SewMasala

Knitting FO: Kalajoki Socks

noreply@blogger.com (MissMasala5) — Sun, 14 Aug 2011 19:38:00 +0000

Knitting FO: The Kalajoki socks are finished, with several changes. The first sock I knitted didn't have the toe shaping the pattern called for, which was referred to as an "anatomical toe", which forms a slant that complements the natural toe formation. I originally opted for a regular, basic toe. On the second sock, however, I decided to try the anatomical toe.

Now while I worked on the second sock, I also decided to incorporate a different heel than the pattern called for, which is your basic short-row heel. Instead, I'd do an afterthought heel. I listen to the Knitmore Girls podcast, and have heard them mention this type of heel construction before; they have revered it as the bees knees of sock heels. Then recently, another podcaster, Leslie of The Knit Girllls, announced that she uploaded a video tutorial for making an afterthought heel. I watched it and got so excited, that I just had to do it right away. Never mind that I had already completed one sock in another heel type, I was going for it. And it was great. A really fun and easy technique, and one that anyone who has yet to knit a sock must try. Personally, I find short row heels to be a bit of a pain. The afterthought heel takes all of the pain away. So if you haven't knit a sock before, but want to, by all means, do an afterthought heel. Trust me, it'll make your first time painless. Take a basic pattern like the one in this video sock tutorial from Knit Picks, and when you are ready for the heel, go to this tutorial, make your afterthought heel, then resume knitting the pattern to the toe, then go back and finish the heel.

I closed up both my toe and heel openings with the Kitchener stitch. Lots of knitters have no love for this grafting technique, me among them. It took a lot of getting used to but after practicing it, it's really a breeze. Of course, there's a video tutorial, thanks to YouTuber The Knit Witch. After the sock was finished, it was obvious to me at that point that I had to rip back the first sock and make it like the second. And I did.

Current Knitting: I got my replacement knitting needle tips for my Options Harmony needles, so that I can now get back to my Indigo Playmate cardigan. The body is finished with about three inches of 2x2 ribbing along the bottom. I am now picking up for the sleeves, which I am knitting in the round, magic loop on a circular needle. The pattern is knit top-down, my first time knitting top-down for a sweater. And since it's not knit in the round, I got the opportunity to do lots and lots of purling. But unlike many knitters, I find that I am fond of the purl stitch. But I noticed that purling continental style puts a strain on my wrist and forearm. To give myself a break while purling back on the sweater, I decided to throw, or knit the purls English style, which gave a bit of relief because of the movements involved. And then I noticed something: My stockinette fabric looked a lot more smooth and neat where I had thrown my purls rather than picking them. So from that point on, I picked my knits (continental) and threw my purls (English).

Note: This and the next entry were put on hold. Sadly while I was writing these drafts back in April my father passed away. I hope to post up-to-date entries from here on out. Thanks.

If tears could build a stairway,
And memories a lane,
I'd walk right up to Heaven
And bring you home again.
~Author Unknown

My Bunny and Her Wool, Pt.1/2

noreply@blogger.com (MissMasala5) — Wed, 20 Apr 2011 13:52:00 +0000

Spinning: I never thought I would be interested in spinning fiber into yarn. Never. But yarny blogs and podcasts describing the process and the pleasure of it all have a way of creeping into my consciousness in a most compelling manner. And fiber festivals seem to further this process along the path of enablement. Yes, I was curious, intrigued. But not 100% convinced that spinning was something that I, newbie knitter, needed to do. But the best way to know is to get up close and personal, so last year I attended two festivals, The Midwest Fiber and Folk Art Fair in Grayslake, IL, and Stitches Midwest in Schaumburg, IL. I attended the MFFAF first, with the intent of purchasing a highly praised, and also highly-priced yarn that I had only heard about via the knitting blogosphere. I would stalk the online store and click on skein after skein of some of the most gorgeously hand-dyed yarn. Just a few clicks later, I'd view my cart, my eyeballs would pop out of my head, then I'd click off the site with the quickness. Now, I'd heard that this vendor offers good deals at festivals. I confirmed that they would be at MFFAF, so off I went with an agenda-- err, budget, in mind. Yes, the yarn up close and personal was absolutely divine. The colors so rich, the yarns so lush--and the prices so, so very high, yet and still. The deals were apparently Oprah-type deals. People were buying the yarn, and plenty of it, but I would not be among them. But that didn't stop me from molesting a huge, velvety skein of a silvery teal lace-weight wool, cashmere and silk blend. My hand went to my purse and fiddled around for my wallet, but then I realized that if I bought this skein, I would have depleted about 80% of my budget. I immediately snapped out of my silky-wooly reverie, backed away from the stall and at that moment, felt determined to learn how to spin and dye my own yarn. And I would start right there, at the MFFAF.

The Midwest Folk and Fiber Arts Festival 2010

Fiber fondling, MFFAF 2010

I sauntered over to a nearby wooden spindle vendor to check out his wares. Pretty. Gorgeous. I saw another spindle stall not far away, and headed off towards that one. A man from another nearby stall, who had watched me looking at the spindles, came up to me and said, "You know, you can make your own spindle with a couple of parts from the hobby shop for two bucks." I made mental list of the things he told me, thanked him, and made a quick U-turn back to the area where a bunch of vendors were selling spinning fiber. I fondled all kinds of roving, batts, tops and locks, but my tactile senses came to a screeching halt when my fingers came upon something so soft and exquisite: It was an angora and wool blend. Expensive? Yes, kind of. But worth every penny. (Later I would learn that angora was an unsuitable choice for learning how to spin). Anyway, I reached for my wallet, and then recalled that one my way into the festival, I'd passed a lady leaving carrying a cardboard pet carrier, so I knew live angora rabbits were nearby-- and for sale.

Now if you didn't know by now, I am quite fond of pets. I have several: Three domestic tabby cats, all from shelters, and two dogs, a black labrador retriever and a Cane Corso mastiff. I have never had a pet rabbit before, but always thought I would, someday, along with a parrot, cockatiel, pot-bellied pig and palomino horse. And of course, a small farm is on that wish-list, too. I was pointed in the direction of where the animals were being showcased and took off. First, there were the llamas.

Llama pen, MFFAF 2010

And who doesn't want to take home a llama, right? Moving on to the rabbits, I spotted the star: a tiny, fluffy snowball of a baby red-eyed white (REW) English Angora. A small crowd had gathered around her and I patiently waited my turn to hold and pet her.

Baby REW English Angora Rabbit, MFFAF 2010

And like the group before me, I didn't want to let her go. But I had to. And she wasn't for sale. But there were a few English Angoras that were, and I chose a seven-month-old Fawn, and named her Harriet. The couple that sold me the rabbit let me know that her wool had only recently been harvested, but she still looked awfully wooly to me. They were really helpful with advising me of caring for my new pet, and made sure I understood to never, ever, contrary to popular belief, give her lettuce (it gives Angoras the runs). I paid for my Angora bunny and immediately left the festival, en route to the nearest pet store for supplies. Later, the girls were pleasantly surprised when they came home to find Harriet waiting to meet them.

Dakota holding Harriet for the first time

The above photograph is a recently plucked Harriet. Angora wool can be harvested by plucking, or shearing. Plucking Angora wool isn't like plucking one's eyebrow hairs, which is painful, to me, anyway. Rather, imagine combing through your own hair. You are apt to catch a few shed strands, yes? And it didn't hurt, because those hairs were already loosened in the follicle, or, were already released. English Angora rabbits go through stages of shedding their coats a few times per year, and that wool must be removed, or else it cold make the bunny very sick--or worse. This is because, like cats, they love self-grooming, but unlike cats, EAs can't gag up hair balls. These can cause wool block, which ultimately leads to sickness and death. Plucking is pretty easy, and the rabbit isn't bothered by it, unless I am working in an area she doesn't care to be touched. For Harriet, this is her bib, and inner hind legs.

Harriet with her wool grown in some

I have harvested the wool both ways because I have learned that plucking often can encourage the growth of guard hairs, which are coarser strands. However, sheared wool doesn't have the nice, long staple lengths one can get with plucking. I have only spun a small amount of Harriet's wool, and yes, it is a but tricky for a beginner because it is very slippery. I mixed a bit with some sheep wool, and found this much easier to control. The resulting yarn was very soft and lofty.

One harvest results in 1 full baggy of spin-quality wool

Harriet after her wool was harvested

Angora wool is so soft, so luxurious, and on its own is softer than cashmere. It's a hairy fiber, so it produces a halo after being worked up. One of my favorite vintage sweaters has been a beaded 100% Angora cardigan.

I did end up making my own spindle using a wooden wheel and dowel from Michael's, for less than $5 total. I decided to try a bottom-whorl spindle, and instead of using a hook at the end of the shaft, I cut a small notch into the shaft. I am pretty certain that my spindle is woefully lacking proper balance, but doggit-- it's making yarn!

First plied handspun yarn, Corriedale fiber

I have lots more to say about this topic, so come again for Part Two. In the meantime, enjoy this pic of the Lady Maxine, our wonderful Black Labrador Retriever.

My Black Lab, Maxine

The difference between friends and pets is that friends we allow into our company, pets we allow into our solitude. ~Robert Brault

No Sissy!

noreply@blogger.com (MissMasala5) — Wed, 20 Apr 2011 12:21:00 +0000

Sewing Book Review: The opening sentence from the preface of my 1967 revised and expanded edition of Coats & Clark's Sewing Book: Newest Methods From A to Z reads:

Dear Home Sewer, Dear Reader,

We know a man-- no sissy-- who made a dress for his wife.

I think I heard your gasps. Indeed! A rather odd--and somewhat startling-- attempt to convince me that if "a man-- no sissy--" could follow simple directions from a book and pattern without making assumptions, guesses or modifications, then there was no reason why I, too, could not sew perfect, beautiful garments, provided that I adopt a man's no nonsense approach to sewing and pattern instructions. Well, I know why that's so, because men, real men, just love following written instructions, right? Probably just as much as they love stopping and asking for directions when they've realized they might be lost. Mmmmkay. So ladies, they are saying to me, just resist that urge to deviate, alternate, or substitute. None of that "sissified" mess will do! I must be methodical. Calculating. Strategic, even. If not, then don't go crying to Coats & Clark when the garments turn out ill-fitting and, well, not so beautiful. And you know what? They are exactly right. Need I count the times I overlooked, dismissed, fudged, ignored, altered, guesstimated-- only to some sort of detriment? If only I had taken the man's approach, I could have saved myself much time and headache, let alone materials. *Sigh*

Men, no sissies, sewing in 1956 for gags, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.

Okay, I am being a tiny bit over-dramatic here, but sexist and bigoted language of the preface aside, Coats & Clark's Sewing Book: Newest Methods from A to Z is a wonderful little sewing tome that sewers, no matter their level, should check out or add to their library.

I bought my copy from a thrift shop for next to nothing (books that day were six for a dollar), but never took the time to really read it until recently. It has black and white photos, step-by-step diagrams, and the two-color illustrations are just simply charming, very retro. Dainty, even.

The instructions are concise and easy to follow. The overall layout of the book is pleasant. Not too wordy, but not shallow nor vague. The A-Z layout and index make concepts easy to find, which I love.

This book has become my go-to reference for looking up techniques on the fly. I highly recommend this book, which is available in a variety of prices and conditions at Amazon.com. The pic below is of the back cover.

Stay tuned for my next book review, where I will extoll the virtues of this lovely little book

I'm kidding. I've got several blog entries queued up and awaiting final touches, so visit again soon. But first, a random but slightly relevant quote from a feminist/womanist writer and seasoned rabblerouser:

Manhood coerced into sensitivity is no manhood at all. ~Camille Paglia

March Just Marched On By

noreply@blogger.com (MissMasala5) — Fri, 01 Apr 2011 22:01:00 +0000

March, where'd you go? That was the quickest "longer" month I've ever lived. It seemed like February would never end, then March just stepped in and ran right back out. Time is a very peculiar thing, isn't it?

Sewing: I'm just about finished with my pants. All that's left is to finish are the waistband and clasp. I laundered the pants and even though I pinked the seams, they were a frayed mess when I took the pants out of the dryer. Perhaps I should have zigzagged them? That, or I think I need a serger in my life. Until then, some fray check is in order, but if anyone has another suggestion, please, do share.

Future sewing project: A couple years ago I bought several yards of a durable cotton blended fabric from the $2.00 sale bin at Vogue in a wonderful dark gray. As soon as I saw it I heard the words "trench coat" in my mind. It was only very recently that I found the perfect pattern for the coat, McCall's 5525. I found the pattern at the Sewing Patterns online shop and to my luck, they had the pattern on sale for only $2.99. I'm making View E (largest pic). So now I've got my pattern, my fabric, my lining fabric in a lighter gray poly and some interfacing. I still need to buy the proper thread and the perfect buttons.

I just love a classic trench coat. This is one I have been wanting since forever and a day: the Burberry. They created the trench coat for military use around 1900 (a claim also made by Aquascutum, though theirs is dated earlier). I don't foresee having a Burberry in my closet any time soon, so for now, I'll just settle on having similar buttons.

Women's trench coat by Burberry

Why all this love over a trench coat? There's just something about the components that appeal to me: the clean, simple lines of the construction, the wide lapels and collar, the belt and the buttons, the tabs, the flaps. For more details about the Burberry trench coat classics, have a look at this blog entry from the late "I Am Fashion" blog. I was curious about trench-inspired styles for coats and jackets and found these little beauties over at ModCloth:

Here is an example of a minimalist approach from Aquilano.Rimondi. I love the shape of the sleeves.

And who says this timeless wardrobe staple had to stay within the confines of outerwear? This trench coat-inspired skirt from ModCloth is simply darling and fun!

I'm going to plan this trench coat project very carefully. A bit of studying and practicing is in order, but yet I wonder if I can pull this off without a serger?

Knitting: I finished my Ravelry Malabrigo March Knit-Along Clapotis, right on the deadline. It hasn't been blocked yet, and at first I wasn't going to, but I decided to go ahead and block it. These are pre-blocking pics.

I'll post the blocked Clapotis pics soon. I really enjoyed knitting this pattern, especially while watching the now-canceled "Legend of the Seeker" television series.

Both seasons 1 and 2 are on Netflix Watch-Instantly and while I do remember seeing something for that show while it aired and thought it was interesting, I never tuned in. Many felt as I did, I suppose, since it was canceled for low viewership. The first few episodes weren't that great, but it got better as the story line progressed. Honestly, though, I doubt I'd have watched if I hadn't also been knitting. Plenty of "give me a break" moments and eye-rolls were had while I watched LOTS, for sure. But for some reason, "mindless" knitting and "easy" television shows or movies go so well together. The writing in LOTS wasn't half bad, and the action scenes were riveting enough to keep up my interest. The costumes were pretty boring but the ox blood leather outfits worn by the Mord-Sith were one of the show's highlights.

I ran out of episodes of the show before I could finish the Clapotis, so I switched my viewing over to the Masterpiece's "Downton Abbey", which was so brilliant for many reasons, but mainly for the arrogant and exasperating matriarch Violet, played by the inimitable Maggie Smith.

Knitting FO update: This was the first cowl I made, using Lion Brand Hometown USA yarn in the Washington Denim colorway. It's a little over 100 yards or 1.5 skeins, and I used US size 17 needles. The pattern is called My Kind of Cowl, perfectly named for staving off the bitter cold winds that punctuate typical Chicago winters (and late falls and early springs, for that matter). New to knitting? This is the perfect project for you. Grab some chunky yarn and this free pattern and cowl it up so you'll be prepared next winter.

Current knitting: Now that the Clapotis is done, I'm eager to get back to the Indigo Playmate cardigan sweater. Unfortunately, I broke one of the Harmony wood needles I was using so until the new tip gets here that project will be on hold. Plus, I had several projects on hold, so after serious thought--okay, really? It was a round of "eeny-meeny-miny-mo" that got my Kalajoki socks out of hibernation.

After finishing the one sock last July, I just ran out of steam with this pattern. I picked it up again the following September but whatever spark that was there fizzled out and gave way to something else. This project is knit from Patons Kroy FX yarn in the Cascade Colors colorway. It's a fingering weight 75/25 wool-nylon blend and comes in skeins of 166 yards and can be found at Michael's or Jo-Ann's for around $3-5 per skein. I find the yarn rather splitty when knitting with it, but other than that it's decent sock yarn that gives a pretty durable sock, so I've heard. I'm using a Knit Picks nickle-plated US size 2 circular needle, magic loop method. Here's to finally overcoming Second Sock Syndrome!

Spinning: Last summer I started spinning yarn on a spindle that I made using a wooden wheel and dowel I bought at Michael's for under $5. I made a plying spindle with a dowel and rubber door stop that cost $2 at Home Depot. Soon after that, I bought a pet fiber animal and named her Harriet. I'll talk more about her and the spinning next time. Until then, watch out for the pranksters today, enjoy the weekend, and...

...Why not make an origami rose :)

Anyone who stops learning is old, whether at twenty or eighty. ~Henry Ford

Clapotis & Playing FO Catch-Up: Joukahainen Pullover

noreply@blogger.com (MissMasala5) — Wed, 23 Mar 2011 19:48:00 +0000

Today we lost the legendary American actress Elizabeth Taylor.

Elizabeth Taylor, 1932-2011

Rest peacefully, Lady Elizabeth.

And now, on to some of my as-yet-to-be-blogged-about knitting finished objects. I'll start with the Joukahainen sweater I made for Mr. Masala.

It is knit in Knit Picks Wool of the Andes, a worsted-weight 100% Peruvian Highland wool. I knit up a size L, which fit him perfectly, although he told me he would have liked another inch or two of ribbing along the bottom. The large size required twelve skeins, roughly 1320 yards of the yarn. The pattern is based upon the sweater recipe from a couple Elizabeth Zimmerman books, utilizing her percentage system (EPS). It is knit bottom-up and in-the-round, so there is no seaming. This was my first pullover, and while the pattern is suitable for a first-time sweater knitter, I had issues with the raglan decreases. They involved cables, a rather simple cable at that. Which was fine until stitches in or near the cables dropped. Why I kept dropping stitches, I don't know. But it seemed like I'd only notice them after I was several knitting rounds away. Sigh. Fixing those drops was a headache, which in turn took away from the integrity of the cables, visibly. But, it's my first pullover and he wears it proudly. A better-knitted version is in the future, to be sure.

About the yarn: I really enjoyed knitting with Wool of the Andes. It has established itself as my go-to wool, as it's simply wonderful to work with. I am currently working on another knitting project in WOTA, the Indigo Playmate cardigan by Wendy Bernard from her book Custom Knits. I really love how the yarn cooperates with the movement of the needles. It's not terribly scratchy, is springy and lively, and at merely two bucks per 110-yard-skein, WOTA is very easy on the wallet. It makes an excellent option for those on a budget and/or wanting to break their acrylic yarn habit.

This yarn is 100% wool, so it will felt if washed in the machine or agitated by handwashing in warm or hot water. It also pills easily. I found myself pulling large pilled slubs off of the inside arms of the sleeves where they rub against the body. Once I got them off, the sweater looked good as new. I made sure Mr. Masala understood that he is never to launder this sweater. I washed it myself in what one could most definitely call a non-traditional wool wash: Body Shop's Sweet Lemon Shower Gel, which came in a gift set I got for Christmas. Loving the warm, lemony scent, I decided to use the shower gel as wool wash. I ventured that anything that is gentle enough to wash human skin with is okay for washing wool. And I was right. I tested some WOTA scraps in a solution of water and mostly shower gel with fine results.

I simply used the shower gel to clean the sweater pretty much the same as one would using any other type of wool wash. First I poured about a capsful into the sink as it filled up with cool water, more than half-capacity, so the solution was pretty diluted but still had enough bubbles to please me. I gently put the sweater into the solution, pressed it down a few times to get the material fully saturated, then left it to soak for about ten minutes. Then, I lifted the sweater out of the solution and very lightly squeezed--no twisting, no wringing. Then I placed the sweater onto a thick bath towel and rolled it up jelly-roll style, pressing out more liquid. Taking another dry towel, I laid the sweater out on top of it flat. It dried completely overnight. The shower gel left the sweater clean, soft and lightly scented without any residue. It did not interfere with the dyes. I priced the shower gel at around $8.00 US for 8.4 fl. oz., very economical in comparison to the other popular wool washes out there that can cost as much as $10 for just 4.0 fluid ounces. I'll definitely be trying the other scents in the Body Shop shower gel line, but I'm a huge fan of the Sweet Lemon.

We have approached the final week of Malabrigo March, which is filled with contests and several knit-a-longs (KALs) and crochet-a-longs (CALs) sponsored by the Malabrigo Junkies group on Ravelry. I joined and signed up for the Clapotis KAL.

I had come across so many versions of the Clapotis on the internet and heard about it from knitting podcasters so often, I simply thought, "That's nice--again", but never really felt compelled to knit one, and couldn't really understand why more than 17,000 FOs of the pattern existed on Ravelry. What was it, exactly, about this pattern? Curiosity got the better of me, so I downloaded the free Knitty.com Clapotis pattern designed by Kate Gilbert, plus some accompanying Excel charts, kindly made available through the Clapotis group on Ravelry, and went over to The Fiber Fix and bought some "discounted for Malabrigo March" Silky Merino in the Lettuce colorway. First, let me talk about this yarn.

This wasn't my first Malabrigo purchase, but it was my first Silky Merino. This yarn is single-ply DK-weight made of 50% merino and 50% silk, 150 yards per skein. And it costs a lot less than comparable silk-wool blends, so say it with me: affordable luxury. Now that is sexy. The first time I touched it, I immediately swooned. Several minutes of ooh-ing, ahh-ing, cooing and fondling ensued thereafter. Heaven in a skein. Or "sex in a skein", if you prefer. Yeah. It's like that. Do believe the hype. You should have some idea of what knitting with this yarn is like. In a word: Bliss. The sheen. The hand. And the drape, my God, the drape! *goes and splashes face with ice water and calms down*

Anyway, here is my current progress on my MM KAL Clapotis. I had to fold it over just a bit to get a decent pic with my not-so-decent phone camera.

Working with this yarn is such a luxurious experience that I switched out my normal plastic stitch markers for these little sea glass beauties from Gloria Patre's Etsy shop:

Next time I knit with Silky Merino, you may find that I've switched out my knitting needles :)

To ensure that I won't run out of yarn before completing my wrap, I am following a concept found in the Ravelry Clapotis group called "The Rule of Fifths", which is a very helpful way in calculating how much yarn you'll need to make your completed Clapotis in the size you want.

The Rule of Fifths basically goes like this: Consider that the pattern has three sections, then divide your total yardage by five. Allow one-fifth for the first and third sections each, then the remaining three-fifths for the second section. In my case, I bought five skeins of Silky Merino at 150 yards per skein, totaling 750 yards. The pattern is broken down as follows: 1) increase section, 2) straight section and 3) decrease section. That means that I will need to use 150 yards, or one skein for Section One, 450 yards, or three skeins for Section Two and the remaining skein, or 150 yards, for Section Three. I am presuming that this will give me a larger Clapotis, at least one that will accommodate my wing span. The number of repeats in Sections One and Three determine length, while those of Section Two determine width. This all becomes evident as the knitting progresses.

Now I'm going to address why I think this pattern is so popular. First, it's quite a lovely garment that can be worn as a scarf, shawl or wrap. Secondly, it's just so much fun to knit! Why? I believe it's has to do with the dropping of the stitches. Earlier, I shared my agony of accidentally dropping stitches while trying to cable the raglan sleeves of the Joukahainen pullover. Imagine how I felt when I came to the purposefully dropped stitches of the Clapotis. Quite honestly, it's the next best thing to popping bubble-wrap.

I reckon I'm about a 3-5 days away from finishing the Clapotis, but I am already planning the next one. Or two. Mother's Day is coming soon, you know.

My next blog entry will feature a sewing update of my Spring Hepburn pants, plus more of my knitting FOs, so do stop by again. Have a great week and, hey--it's finally Spring!

"If you take a flower in your hand and really look at it,

it's your world for the moment."

~Georgia O'Keefe

Don't Call it a Comeback

noreply@blogger.com (MissMasala5) — Fri, 18 Mar 2011 12:26:00 +0000

Before shot of foyer

Aaaaaand, we're back. I would love to say that blog absence was due to something really spectacular and cool, like spending a year hiking the Yucatan or researching the mating habits of red-footed boobies. But, no. It was mainly due to blogging simply being off the radar. So what's been going on? The main focus of my time has been rehabbing my old house. My husband does almost all of the work himself with the occasional help of hired workers. I help, too. I suppose one could say I was the "creative director", somewhat to his chagrin, but not to discredit my hand in the wood and plaster sanding, priming, painting and staining and the never-ending dust chasing. It's a slow process, but it's coming along.

Here's an after shot. Well, sort of after as it's not yet 100% done. The woodwork needs finishing, new lighting needs to be installed and there are new furnishings to be added, which I am frustrated shopping for--shouldn't this be fun?

Foyer after, but not really

So now that I'm no longer chasing plaster and wood dust, I'm knitting something. Or crocheting something. And lately, sewing something. Let's talk about the sewing.

I started on a pair of spring Hepburn pants, inspired by Katharine Hepburn's style-busting wide-leg trousers of decades past.

Runway shows for Spring 2011 fashion were saturated with the same silhouette. I'm always thrilled when the retro styles I love make a comeback in fashion.

With the help of the book How to Make Sewing Patterns and an old 1980's (?) Easy Simplicity no-frills, straight-leg pants pattern, I was able to make a muslin to insure proper fit. But it wasn't without good ol' novice blunders, especially with the darts. See the dart bubbles?

After consulting with a few sewers and taking in a couple YouTube videos, I learned the proper way to stitch the darts. The book and pattern helped me to redo the placement. Et voila!

I made this muslin a while back, and I admit that since then, my measurements have changed, so some adjustments have been made to pattern for the waist and hips. The original leg was already widened by several inches.

Now the fabric. Well, let me first say that recently a very generous benefactor blessed me with her fabric stash. Her very healthy fabric stash. Healthy as in she's a former fabric store employee, get my drift? Here it is as yet to be properly sorted in my fabric cabinet. Consider that about ten pieces of what you see here was my stash before I was gifted hers.

Almost all of the fabric is unlabeled, but just by sight, touch and feel I can, despite my fabric unsavvy-ness, discern between garment and decor fabric. It's roughly 99% garment fabric.

Due to lighting issues, I was only able to get pics of two of the four cabinets.

Here is the fabric I chose to use for these pants, from the gifted stash. My first choice would have been something with more drape, but I felt safer with this. It feels and looks like a cotton blended with something stretchy, maybe spandex.

The Simplicity pattern features front scoop pockets. When I made the muslin, I omitted the pockets, but since I'm using this relatively casual fabric, I included the pockets.

Next up is to complete the darts, sew the side seams and crotch, add the waistband, closures and hemming. I don't plan on lining. I hope to have these completed within a few days. But for now, I continue on my quest for the perfect foyer furniture. I leave you with an object of my perpetual affection, this 19th century Viennese walnut side table. It won't be gracing my foyer, sadly, but it is available for fawning and feigning over in the Museum of the Art Institute, Chicago.

“No great thing is created suddenly.” ~Epictetus

One-Button Cardigan

noreply@blogger.com (MissMasala5) — Tue, 07 Sep 2010 12:52:00 +0000

My two-year-old granddaughter and daughter-in-law are here visiting in the States for a few weeks, so I took advantage of their time here to save on the shipping costs to Switzerland and knit up her Christmas sweater now. I chose the beginner pattern One-Button Cardigan, available for free on Ravelry. For easy care, I used Bouquet Softee 100% acrylic yarn, from a destash gift from one of my sisters. It's the largest size, size 3, and knit up in entirely one piece in garter stitch. The sleeves and side seams involved multiple attempts, but thanks to the DomiKnitrix garter seaming video, I ended up with decent finishing. I decided to throw in three wide white stripes on the bottom of the sweater, and created a peppermint candy-looking button using single crochet in the round. I wanted something that looked both sporty and Christmasy, but not entirely restricted to holiday wear. The cardigan was much too big for her, as an 18 mos. is perfect on her still. I noticed after she tried it on that one side is a tad longer than the other, attributed to one extra row of garter on that side. I hate those mistakes that are not seen until you are finished (or close to it).

I tried on the cardigan and it made for a really cute cropped cardi, so I am definitely knitting up another for myself, same size, but with a few extra stitches for the sleeve widths.

In other knitting news, I swatched and cast on the Joukahainen pullover sweater that I am making for the hubster. I am using Knit Picks Wool of the Andes yarn in the Winter Night colorway. It's that perfect shade of blue I love on him. I am knitting this up on size 4 US needles, having started out with size 7 US and not getting gauge. This will be my first sweater done in stockinette stitch, the previous ones in all garter.

Also on my needles: the Wisp lace scarf, the second Kalajoki sock, and the remaining sleeve on the Cowl and Howl sweater.

As for sewing, I took to my machine to run some practice stitches and hit a malfunction. The LED showed an error code, E6. The manual said to remove tangled threads, but upon inspection, there were none to remove. I'm going to have my mechanically-inclined DH check it out for me, and if he can't sort it out, it's off to the repair shop with it. In the meantime, I am (still) shopping fabrics for both quilting and clothing. I'm really interested in making this skirt from Donna Karan and Vogue.

Isn't that a hot skirt? I love it and hopefully will have one of my own. Soon.

I'm looking forward to attending the Wisconsin Sheep and Wool Festival in Jefferson this weekend. It's not a guaranteed go since there are a few other engagements this weekend, but I'd really rather be there. Keeping fingers crossed!

Bitten by the Yarn Bug

noreply@blogger.com (MissMasala5) — Thu, 10 Jun 2010 15:08:00 +0000

A friend recently told me it was bound to happen. But resistance was futile, so yes, a complete and utter indulgence into knitting with a side of crochet is responsible for the cobwebs growing over my sewing table and machine.

Not that my love for sewing has diminished. It has, however, taken a new direction. Lately I have been thinking about quilting. Just thinking at this point, with minor planning. I have two designs in mind for wall hangings for my home and have been playing around with color schemes. In addition to that, I have been DVRing and watching a few quilting shows for techniques. As for sewing garments, I have two new patterns I am itching to get fabrics for, but more on that in an upcoming post. In the meantime, it's back to work with the yarn on my knitting needles-- three pairs of socks, one sweater and one lace swatch.

Where the HECK am I???

noreply@blogger.com (MissMasala5) — Thu, 03 Sep 2009 17:19:00 +0000

I'm still here! I know I have not posted anything since forever mainly due to being super distracted with other things for several months. My sewing had to be put on the back burner but am pleased to say that I'm now free to return to it unfettered. Check back soon for updates :)

What I'm Working On and the "Swoosh" Skirt

noreply@blogger.com (MissMasala5) — Wed, 20 May 2009 12:44:00 +0000

Yes, it's been a minute since my last post. Not much done by way of sewing as I have not been feeling that great. Badly enough to not be able to go on the Mother's Day fabric spree my family gave me as a gift. Now that's really bad, isn't it? The past few days have been better, so I am keen on picking up the project I'd been working on since I finished my daughter's dress. It's another easy wrap dress made from Vogue Pattern #8379. This time I am making View B with sleeves. Although I am steadily losing inches, I still haven't reached my upper arm toning goals, but that's another blog!

I am using a black jersey fabric from Vogue Fabrics. I toyed with the idea of making the skirt longer but nixed that idea.

If all goes as planned I should be done with this dress today. All that's left to do is sew the skirt to the bodice, the sleeves and the hem.

In other news, I have had my eye on a couple flirty godet skirts. While I only earned how to draft a basic A-line skirt in my sewing class, there are instructions in my pattern-making book for drafting godets. If I decide on a commercial pattern, I'll look to McCall's 5274.

While perusing the web I came across this really nice slide show put together by New York Time's photographer Bill Cunningham, featuring his NYC street fashion photo montage of the "swoosh" skirt.

Check out the narrated slideshow of fabulous skirts here: On the Street--Swoosh!

Vogue #8380, View B

noreply@blogger.com (MissMasala5) — Wed, 06 May 2009 13:57:00 +0000

Vogue pattern 8380, View B. The fabric is a cotton stretch print that I got on sale from Vogue Fabrics. I completed this dress a while ago but am finally getting around to posting it. I made it for my daughter. It's still not warm enough here for her to wear it, unfortunately. Chicago weather sucks lemons! Since the bodice is low in the front, she'll have to wear this dress with a little tee. Once I get some more fabric I plan to sew this pattern again for her, in View A. I like View B and will sew this one up for myself.

ETA: Hooray! It's finally warming up :)

Sooooo Slow to Sew

noreply@blogger.com (MissMasala5) — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 17:28:00 +0000

It's been a while since I posted last. An update on what's been going on:

I took the bodice and skirt apart on the plaid jumper from the last post. I just wasn't feeling it after much contemplation, so it is now an official UFO.
I picked up crocheting again. I am still not done with that project but will be soon.
I began sewing a dress for my youngest daughter, from Vogue 8380. I just need to add the zipper and finish the hem.

I only have a couple more sewing classes left. In the last class, I learned French seams. It looks like I'll have to sign up for another set of 9 classes in order to get to the topics I am interested in learning. It was kind of funny how the instructor kept getting on me about my foot. I have the habit of lifting my foot slightly above the pedal between stitching. He wants me to put my foot firmly on the floor instead. I'm finding that habit rather hard to break!

Jumper Dress Pt. 2

noreply@blogger.com (MissMasala5) — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 00:18:00 +0000

I spent most of the day working on the plaid jumper. I ended up sewing in some elastic along the hemline because my daughter fancies the bubble skirt. That ended up really ugly. No pictures of that crapola. So I cut the bottom of the skirt off and hemmed it. It's still not finished, I have a collar ruffle to add. Here is the dress so far.

I decided to go with asymmetrical pleats and gathers. Constructing those was, um, interesting. I'm sure what I did was all ass-backwards, but my daughter thinks it's cute and is willing to wear it. The bodice still isn't 100% right, even though I adjusted the muslin and pattern.

Attaching the bodice to the skirt was a trip and a half! I kept getting one or the other on the wrong side. I haven't finished the seams so ignore the funky line between the bodice and skirt. As for matching the plaid, I did okay with the front and back, but the side seams are off. They were fine while pinning, so not quite sure what happened there. As usual, I have a jacked up hemline, but it's slightly better than the others I have done so far. I was going for an updated modish sixties feel. I think it worked in that respect.

My daughter thinks that I should make the neckline a little lower on the front and almost to the skirt in the back. I'm thinking about it.

Well, done sewing for the day. I'll probably start and finish the collar ruffle tomorrow.

Jumper Dress Pt. 1

noreply@blogger.com (MissMasala5) — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 18:53:00 +0000

My sister-in-law gave me 3 yards of Burberry-inspired plaid lightweight stretch wool--thanks, sweetie! I decided to try my hand at working with my bodice sloper and started on a jumper. I made the bodice but had to adjust a little for fit. So far, so good. Next, the skirt. I decided to use draping techniques for ideas. Here are the ones I have come up with so far. Please excuse the way it looks on the mannequin, because it is not a dress form but probably could be for someone who is a size 2-4.

Idea #1: Two sets of pleats in the front, then pulled back slightly for fullness.

Idea #2: Side pleats gathered and draped across with a sash belt.

Idea #3: Crazy origami-inspired folds for an unusual twist on a rather conservative-looking fabric.

These probably look a little rough, but I think they convey the overall ideas. I'm still cranking out rough ideas and might just end up with a simple A-line skirt. We'll see. I'm totally new to the concept of draping, so advice and criticism is much appreciated!

I hope the books in the background aren't too distracting. Since it got so cold down in the Craft Dungeon where my sewing area was initially set up, I moved my machine upstairs to the library where it is nice and warm. I don't work well with frozen fingers. Once the chill is gone I'll move back down there. Hurry up, warm weather--and I mean everyday, not just once a week like it has been lately.

FO: Burda Style Vivienne Jumper

noreply@blogger.com (MissMasala5) — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 19:50:00 +0000

I finished the baby jumper. I ended up using buttons instead of snaps. Overall, It could be better, but my next ones will be. Sewing this piece gave me the opportunity to work with a fine fabric, 100% Chinese silk, a new experience for this novice. Not that I'm ready to run out, purchase silk and start whipping up anything with it any time soon. But at least I got my feet wet with it, and have a few scrap pieces to practice on.

I'm going to go ahead and send the jumper, along with a few store-bought garments and other gifts. In the meantime, I really need to get more practice with my sewing machine. Lots more.

March Sewing Contest and Thrift Shop Remixes

noreply@blogger.com (MissMasala5) — Sat, 14 Mar 2009 13:22:00 +0000

The theme for this month's LHCF sewing contest is the color green. Another idea that came up for a future contest was to sew an item made from things found in a second-hand shop. I decided to do a little bit of both for this project. My granddaughter's first birthday is coming up soon, so that inspired me to sew something with her in mind. Whether or not I'll give it to her and/or enter it in the contest depends on the outcome, of course.

My jaunt over to the 'goody shop' resulted in these finds, a 100% Indian cotton madras wrap, and a 3x sized 100% Chinese silk top. I paid $6 total.

I am using both these fabrics to make a jumper from Burda Style's free pattern downloads. This one is called the Vivienne Jumper, and I think it's an excellent pattern for the beginner. Why silk for a baby's dress? It was the only thing I found that matched the madras colors that could work as a lining. If I do end up sending this dress, I'll advise that they handwash and line dry.

Vivienne Jumper from Burda Style

I have downloaded several free patterns from Burda Style, but this is the first one I have printed out. After printing, I had to tile the pieces together, trim away the overlapping edges, tape them together, then cut the pieces out.

That was easy. The challenge was resizing the pattern, which is a size 2T that fits toddlers 18-24 months. My granddaughter is just turning 12 months, and if she does get this jumper, I'd like for her to be able to wear it this year.

The pattern instructions call for sewing the shell and lining separately, then putting them together. I decided to forgo buttons--potential choking hazard--and use snaps for the closures.

I thought I was done with the shell, but the hemming is a mess. Gotta break out my trusty seam reaper, dangit. I catch all kinds of hell with hems and it drives me nuts. I have a sewing class a little later on today, so I hope to get some tips for better hemming then. In the meantime, rip, rip, rip!

O Tilda!

noreply@blogger.com (MissMasala5) — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 15:51:00 +0000

If I had to pick a favorite androgynous, alien-like, fashion-forward actress, it would be the Oscar-winning Tilda Swinton.

I absolutely loved her costuming in the movies Constantine, Chronicles of Narnia and Orlando. I wonder if when she reads scripts for projects, does costuming play a role in whether or not she'll accept the part? (I wonder the same about my other fave fashionable actress Diane Keaton). I am never unimpressed with Swinton's acting, but I'll admit I enjoy watching her costumes just as much--or more! And what she wears off camera is absolutely amazing (she wears lots of drapey Lanvin gowns)--and that has been interpreted in both positive and negative sentiment by the fashion press. Bah! Who cares if she lands in the "What Was She Thinking?" Tilda wears clothes that obviously please her and feel good to her, while other actresses are obsessed with being on best-dressed lists. Petty, but I understand.

And who better than the gamine, strikingly other-worldly Swinton to be the muse for AnOther Magazine's Futuristic Fashion spread?

Click on the link above for more futuristic silhouettes worn by Swinton, shot by fashion photographer du jour Craig McDean.

Image from SassyBella.com

Sewing Classes!

noreply@blogger.com (MissMasala5) — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 01:32:00 +0000

Finally!

I mentioned in a previous post that I was searching for sewing classes not too far from home and voila! I found the EWS Fashion Design Academy about 15 minutes away. Each class is 3 1/2 hours long, and I started my first of 9 weekly classes today. There was only one other new student with me, but there were 8 others present today working at various stages. Some were working on full scale patterns, others were sewing various projects. The classroom was awesome, equipped with many types of machines, including a few heavy-duty looking industrial types, an overlocker and serger and several newer computerized Singers.

Pic from EWS site.

The instructor, master tailor Eric Stiles, was awesome! Just so full of energy and without the help of an assistant, managed to keep track of everyone's work, teach us newbies, and offer criticism and advice to everyone without missing a beat. He is the epitome of multitasking, and he does it so smoothly.

The first lesson included learning a little bit of lingo, how to take proper measurements and how to draft a skirt pattern based upon the Tailor's Quarter Size. From there we will draft the full size pattern, test the pattern with a muslin, then based upon the final sloper make regular, flair, semi-circular and gore skirts.

I had to unlearn much of what I learned from the How to Make Sewing Patterns book, which was what I used to make a bodice and pants sloper, because it teaches you how to make patterns full-scale from the get go. Eventually I hope to incorporate what I got from the book with what I am learning in the classes.

For homework, we were given three sets of measurements and have to draft three patterns for each using the quarter size square. Learning how to draft patterns is really cool, but I can't wait to get to the designing and sewing!

Vogue #8379 Wrap Dress

noreply@blogger.com (MissMasala5) — Sat, 28 Feb 2009 19:26:00 +0000

Here is my first dress, from Vogue pattern #8379. I entered it in the February Sewing Contest being held on LHCF. Made it just in time as today is the deadline. ETA: I won 1st place and a gift card for the fabric store of my choice! Thanks so much to Queen SH for sponsoring the contest.

The pattern was categorized "Very Easy"...hmph. No comment. It took me 12 hours from start to finish. I had fit issues. I have been losing weight since being on the raw vegan diet so my measurements at bust and waist put me at a size 10. Sadly, my upper arms do not. I have those dreadful saggy wings that probably would have felt at home in a size 14 sleeve. And speaking of arms, the First Lady has definitely gotten me motivated to work those wings right off.

So I consider this dress my summer body motivation dress. It is made from a sheer cotton blend fabric I got off the sale table of Vogue Fabrics Outlet a couple months ago. It looks good from a distance but up close it is a mess! I used 4 different colored threads, the hem is uneven and the armholes are...well, I'd rather not talk about them. It's just too embarrassing. The dress looks good on me, though. The neckline is a lot deeper on me than the mannequin because I wanted a sexier take on this dress. I made a neck sash to give it a flirty, vintage feel.

I would definitely make this dress again, but with sleeves, both long and short. I would also like a longer version in a really nice fabric for evening. I love this dress pattern. I will practice my hemming before I make it again.

Vintage Patterns Galore!

noreply@blogger.com (MissMasala5) — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 02:39:00 +0000

Dress by Pierre Cardin
Image from The Frock

I love, love, love fashion from the 40s, 50s, 60s and 70s and it is my dream to be able to sew beautiful garments inspired by these silhouettes. I have lucked up on eBay before and managed to win a great 60s frock pattern for one dollar plus shipping, but got outbid on all the others. Then I happened upon a wonderful site that specializes in beautiful vintage patterns but their prices are too steep for my budget.

As I mentioned in my previous post, we went down to Arcola, Illinois to check out some Amish furniture and antiques. I was more interested in the quilts. My gosh, those quilts--absolutely breathtaking. My gosh, those quilts' prices--absolutely astronomical! But worth every penny, you'd better believe it.

We bopped into a little quaint antique collectibles shop and browsed their wares. They had an old black antique Singer sewing machine in-table for $300--tell me how I left without that? What a beauty. On the way out, partially hidden in the corner of a bottom shelf was a plastic shoe bin filled with what? Vintage sewing patterns! At 50 cents a pop!!! Here's what I bought:

I also managed to find three very unique antique cast iron trivets to add to my collection (I collect trivets and have them proudly displayed on a wall in my kitchen). After we left that shop we sauntered into a fabric shop a few doors down. My, my, my. A quilter's delight! The fabric prices were comparable to those here in the city so I didn't buy any. But I did manage to pick up some very nice Indian horn buttons for a linen jacket I want to sew, some crochet needles at 2 bucks each and some skeins of yarn at 2 bucks each. And now, I don't know what to do next, crochet or sew something? Perhaps a little of each :)

My First Vogue Pattern: #1020 Top & Skirt

noreply@blogger.com (MissMasala5) — Sun, 08 Feb 2009 07:04:00 +0000

After seeing several rave reviews on Pattern Reviews for this t-shirt top from Vogue pattern 1020, I was convinced that I had to have it. And I would, of course, put my own little spin on it. Probably not the best idea when you're a self-taught beginner like me, but what the hey. The pattern's dress also caught me eye, as it faintly reminded me of this little number from Narcisco Rodriguez.

I love the neckline on this dress, and attempted to do my V1020 top's neckline in a similar manner. So much for trying. Here's my version of the top, in black matte jersey from Gorgeous Fabrics, as well as the skirt from the same pattern.

This was the first top I ever made, and I am quite pleased with it. Setting the sleeves was tricky at first, but not as bad as I thought. I did make other changes to the design of the top besides the neckline. The pattern called for ruching on the right side at the waist. I lowered mine to hit the hip to add a bit of asymmetry at the bottom. I also added a little ruching to the left upper side seam for soft gathers across the chest. They didn't come out as pronounced as I wanted them to.

The pattern instructions called for a side zipper. Why, I wonder? The pattern calls for stretchy fabrics, no zipper needed. As for the ruching, I used the zigzag stitch and string method with no problems.

As for the skirt, it's not that great looking on the pattern envelope pic.

Maybe it's the color? Anyway, I am pleased with the way my skirt turned out. It was very easy to construct and sew.

Both pieces greatly flawed in terms of construction details--slight puckers at the armholes, uneven stitching at the hemline--but I wore this out to a party tonight all the same. I am ready to start taking sewing classes. Where to go is the question. Hopefully I'll be able to find something not to far from home.

Ruching

noreply@blogger.com (MissMasala5) — Fri, 06 Feb 2009 16:33:00 +0000

In preparing to sew the top from the Vogue 1020 pattern, I decided that I'd like to have the ruching on both sides instead of just one. Sure, the asymmetry of the original pattern's gathers to one side gives this basic tee shirt a nice twist. However, I got tummy issues that would be emphasized with that. One thought that briefly flitted in my mind was "Will this look dated?"

In my search for examples of ruching on both side seams, I got my question answered when I came across this New York mag article:

Bunch Up: Ruching Takes Over Pre-Fall

1/13/09 at 6:51 PM

Comment 00Comment 00Comments

Watch the slideshow

Photo: Courtesy of Burberry

If the pre-fall collections are anything to go by, February's runways will be covered in texture. You'll practically be able to feel the fabric through your computer screen. Ruching — the gathering of fabric with elastic — was so prevalent, we wanted to break out our old prom dresses. Burberry opted for a textured mini with diagonal downward panels, while Donna Karan had asymmetrical creases finished with untied ruffles. Vera Wang's ruching sticks to the center of a black satin dress, and Nicole Miller and Reem Acra scrunch material from the waist up. For more on the trend, click ahead.

See more trends and the best of pre-fall.

I am particularly inspired by this example:

After reading the pattern instructions, then skipping over to Pattern Reviews, I found that there were certain issues with the pattern itself, such as Vogue's weird inclusion of a side zipper. Also, there was mention of using elastic for the ruching, whereas the instructions call for the good ol' two lines of basting and pull technique. I was not comfortable with either, so I called upon my friends and family for input. The technique I am going to try is the zigzag over a string technique. Thanks, Nikkablue and Momi :) And now, off to practice the technique on an old shirt. I refuse to cut into that beautiful matte jersey I got from Gorgeous Fabrics until I am confident with every step of this project.

My First Crochet Hat

noreply@blogger.com (MissMasala5) — Wed, 04 Feb 2009 16:21:00 +0000

While feeling under the weather over the weekend plus it being extra cold down in my basement sewing area, aka the Craft Dungeon, I spent most of my time convalescing in bed. All the while, though, I was itching to make something. And I did--my very first crochet hat.

I got the idea from this episode of Thread Banger. I learned the basics of crotchet as a child from my older sister but never stuck with it long enough to make anything. I am happy that it all came back to me as soon as I started, just like riding a bicycle, but making that hat was no easy feat. I kept getting ruffles. I must have started over at least 5 times. Being sick and under the influence of cold medicine probably didn't help. But I was determined to make it.

I began to get a little frustrated with the ruffling but convinced myself not to pull the yarn loose yet again, so I called a friend over to help me out. She convinced me that the hat would turn out fine, but next time keep my stitching tension even. Yes, ma'am! She began crocheting last fall, having learned from workshops with the Double Stitch Twins, Erika and Monika Simmons. She brought over their wonderful book, Double Stitch: Designs for the Crochet Fashionista, and a few of her pieces she learned from the twins. Her pieces were so funky and fabulous! Halters, chokers, headwraps, collars--It was just the inspiration I needed to go ahead and finish up that hat. But first I went online straight away and ordered that book along with another she had with her, Stitch 'N Bitch Crochet: The Happy Hooker by Debbie Stoller.

I really enjoyed the crocheting experience and look forward to doing more of it.

More Fabric Store Field Trips

noreply@blogger.com (MissMasala5) — Wed, 04 Feb 2009 15:43:00 +0000

Finally made that trip to the "Fabric Dump", which was not a dump at all. The Textile Discount Outlet is just your basic, run of the mill fabric heaven! Three full floors of it. Every type of material under the sun. And the staff were nice and helpful. The selection and prices there were amazing. There was a wide selection of trim and embellishments. As for the organization and cleanliness, the basement section was probably not a good place to spend too much time in. I sneezed several times down there, but again, I am getting over a cold. Otherwise, the store is well lighted, well organized on the main floor, very well stocked and definitely a must for anyone in or around Chicago who sews and designs.

*Please excuse the bad camera phone pics.

There were not a lot of shoppers there, being mid-week, I'm sure, but those that were there were mostly interior design people buying home decor material and lots of it. There were so many wonderful and interesting fabrics. Lots of beaded and embellished specialty silks that reminded me of the elegant saris that Indian women wear. There was some really fabulous lace fabric that reminded me of the lace garments in the latest issue of Burda magazine. I saw a nice sized piece of distressed leather in caramel brown that was calling my name and telling me that it wanted to become a bag. It was hard to resist at only $2.50 per square foot! But resist it I did.

I didn't purchase any fabrics at all, since I promised myself to use what I have already before I buy any more. A promise that I sort of already broke...Prior to going there, I made a stop over at the Chicago Vogue Fabrics to say hello to a friend that works there. She was off, but the designer sample bin was on! And unlike the huge paradise flagship store in Evanston, where the bin fabrics are $4 per pound, the Chicago location's bin price was $2 per pound. I got 6 pounds worth: 2+ yards of really nice white linen, 2+ yards of taupe linen and about 4+ yards of grey cotton twill that has spring jacket written all over it. So that's it for my fabric field trips. And now, let the sewing begin!

Easy Breezy Wrap Skirt, Revisited

noreply@blogger.com (MissMasala5) — Fri, 30 Jan 2009 21:59:00 +0000

My first sewing project for myself (and 4th project ever after one crappy apron and two somewhat decent pairs of PJ pants for my daughters) was the Easy Breezy Wrap Skirt pattern from the S.E.W. Sew Everything Workshop book by Diana Rupp. I used some black cotton broadcloth given to me by a generous donor--love ya', girl! My first go around with the skirt resulted in sewing in a lining and omitting the wasitband and ties. I just wasn't feeling them at the time. Here's what it looked like:

Although I was thrilled to have sewn something that resembled a skirt, I was not happy with it at all. I cut a size medium based upon the sizing chart in the book, and it seemed a little big. After a couple weeks of just hangin on my mannequin, I decided to go ahead and try and work that skirt into something I could at least wear once. And I did!

First, I cut that lining out. It was adding lines to the main fabric that were not very flattering. Second, I took the side seams in by half an inch on both sides. Here's the result:

While the skirt is far from flawless, it's way better than it was, IMO. I actually wore it out today! This pic was taken after I arrived home from Hancock Fabrics....which leads to a side story.

In my previous post I mentioned the Butterick Pattern B5315 as a possible option with which to sew a Dior-inspired dress. I found out yesterday that all Butterick patterns were on sale for $1.99, so I went over there this morning only to learn that a) B5315 was not in stock and b) almost all the really nice Buttericks were GONE. Just my luck, huh? Well, all was not lost. I did manage to pick up a few things I needed, like some snaps for my big Russian hat that lost one, some pattern tracing paper, regular pattern paper and some black buttons for a blouse I'm going to be working on, as soon as I am done tweaking my bodice muslin. Aaargh, that muslin! Saving that for another blog post.