendleton has a huge store here in Portland and the staff is very nice and extremely helpful. They post most of their fabrics including (sales) on their blog – and if you have laid eyes on a specific fabric, just call them toll free 866.865.9285  and they’ll ship out to you. All the ingredients for the jacket above can be purchased at their store and they also carry the Nituna pattern.

Didn’t I mention that the pattern is very versatile?
This version here  is made up in Loden (node to my Bavarian upbringing) with a graphic quilting cotton as lining:

And this guy here is out of a thick double face polar fleece with a Sherpa like side (inside) and a flat micro fleece side (outside). I left the patch pockets unfinished with the raw edges showing which just underlines the rugged appeal of the fabric. I omitted the buttons at the front which makes for a nice, flattering drape effect.

Last but not least: The class I talked about earlier.
Portlanders and all sewistas in the vicinity: I’ll be teaching a class on the Nituan patten at the Pendleton Wollen Mills Store end of January. The price of the class includes fabric, all trims, a label and the pattern. It’s rated an advanced class as handling blanket weight fabric requires somewhat experienced hands. It’s a two session class so there will be homework in between classes. The official list is not up yet. But like us on Facebook and stay up to date once the listing is up to secure your spot. All you need to bring is yourself and your trusty sewing machine. Everything else is provided. Here the details to pencil in:

1/28 & 2/4
10am – 12pm

Pendleton Woolen Mills Store
8500 SE McLoughlin Blvd.
Portland, Oregon 97222
503.535.5786
866.865.9285 toll free

Hope to see you all and
Cheers to 2012!!!

We can’t believe 2011 is almost over and what a year!

 Will you be hosting a big party to celebrate the coming year or staying in to watch the ball drop?  Do you need the perfect addition for your little ones outfit to celebrate?  Well, we have something special for you!   As we quickly approach this new year we are very excited to introduce our first Figgy’s e-pattern: The “Lux Vest”- priced at $8, available exclusively through our website! But because giving is better then receiving – especially for all our Figgy’s friends – we’ll include the e-pattern FREE of charge with the purchase of any pattern placed on the site now through January 1, 2012! Simply use the coupon code LUX2011 at checkout for sewing fabulousness.

The Lux Vest is rated a beginner project and comes with Ohhh! and Ahhh! guarantee.  It is a quick and easy sew with tips and tricks about how to sew with faux fur and can be completed in just a couple of hours with enough time to spare to make another Sunki, Ayashe or even Nituna!  Size range 18mo – 8/9yrs

We hope you have a fun & safe night out on New Years Eve, or if you’re like me, a cozy and quiet time  with my boys (what could be better?).

Be sure that you have transferred all markings from the pattern piece onto the fabric. You can use chalk, fabric marker, snip in or clip the triangle. I’m a snipper myself.

Page 4,  Step 4 & 5:

Align the right sides of the pocket bag with the dress front and pin.  I like to start at the bottom and end at the top of the pocket when I align and pin the raw edges.  I used chalk to mark where to stop sewing if I sew with dress side facing the feed dogs.  If you are sewing with pocket facing the feed dogs there is no need for this mark.

Sew the seam and press the top corner down toward the wrong side of the pocket.

Step 6:  Right sides facing align the raw edges of the side panel and the dress front.  Align the marking on the side panel and the marking on the dress.  The top corner of the side panel will be 1/2″ longer than the dress.  This is the seam allowance and when the side panel is pressed to the back it will algin perfectly.

Step 7: Sew the seam, trim the pocket seam to an 1/8″ and snip along the curve of the side panel.

Step 8:  Turn the pocket bag to the wrong side of the dress and press flat. Topstitch

Step 9:  Turn the side panel to the back wrong sides facing.  Align the pocket bags, stitch and finish the seam.  I used pinking shears to finish the seam.  I’ve been into those lately.

Press well!

Step 10:  Top stitch the top of the side panel.

The end result:  A gift for my neice Ofelia, just in time for the grandparents visit!

Size 2/3 yr

Fabric:  Boho by Annette Tatum

Some of you have received your pattern in the post and opened it….”hey, what’s this?”, a little label just for you!   A beautiful woven label is included with every purchase of a Figgy’s pattern. A little extra bonus for you the sewist. These labels don’t only give your garment a professional finishing touch, they clearly state that the garment has been lovingly crafted by hand.

At Figgy’s we make it very easy and profitable for the boutique sewer to use our patterns.  We believe that a label not only enhances your garment but it showcases that you take pride in working with an established and trusted pattern brand.  We will do everything in our power to make sure you have a quality product in hand.  Once you fall in love with the patterns and want to make multiple garments for your shop we have label bags available to purchase.  We want to ensure your success and we know this is the perfect touch for the garment.

“Wait! my label doesn’t look like the one in the photo above?”  Don’t worry, there is a special reason for that.  If you received a pattern with a silver “Figgy’s” limited edition label (I feel a little like Mr. Wonka) that means we want to feature your garment on our blog and you’ll also receive a special coupon code for your future order!  Email a photo of the garment to info@figgyspatterns.com.  We look forward to seeing everyone’s garments so please upload them to our flickr group: www.flickr.com/groups/patternsbyfiggys

We’re counting the days awaiting the patterns arrival and I know some of you are too!  Two days ago the printer called and asked us to come down and approve the hard copy.  It was the first time in 3 years that I was asked to come to the back of the building.  Tom, John and Linda at StevensIS are amazing and they each do a great job at their job.  From the first time I walked in the door I was treated like family, and it’s funny I feel a little like family now.  It didn’t matter how small of a company we are or how small the job is, we are always treated special, and it doesn’t hurt that Linda is always super excited to see what’s next.  So what happens in the “back of the building”?  Printing of course.  Big machines, vegetable based inks and loud noises.  Loved it.  Tom took me over to where the pattern covers were being printed, he grabbed one of the prints put his hand on my shoulder and said, “kid, you’re movin up”.  Felt good to hear him say that since he’s been with me since the first bubble skirt.  He asked me to proof read and sign off.  Daniela had been in earlier and gave her approval so all I had to do was initial:

They’ve since been sent to the Die Cutters and are on their way home, well my home.  Next stop is your home!

Happy Sewing (very soon)!

That’s been the big question this week.  Everyday I receive emails asking about the fabric we used for the Sunki dress.  The fabric is an Ikat, and it seems to be popping up everywhere.

An Ikat fabric is very easy to spot because of an elaborate weaving process that results in an interesting blurred appearance and come in wonderful pattern ranges.  Ikats are more than just a trendy fabric, they’re complex with a long history.  Ikat derived from the word mengikat, meaning to tie & bind or wind around.  They achieve the blurred look through a three-step process.  Threads are first tie-dyed then woven into long narrow strips.  They are then patched together very carefully to create width.

I wish I could take the credit for finding this fabric, but it was all Daniela.  She found the fabric at a local fabric shop here in Portland, “Mill End“.  If you happen to live in Portland and visit the shop, it will unfortunately be gone.  Who’s to blame?  A very good friend and supportive customer Deb Miller.  She alerted me via facebook;  ”I went to Mill End and bought out the rest of that bolt of ikat fabric from the little Figgy’s dress because I loved that fabric so much.  Gonna see if I can make a kid dress and a dress for me…”.  That’s some serious love, and I’m terribly jealous she bought the end of the bolt, but I have good news!  I was at “Sew Mama Sew” yesterday and when I walked in the door I immediately spied these beauties, and purchased some of course!

“Boho” by Annette Tatum

When I arrived home, and rolled around in my new fabric, I had to begin a google search for more Ikat fabric.  Here’s a bit of my journey.

At Purl Soho you’ll find beautiful hand painted 13:1 needlepoint canvas that features a gorgeous design inspired by Ikat rugs and tapestries.   Unique NZ Designs 

Fabric.Com has a wonderful collection of Ikats

I really could go on and on so I better stop here, but wait, did I mention Amy Butler?  I’m sure you’ve seen her new Lark collection!

Thank you for all of the interest and I hope this has helped those whom have been searching for the perfect Ikat fabric for the Sunki, or the Ayashe, or even a lining for the Nituna!

  As a Thank You for your support during this transition we would like to extend our Pre-Order sale through Friday, November 25th, 2011.  Have a wonderful holiday weekend!  Gobble Gobble.     -Figgy’s

racheldenny, adrianfraz, shapescolors, theifandbanditkids, littlepapercrane, hawkandbirch

corium, hellowallflower, theifandbanditkids,  iheartnorwedianwood,  thingslikediamonds, ClaireVerity

How you been finding more and more NW around you lately?  We’d love to hear all about it!

“Nativity” is a blend of Native inspiration, nature loving children and captivating designs. For the last couple of seasons, Trend and Design influences have been looking West. Fashion and retailers as well as urban brands like Opening Ceremony, Levi’s, Hurley, Anthropology are inspired by the spirit and visuals of Northwest (NW) - the place Figgy’s calls home.

For our inaugural pattern collection, we have chosen to celebrate everything we love about the beautiful NW and we we look forward to you joining in our celebration.

 SUNKI

This pocket dress is not only stylish but comfortable. You will have so much fun choosing fabric for this versatle dress design, and the leggins….they go together in a snap.

NITUNA

A swing coat that’s just stunning – not only in Pendleton fabrics – and made fully reversible with bound seams! Yet we also include instructions on how to make an equally adorable lined version.

AYASHE

A very cool combo!  This blouse & pleated skirt can be dressed up or down and is winter and summer appropriate depending on the type of fabric you choose.  The yoke on the top is double layered and expertly hides your seams.  The pleated skirt has an adjustable hidden elastic tape fed through the back for a perfect fit and sports pockets for the gatherers.

These garment patterns contain exactly what your little one will need to get through this holiday season and many more to come.   From Figgys to you this holiday season we are offering free domestic shipping on all pre-orders from now until November 25th.  For the international sewists – we didn’t forget you – we are offering shipping for only $1.50 per pattern!  Discount will already be in place at checkout.

Happy Holidays & Happy Sewing

During my life’s journey, I met a great gal, and we choose to walk down the same path for a while. Recently,we came to a fork in the road and each of us had to make a life changing decision.  It was not an easy decision, but that is where we found ourselves.  Because we choose to walk along different paths (but still write and send birthday cards) I was given a chance to revisit my vision of what was once a hobby that evolved into a passion that evolved into a business and now once again….evolving.  At first I was quite overwhelmed and wasn’t quite sure what to do, but a friend gave me some much needed advice; ”Shelly, you just need to let go and let life come to you”, so I did.  Almost immediatly after I let go people started knocking on my door.  Notice a change or two or seven?  Well everyone,  I’ve thrown my Mary Tyler Moore cap to the sky and am ready for what the future has to offer.

I would like to welcome you to “Figgy’s” and for those of you that have been by my side since the beginning, thank you so so much!

For more information about Figgy’s please visit ABOUT 

Happy Sewing!