Made By Meg

Sewing Swap Reveal!

2013-06-19T08:00:00.000-07:00

This year I have had the pleasure of participating in the Spring Sewing Swap sponsored by Kestrel Makes. I was paired up with the lovely Sally of The Quirky Peach, whose sewing I have already admired.

Well, the package came last week and I believe I audibly gasped when I opened it - so pretty!

We had already discussed our love of the Scout Tee, and so that soft chambray is destined to become my very first one, perhaps with some two-tone coloring or piping and a pocket. The polka dot is a jersey with metallic gold, which I'm already thinking would make a very cute birthday peplum top for the end of this month. On top of that, I have some thread and buttons to work with, and my boyfriend has been eyeing the set of vintage postcards that came in. Sally, you really do think of everything!

The sewing swap was also fun in terms of shopping for someone else. I found that I was much more conscious of the fabrics I chose, and wanted to really get something that would be high quality! You can check out what I sent Sally over at her blog.

Now, to finish the final touches on setting up my apartment and get sewing. Rebecca - I have been naughty and not set up my sewing machine yet like I promised :( There were bills to pay!

Navajo Quilt Inspiration

2013-06-17T08:00:00.000-07:00

Another quilt that has captured my imagination was this Navajo-inspired log cabin design. It seemed easy enough to make up with just squares, and some gingham + black has provided some funky inspiration:

My design

Wide Quilt Backing in Black + Printed Gingham Linen

Wide Quilt Backing in Black + Hill Farm Gingham

And here's the line drawing: 25 x 29 squares:

That's 725 squares: 344 gingham squares (47%) and 381 black squares (53%). So I will be ordering 5 yds of 108" black backing for the the black squares and the back, and 5.5 yards of 44" gingham for the other squares.

For other things you can create in Excel, check out this guy!

Chevron Quilt Inspiration

2013-06-13T08:00:00.000-07:00

From my quilt post earlier this week, I have been particularly inspired by this fabric, which I think would make a great print, and could easily be done with a simple chevron quilt pattern:

Ghastlie Angle Green

Basic Chevron Pattern

So I mocked up some color combinations to see what my version might look like. Here are three options. Virtual quilt-making sure is easier than the real thing!

Tiny Square Stripe Black +Broadcloth Bright White + Kona Cotton Black

Michael Miller Faux Bois Stripe + Broadcloth Soft White + Kona Cotton Ash

Gilt Trip Line Work Metallic + Broadcloth Straw + Cotton Supreme Solids Navy

Quilts: Inspiration and Patterns

2013-06-11T08:00:00.000-07:00

Our new bedroom is soft grey with a black accent wall at the head of the bed, and filled with neutral woods and furs and things. Since we need new bedding, I have been thinking that this might be the perfect opportunity to make a quilt. I would love to do a white, black/grey, and brown/tan color palette. Here are my inspiration pics on the left, with potential patterns on the right:

Architectural Digest quilt made with Ocean Waves pattern

Design Sponge pillows made with Peppermint Frenzy pattern

Navajo Meets Chevron Quilt inspired by Anthropologie

Clockwise from top left: Ikat Black Queen Quilt, Grey and White Herringbone Quilt pattern, Navajo Log Quilt pattern, Antique Navajo Blanket

Tucson Tapestry pattern

Inspiring Fabrics:

Clockwise from top left: Richloom Ikat, Swavelle Mill Creek Ikat, Ghastlie Angle Green, World Wide Ecuador Ikat, Premier Prints Ikat Dots, Richloom Kashan

Baby Girl Spring Dress

2013-06-06T08:00:00.000-07:00

Pattern: See Kate Sew's Baby Dress and Ruffle Diaper Cover
Fabric: 1 yd quilting cotton
Cost: stash-busting (we'll call it free - this piece has been in the pile for years!)

On Saturday, my coworker gave birth to a beautiful little baby girl! It was a perfect opportunity for me to take advantage of some of See Kate Sew's amazing collection of free patterns, including her very own Baby Dress and Ruffle Diaper Cover.

I made these up in a girlish but not pink fabric, which I thought was fun but not too feminine, and perfect for late spring. Since the diaper cover is for 0-3 months and the dress is for 3-6 months, I more or less randomly sized the dress down so they could all fit the same child. Baby proportions are so weird I hope I more or less got it right!

The dress is finished with a machine-made scalloped edge, which is always fun even if I probably don't do the technique right. Actually, the whole dress was a ton of fun to make, with french seams and little touches, as it was pretty straightforward compared to all the bra- and pants-fitting I've been trying to take on lately.

The only challenge with the diaper cover is that my elastic didn't work as well with it, so I don't think it quite draws in or stretches out enough. But they sure are cute!

Happy BIRTHday little Charlotte!

Settling In

2013-06-04T09:13:00.001-07:00

We are finally restoring some semblance of our lives after the move on Saturday. Monday night we could finally see the floors again:

Move-In Day:

Progress:

After identifying the contents and location of all of our boxes, this morning I was actually able to pluck my eyebrows and clip my toenails (TMI??) before heading off to work. Needless to say, I'm feeling pretty great!

And look, the beginnings of my sewing area are emerging!

Potholders

2013-05-31T08:00:00.000-07:00

Pattern: self-drafted using an existing potholder

Fabric: leftover cotton voile from my 4th of July Dress and homemade bias tape from the Mushroom Lady Shirt

Cost: free (remnants!)

This week, I announced that I just got the keys to my very first apartment!! My realtor has been amazing (seriously, give Maria a call if you're looking in the East Bay), and as a thank you to her I wanted to make her a little gift, from my new home to hers.

My favorite part of this project was definitely the color combo, with the flowers and the stripes and general vintage-y cheerfulness.

My least favorite part was probably everything else. I'm an imprecise sewist, and a project like this definitely requires a lot of attention to detail. The first sticking point was doing the quilting, which puckered and creased the fabric quite a bit. Switching to my walking foot definitely helped, though, and I can see why the foot is always referred to by quilters.

Attaching the bias tape was another challenge, and it's still imperfect in many areas. A zig-zag stitch instead of stitching the ditch helped, and it looks ok if a bit uneven. And let's not even talk about my attempt at embroidery at midnight, which was an utter failure and had to be taken out.

After a good press, however, the potholders ended up looking presentable if not a little bit 'home-made.' I do like the final results, even thought I won't be trying it any time soon! I guess I'll have to think of another present as a thank you to my aunt, who is also a realtor and provided great advice along the way...

My Apartment + Exciting News!

2013-05-29T08:00:00.000-07:00

Last year, I had shared with you the exciting news that I was moving to a new apartment and decorating! I know many of you think it's quite a small space (350 sq ft!), but I have quite enjoyed my time here this past year. Here are the final pictures:

My Studio Apartment:

sleeping area

sitting area

sewing area

my vintage wooden ironing board

the closet! oh I will never have a closet so great again!

Living Room Details:

Sewing Space Details:

Closet Details:

With that said, I have some exciting news for you all! I just closed escrow on my very first apartment!! Manfriend and I are moving in this Saturday, and in the week since getting the keys we have spent the time scrubbing, painting and prepping! I will share more pictures soon, but here's a teaser for ya:

Inspiring Peplums

2013-05-24T08:00:00.000-07:00

This week I shared with you my Fabric Mart tutorial for an easy peplum, and also posted some peplum variations. Below is a collection of some of my favorite sewn peplums from around the blogosphere, and a chance for you to add your own to the collection. At the bottom of the post, join the link party and share your own peplum creation!

Sewn Peplum Inspiration

Nette's Octopus Peplum - such a fun print! And the first peplum that made me think, 'yeah, they're cool!'

Sew Tessuti's Black Peplum Ponti Top - So classic, and amazing with the animal print pants!

The Quirky Peach's Gray Ponte Peplum Top - Another great neutral version, made up using McCall's

Cirque Du Bebe's Tribal Crop - Such a great printed version!

Jolies Bobines's Ava Peplum - A fun sweetheart version

Now it's your turn! Share your peplum (or circle skirt) below!

Giveaway Winner!

2013-05-23T09:50:00.001-07:00

And the winner of the Men's Newcastle Pattern giveaway is...

eennieuwejurk at A New Dress

Congratulations! I've sent you an email with how to claim your prize! And special thanks to all those who entered!

Peplum Top Variations

2013-05-22T14:58:00.001-07:00

Note: Today is the last day to enter the Men's Newcastle Cardigan giveaway!

On Monday, I shared with you all my Fabric Mart tutorial for an easy peplum. Today, I'm back to show you some super simple variations for more peplums and dresses. I love this pattern because, using a simple t-shirt pattern and a circle, you can create so many easy-to-wear, elegant pieces.

Variation 1: Ruffle Peplum

Instead of a circle, attach a gathered rectangle to the base of your t-shirt for a ruffled look. Check out the full Ruffle Peplum Top post for more details!

Variation 2: Easy Circle Dress

I get so many compliments on this one! To make your peplum into a dress, just increase the length measurement of your circle. This is an easy trick that I know many people already know because I've seen a lot of people doing the the opposite - shortening their dresses into peplums! You can read the full Circle Skirt Dress post for more details and my thoughts on circle skirts.

Variation 3: Three-Quarter Peplum Top or Dress

For a less-full look, make your circle into a three-quarter circle by cutting out 1/4 of the circle and stitching up the seam. This can be used for both dresses and peplums. For more details and tips on how to cut the right size three-quarter skirt, read the Mustard Fall Dress post.

Variation 4: Longer Sleeves

I love me an elbow-length sleeve, and that is another easy alteration for this top. Read my post on the Colors of the Wind Dress for more details.

These are all super easy (and somewhat obvious) alterations, but hopefully it sparks your imagination to try out your own peplum top or circle dress! I'll be back Friday with some of my favorite peplum inspirations from around the web, and hopefully a chance for you to share your creations as well!

My Tutorial on Fabric Mart + Discount!

2013-05-20T12:36:00.000-07:00

Pattern: My Peplum Top Tutorial on the Fabric Mart blog

Fabric: Ponte knit from Fabric Mart, 40% off now

Made in partnership with the Fabric Mart Fabricistas

Over the weekend, my tutorial for how to make an easy peplum top went live on the Fabric Mart blog! And what's better than a free tutorial? Discount fabric! Head on over to the shop and get yourself 40% off on all their knits! But hurry! Their fabric is going fast!

Here is a sneak peak of the tutorial:

If you are looking for another great pattern to use with your knit fabric, the GIVEAWAY for the Men's Newcastle Cardigan closes on Wednesday!

What's the Weirdest Thing You've Ever Made?

2013-05-17T08:00:00.000-07:00

If you had asked me that question last week, I probably would have said a rock climbing chalk bag. But oh! How the times have changed!

As many of you sewing buddies know, when you sew you get weird requests. I have said it before. But this is beyond my imagination. The other day, my friend asked if I'd make him a high-fashion adult diaper. A HIGH FASHION DIAPER?!

I asked why. Apparently he was to take part in a very San Francisco fashion show wearing a sweater made out of baby socks. He was allowed to style it however he wanted, and wanted to style it with a high fashion diaper.

I asked to see examples of this designer's work. Here you go.

I asked for some inspiration pics:

What's a girl to do? Even though I was super busy that week, I had him deliver some fabric (stripes?!) and traced off an exaggerated bikini bottom.Adjusted. Cut. Sewed. He said he wanted the stripes to be vertical to elongate the legs...

And here it is! The weirdest thing I have ever made:

front view

back view

runway view

On the plus side, as my new sewing buddy put it, I can now say I've shown my work in a fashion show!

Does this happen to anybody else, or is this just a San Francisco sewist's dilemma??

In other news, if you're looking to make something a bit more normal for your man, make sure to check out my GIVEAWAY!

Blog Celebration and Giveaway!

2013-05-15T09:21:00.005-07:00

This giveaway is now closed. Thanks to all who participated!

A sewing/blogging goal of mine for this year has been to get more involved in the online sewing community - getting to know some more people and taking advantage of what you all have to offer. This week, I reached a milestone with 200 followers! More than a vanity thing (200 people like me? Maybe? Sorta?), having followers and following other people's blogs helps create that strong community where people comment with advice, support, and inspiration! It has been so much fun watching that activity grow on my little blog, and am so grateful for all the love and input I've received from this amazing community.

So, to celebrate this growing network, today I am doing a pattern giveaway from a company that is brand new to the community: one lucky winner will receive a free pdf copy of Thread Theory's inaugural pattern, the Newcastle Cardigan! The pattern just became available for sale today, so if you don't win the pattern here, all you have to do is hop on over to their pattern store and get one for yourself! Here's my version, below:

To enter to win the Newcastle Cardigan Pattern:

If you already follow my blog, just leave a comment below telling me what you'd like to sew for the men in your life! Bonus entry if you tell me if you start to follow, or already do follow, the Thread Theory blog!

If you're new to the blog, please follow me on the reader of your choice (I recommend Bloglovin!) to help my sewing community grow! Comment to let me know you're a new follower, and tell me what you'd like to sew for the men in your life. Bonus entry if you tell me if start to follow, or already do follow, the Thread Theory blog!

The contest will close in one week on Wednesday at 10am PST. As it is a printable pdf pattern, this contest is open to anyone in the world!

Good luck, and happy sewing!

Meg Made May!

2013-05-14T08:00:00.000-07:00

Wow! Me(g) Made May is almost halfway over and I feel like it has just begun! This first half of the month has seen me through many challenges already, including TWO trips - one to Vegas for fun and one to Detroit for work. I also hadn't done laundry yet, so I think there are some goodies spinning in the dry cycle downstairs ready for next week!

Many people talk about rushing to do some mid-MMM sewing, but I like to see just where the past year of sewing has taken me - lying in the bed that I've made, so to speak. Compared to last year, my first MMM, I have a lot more pants but a smaller selection of blouses as I've culled a fair amount from my collection that just didn't fit right. I have been focusing on more purposeful sewing this past year, and I'm hoping that this will be a chance to reflect on the holes in my wardrobe as well as celebrate the succeses and things I reach for everyday!

That said, I'm off to make a blouse that I've been thinking about for a while now, and I'm hoping to finish it before the craziness of the rest of the month kicks in: one more trip, a friend in town, and maybe some painting for a new place...

Here's the roundup for the first half of the month:

*The Work Week*

Wednesday, May 1: Striped Dress - not yet blogged

*Vegas*

Thursday, May 2: Flower Pants for my flight to Vegas!

Friday, May 3: Cutout Dress - Vegas night 1

Saturday, May 4: Vegas Billie Jean

Sunday, May 5: Flare Drape Dress for travel home

*The Work Week*

Monday, May 6: Work week - Striped Shirt (made from too-short dress)

Tuesday, May 7: Red Pants in the office :)

*Detroit Site Visit*

Wednesday, May 8: Winter Swing Jacket for travel to Detroit

Thursday, May 9: Tie-Front Blouse for work meetings

Friday, May 10: Camel Pants - also not blogged yet, yikes!

Saturday, May 11: Striped Skirt for a fieldwork event

*The Weekend*

Sunday, May 12: Finally home! Refashioned Men's Shirt for a lazy Sunday

Vegas Billie Jean

2013-05-07T00:35:00.000-07:00

Pattern: Bluegingerdoll's Billie Jean, now available for pre-sale
Fabric: shantung, cotton lining
Cost: $75

Do you recognize this pattern?? It's Bluegingerdoll's brand new Billie Jean! The debut vintage-inspired pattern by the lovely Abby is now available for pre-sale until the official release on May 15, and in the meantime she was gracious enough to let me try it out!

What I think is most exciting about the Billie Jean pattern is how versatile it is, and that's exactly what I wanted to show you with my version. While Abby rocks her 1950s Billie Jean samples, my dress was destined for Vegas! With its classic princess-seamed bodice, two skirt options, and an almost limitless choice of fabric, the Billie Jean is perfect for dressing up however you choose.

For my version, I chose a shiny raw silk shantung and a daring black and white striped lining, loosely based on this inspiration. You'll also notice I swapped out the skirt for a circle skirt, as the gathered look just wasn't working with my thick, thick fabric. But the real pattern also gives you the options for a beautiful full skirt and a sexy wiggle dress, so there are plenty of choices! I could see this pattern getting a lot of use in a lot of different styles (check out Abby's for more inspiration).

Billie Jean with a circle skirt

In terms of sewing this up, both Abby and I would recommend you make a muslin first, because this is one sexy, slim-fitting pattern. If you're a little impatient to get to your Billie Jean (like I was), you should at least try Lara's technique of fitting the lining first, making your adjustments, and then cutting the bodice.

The pattern pieces go together quite easily, but this pattern is also a chance to practice some new techniques. Along with fitting, you will be making a lapped zipper, doing lining, and gathering a skirt or making a skirt vent (depending on your version). Look for her sew-along, coming soon!

If you buy one and make it up, Abby and I would love to see it!

Lastly, I leave you with a public service announcement: Kids, don't do Vegas. ;)

Faces of Vegas

Men's Newcastle Cardigan

2013-04-24T08:00:00.000-07:00

Pattern: Thread Theory's Newcastle Cardigan
Material: light sweater knit (body) and faux leather vinyl (yoke)
Cost: $20

Have you heard about Thread Theory patterns?! If you're into indie patterns and interested in menswear, then you're about to get pretty excited! Thread Theory Designs is a brand new independent menswear sewing pattern company run by the lovely wife and husband team, Morgan and Matt. That's right: stylish, indie MENSWEAR!

While I've seriously been loving the amazing range of independent pattern companies popping up lately for WOMEN, until now I have struggled to find good patterns for the MEN in my life. I even went so far as to convert the Minoru Jacket into a men's pattern... So, you know I was darn excited when I discovered the Thread Theory site, and I have been eagerly awaiting the release of their patterns.

Lucky me, this past week I had the opportunity to pattern test their first pattern, the Newcastle Cardigan, a gorgeous sweater with a shawl collar for "men who would like to stay cozy but look stylish."

First off, I love the look of this pattern: it's not too over-designed for a man, but still has stylish elements that make it unique and fun. While I am always a little bit nervous when sewing for others, the fit was great, the pattern worked, and we both love the final result! Especially for us casual west-coasters, I think this sweater is the perfect balance between dressed up and not-trying-too-hard cool.

For my version, I found a very lightweight sweater knit at the local discount fabrics, and I couldn't help but pair it with a faux leather vinyl yoke and wooden buttons for that 'hard and soft' look. The faux leather vinyl does have a bit of a stretch, so it worked perfect. I think this element also dresses up the sweater a little bit for a night out on the town (in a very casual San Francisco sort of way), and he can also wear it to work or dinner. The lightweight fabric makes it great for summer, and we already have plans to sew this up in a heavier fabric for the winter!

While I'm pretty notorious for not following pattern instructions, as a pattern tester I followed everything to the letter and was very pleased with the results! The instructions walk you through all the steps with clear pictures, and they have seriously thought of everything! The facings are nicely sewn down in place, the design of the upper and lower collars folds the seam line out of site, and I had no challenges whatsoever with fit. Bravo, especially for their first pattern!

Look for the Newcastle Cardigan pattern to be released on May 15th, and a lucky surprise may be coming your way for one of my readers!!!

Peplum Ruffle Top

2013-04-22T08:00:00.000-07:00

Pattern: McCall's Misses' Tops M6164 + self-drafted rectangle ruffle

Material: knit jersey

Cost:b $5

After putting in a lot of sewing time fitting bras and pants, this was a quick and satisfying project to take on. In fact, not only do I think this ruffle peplum top is pretty darn cute, but it's extremely comfortable!

The details are simple: I cut a t-shirt using my trusty McCall's Misses' Tops M6164 pattern, cropping it at the waist. I then cut a big rectangle, gathered at the waist, and was done! Because I didn't have enough fabric to make a circle ruffle, it doesn't quite have the look of the classic peplum top, but I'll try that out next time. For now, I have worn it at least once a week because it is cute enough for work and play, and very soft and comfy.

The Great British Sewing Bee!

2013-04-17T08:00:00.000-07:00

via Tilly and the Buttons

Everybody's talking about it, and I thought I'd throw in my two cents, too: I just love the Great British Sewing Bee!

I finally had a chance to watch the first two episodes the other night, and I thought it was absolutely delightful! Having never seen (or even heard of) the Great British Bake Off (from which the show format is derived), I wasn't sure exactly what to expect. But compared to a lot of reality TV (Project Runway, anyone?) I loved the quotidian, home sewist feel of it. There's no snarky bickering, they really showcase the sewing and technique, and each person is so darn lovable! As a home sewist, I feel like they really showcased the craft and everyone in it. For each challenge, they instruct the viewer about what the contestants are making, what the components are, and what sewing really is all about. And, as the girlfriend of a tv/documentary editor (which totally makes me an expert!), I thought it had great graphics and camera work!

To my second point: For those of us who sew, you know you've had friends tell you to try out for Project Runway. For me, of course, that is ridiculous - I'm not a high-end fashion designer, I don't drape or sketch, and I've never made a couture ball gown let alone a dress made out of lettuce. But in terms of the Great Sewing Bee - I want to participate! It seems like so much fun, and a great way to test your skills, hang with other cool sewists, and do some reasonable if time-crunched challenges.

I also want to give a big bravo to everyone involved. In the blogging community we are all most familiar with Tilly, who I definitely tuned in to see. As someone who teaches workshops, has just released two patterns, and runs a very popular blog, it couldn't have been easy for her to submit her skills to the test, especially under such pressure. But she handled it all with grace, style and humility and made me like her even more!

Anyway, if you're interested in giving it a watch, you can find the first three episodes on YouTube below:

Great British Sewing Bee Episode One
Great British Sewing Bee Episode Two
Great British Sewing Bee Episode Three

Bra Quest 2013: All My Kwik Sew Bras!

2013-04-15T08:00:00.000-07:00

Pattern: Kwik Sew's Bra #3300
Fabric: interlock knit
Cost: a few dollars each

I tried to like KwikSew 3300. Five times over, in fact. Yes, I have made at least five versions of this bra (more if you count the re-makes and tweaks). I wish I could say I'm completely happy with the results of at least one of those bras, but at this point it seems to have turned into an unhealthy obsession.

Now, before you point out all the bra-fitting resources on the internet to me (including the ones I've already saved to my pinboard), I am a learn-by-doing sort of gal, meaning I'm not likely to seek help until I've worked through something in my own little way first. I find that in this process I actually learn more about the construction in general, and also truly understand what I need to learn when I do seek help. So, below are some utterly wrong and some not-so-wrong fitting techniques that I tried:

When I first tried the bra on the cups were much too big. I thought if I took out the curve from the bottom this would give me some lift and take out the volume. WRONG. This just meant the bottom of the bra didn't conform to the curvature of my breasts, and instead sat on my breast tissue. Not comfortable!

Next up I tried to make the cups smaller by taking off some volume from the top. I also took the sides in under the armpit because those pressed too far into my underarm for comfort. This did give me a smaller cup but I still didn't fill it out, and now I just kind of spilled over the top.

Next I actually looked up some bra-fitting techniques, and decided to play with the cup seam. I removed volume by pinching out a dart-shaped chunk of fabric from the upper and lower cups.

Finally, I also tried to reduce volume by straightening the curve of the cup seam.

I think the stitching and look of the bras turned out great (see below), but at this point, every subsequent bra I made seemed to still need some additional changes. I could continue making these indefinitely, but at some point I just had to call it quits and decide that this pattern just did not work for me.

I ended up not using underwires for this project because my A-cup sized ones are just too narrow for what works on me (even though I don't have much volume, curve-wise I think I need something more like a C). And second, I didn't really notice any difference in lift when I slipped the underwires that I did have into the casings. I will continue to experiment with my next bra pattern.

The main thing I learned in the process is that a big part of what makes a bra uncomfortable is when any part of the band/cup seam sits on your breast tissue - even in a bra without underwires or foam cups, it was still very uncomfortable for me. As you can tell, I am also learning a lot about my breast shape (I'll spare you the details!).

Onward and upward!

It's here! Announcing My 'Me Made May' Pledge for 2013

2013-04-09T15:43:00.002-07:00

It's that time again! Me Made May 2013! (Click the link to learn more and sign up.)

I have been looking forward to this challenge since last month rolled around and the Japanese started doing their own 'Me Made March.' Last year I participated for the first time when I realized you didn't have to wear entirely hand-made outfits and could wear just one hand-made piece each day. It was an incredible experience in that it made me realize that I could really, actually, wear something handmade by me each day, no matter the occasion. You can see the results here.

This year I will be participating again and, like last time, the real challenge will be incorporating my handmade wardrobe into all the activities that go on in May. Last year I was impressed at how easily my own handmade pieces fit into even the craziest activities like camping and special events. This May I have a trip to Vegas planned, as well as a work trip to Detroit, plus all the working and biking and hanging and drinking and fun in between. (P.S. If you live in Detroit and would like to meet up the second weekend of May, let's do it!) I am really looking forward to seeing just how much of me I can put in to May!

So:

‘I, Meg, pledge to wear at least one handmade garment each day of May '13 as part of Me-Made-May 2013.’

Bonus points if I can get loved ones to wear some things I've made for them, too!

Like last year, I will most likely try to do an outfit post a week with all my outfits. At the top of the post is a sample of some of my favorites from last year.

Liebster Award

2013-04-04T23:09:00.001-07:00

The Liebster Award, given by peers to bloggers with fewer than 200 followers, is a great way to introduce some incredible but lesser-known blogs around the interwebs. I was recently given Liebster awards by Ruffles Gazebo, Thread Theory, and Sunny Sewing, who each chose 11 of their favorite small-time bloggers and asked them 11 questions. Thanks so much ladies!

I took a little time to respond with my own post of 11 bloggers and 11 questions because the Liebster award is such a great opportunity to showcase other talent out there, and I wanted to take full advantage of it to share some of my favorite bloggers with you. I'm a bit of a sewing blog fanatic - I subscribe to over 300 (!) sewing blogs - and the ones that catch my eye have beautiful clothes (obviously), are illustrated with inspiring and informative photos, and have authors with a bit of a personality. If you're not already familiar with them, I know you will love the bloggers below as much as I do!

As a bonus, because many of us are transferring to Bloglovin, I took the opportunity to showcase blogs that have less than 200 Bloglovin followers. Hopefully you will check them out and help gain them more well-deserved recognition on the site! So, without further ado, my Liebster Awards go out to:

Small Things is a sewing blog by Lisa, a Dutch sewist who started blogging to document her pledge to make rather than buy her clothes. The garments that she has made since then are both wearable and incredibly creative. As a bonus, she's also developing her first pattern!

Mollytov is a blog I found only recently. Her clothes reflect that quirky cool-girl street style, and her blog offers tutorials along with finished projects. I also just learned that she lives quite close to me! Molly, let's be friends!

Otga Hasbold is a designer I found through her entry in the Tessuti Spots and Stripes contest. Her garments are sophisticated yet fun, and she's one of those ladies who always looks polished and put together.

Shona Stitches is an adorable blog that just makes you want to fill your closet with beautiful handmade goods. And she knits and makes bras, too!

Manic Pop is another blog I recently discovered and fell in love with because of Nicole's fun, bright sense of style. She also shares her love of music and recipes.

Makes Things is written by Stephanie, who has a self-proclaimed love of neutrals, chambray and alpaca yarn. My kind of girl! She puts together garments and outfits that I would totally rock.

Dreaming of Avonlea is a teacher by day and a blogger and dressmaker by night. She makes a ton of adorable (and sometimes even reversible!) dresses and is quite adorable herself.

The Tangible Artiste is a gorgeous mama with great personal style. I don't always follow people who post kids clothes, but her tots are some of the best dressed on the web!

From ? I Was Born and ? I Shall Become is written by an Estonian sewist who makes beautiful clothes in soft pinks and grays accented with lace and studs. Don't be afraid to check it out, she writes about it all in both English and Estonian. Talented girl!

Mabel Makes is written by the beautiful Stephanie who compliments her garments with soft, vintage-looking photos. She recently started blogging, but already has up a lot of her knit and sewn projects.

Home Ec is another new blog. I sometimes skip over blogs that don't show the final garments worn on the sewist, but Stephanie takes beautiful pics of her clean and sharp clothes that make me want to make them up myself (and on a NYC rooftop no less)!

Now, as I understand it, each Liebster Award giver gets to ask 11 questions of her 11 nominees, and has to answer 11 in return. From these lovely ladies, I would love to know:

A bit about you - where are you from and do you have a favorite local sewing store? Can I come visit? (Ok, you don't have to answer that last part.)
How do you choose your fabrics? Do you go with what catches your eye? Have something in mind when you go? Or shop for certain fabric weights or colors?
Are you a cautious, measure-twice-cut-once type of sewist or are you the throw-it-up-on-the-dress-form, make-it-up-as-you-go type of girl?
What is your favorite thing you've ever made (show me!).
What was the most DISASTROUS thing you've ever made and why? (You don't have to, but of course we'd all like to see that as well!)
Do you primarily sew special garments for your wardrobe (dresses, jackets...) or do you try to make everything yourself (underwear, t-shirts...)? How's that going?
Would you say you've found your personal style? Or do your tastes constantly evolve so that what you made last year doesn't work for you any more? Any tips on that front?
What decade other than now most closely inspires your (current) personal style?
Have you ever sewn for others? Did they appreciate it? Did it fit?
What is your day job/day-to-day life like? Are you an all-around creative or is this your artistic outlet?
I know all your friends are telling you to get into the sewing business. Do you ever have aspirations to start your own handmade-related venture?

Can't wait to hear from you all!

And, if you just can't get enough, here are some more blogs that made my list and have already received Liebster Awards:
The Garment Farmer
Not Your Average Average
La Petite Josette
Laika Doll
Catherine Daze's Blog
Ms. Modiste
Momita's Blog

And, hold on, because now you're about to learn a whole lot more about me:

From Ruffles Gazebo:

1. What is your favourite part about sewing/creating, what is your least favourite part?
I love being able to have any sort of fashion I want and have it FIT. I am also quite drawn to the process of creating, whether the finished garment works out or not. Right now I am seriously struggling to perfect my fit, and that has been exhausting to say the least.

2. Is there a good amount of resources where you live? If not, what places do you use online that you use/love?
I love the resources that exist in the San Francisco Bay Area. I love Stone Mountain and Daughter for its local staff and selection of high-quality fabrics at good prices, and around the bay you can find everything else from locally-made yarn to discount fabrics (all with incredibly friendly and knowledgeable staff). My mom also finds some great resources in her home in Santa Cruz County, but when even she had trouble getting a double zip zipper, I knew I was blessed with all I had up here!

3. What inspires you to create?
Sometimes I see a beautiful garment I want to re-create. Other times I wake up from an evening nap and just HAVE to make something. More recently, I have been really forcing myself not to buy RTW clothes, so I have to make things if I want to have it.

4. How does sewing or handmade things influence your daily life?
Day-to-day wise, sewing is a hobby. Everyone's gotta have something to do after work, whether it's raising kids, playing sports, knocking back a few beers, or being in a rock band. Mine is sewing (though I do enjoy the occasional sport and the more than occasional beer). On a more personal level, sewing allows me to create exactly what I want to wear (if I get it right!) and define my own style, without having to rely on cheap garments and fast fashion.

5. What is your favourite self-made garment/object/thing
That's a hard one! I think my truly favorite but hardly ever worn would be my artsy-fartsy Holiday Drape Dress. On a more practical level, I have recently loved the pants I've been making (here's my first pair) because they are soo comfy, even if I'm still working on the fit.

6. What is your favourite hand made thing by someone else? Pick if you can!
On the pants theme, I am currently loving Sunni's trouser. On the beauty scale, anything by the young and incredibly talented Esther from the Sticks is AMAZING. That girl is going places!

7. If you get someone else to make something for you, what would it be?
I would truly love to have someone make me a custom pair of shoes. Or a leather purse.

8. What is your blogging goal for the year?
My blogging goal has been to increase my interactions with the sewing community this year. I have already made some progress on that front (look for upcoming updates!), and the Liebster Award is another fun way to do that.

9. If a web designer came along and offered to spice up your blog for free, what would you ask him to do?
I am planning on changing my blog layout from a three column design to a two column design so that my photos fit better, and I would also love to spruce up the color scheme. I will probably do this myself with my basic html skills when I make the time.

10. What is your favourite food?
I love good food, but deep down I'm a carb girl. Fresh cooked bread all the way!

11. If you could learn to make anything what would it be? eg. Bikes, furniture, home made beauty products, veggie patches, silversmithing
I currently am very seriously looking in to how to make shoes! I am very excited about the prospect and can't wait to have the same control over that as I do over my handmade clothes. I would also love to make furniture...

From Thread Theory:

1. If you could choose anything (absolutely anything!) as a career, what would it be?
I currently work with a company that helps non-profits do better work by doing evaluations and strategic planning. I thoroughly believe that if everyone in some small way held a job that worked to make the world a better place instead of make a quick buck, we'd be in a lot better of a position. However, if we ever got to that point and everyone was a small business owner, I think I would love to do something a bit crafty. Sewing is great, and I also love me some home design! Of course, I'm a nerd at heart, so it would have to stay true to that as well.

2. What garment would you most like to add to your wardrobe?
As some of you know, I've been desperately trying to make a decent bra. So far, the quest continues...

3. Where do you like to shop for fabric?
As I said above, there are plenty of good places around, and I most often find myself getting material at Stone Mountain and Daughter and random notions and things at Discount Fabrics.

4. What movie most inspires you to sew?
Hmmm... My boyfriend makes documentaries, so I do end up watching a bit of film, but I am generally not inspired by costuming. However, I did become enthralled with shawl collar sweaters after seeing a great one in There Will Be Blood. Weird, I know.

5. What are three key things that you would add to your dream sewing studio?
A cutting matt would be nice. Actually, while we're at it, a cutting table would also be nice - I currently sew, sleep and live in a 350 sq ft studio, so there's not much table room to cut. And then? If we're really dreaming then I'd love an embroidery machine!

6. Are you a PDF or a paper pattern person? Why do you prefer one over the other?
I like PDF patterns when I decide that I. MUST. HAVE. A. PATTERN. RIGHT. NOW and can download it quickly from the internet. However, paper patterns are always easier to work with and store away for later use.

7. Other than sewing, what most preoccupies your time?
My day job, as I said earlier, is working with non-profits. I also like to drink good beer with friends, travel if I get the chance, and do a little home decorating!

8. What type of garment interests you the most as a sewing project: Something that highlights an unusual fabric or something with a basic fabric and unusual details?
Some day, I will make my own wedding dress. Some day...

9. Do you have sewing buddies? If so, who/what are they (friends – in person/online, pets, family)?
I am developing a few sewing friends here and there on the webs and a bit in real life. I mostly sew alone with NPR on, so you could say that Ira Glass and I are good sewing buddies.

10. Do you have sewers in your family history? What type of projects did they mostly sew?
My mom taught me to sew and allowed me to use her sewing machines. I tried to teach her how to knit, but that didn't go over so well. She has made all sorts of things, but the most memorable is that she made a lot of my baby clothes.

11. If you could pick any new subject to spend a year learning, what would it be?
I always regretted not learning music. It would be kick ass to play the fiddle!

From Sunny Sewing:

1. What drew you to sewing?
For something that I spend so much time on, I wish I knew. Quite honestly, it just sort of happened. I learned from my mom, took sewing classes here and there, and got a sewing machine my last year of college, but I'm not really sure how it became such a full-on addiction. Having some time on my hands and such an encouraging community definitely help. You are all enablers!

2. What is is your most favorite thing you've made thus far?

I talked a bit about this in Thread Theory's question, so I'll pick another favorite. A recent fave that gets tons of compliments is my Winter Swing Jacket. Interestingly enough, it's made out of the same fabric as my other favorite, the Holiday Drape Dress.

3. How many hours a week do you sew?
Sometimes I barely get any, and sometimes - god - probably up to twenty? Usually something in the middle is a good balance. Too little and I feel antsy, too much and I'm probably holed up in my room, which can't be too healthy either.

4. What is your favorite pattern company to sew from?
I used to buy very few patterns and just Frankenpattern whatever I came up with, taking my inspiration from RTW. I now also own several patterns from the Big 4, but by far my favorite have been the indie pattern designers. They are the more expensive, but they are often exceptionally well done. You can also usually interact with the maker!

5. Who do you like to sew for most?
Myself! Hands down! You all know what happens when you knit a boyfriend a sweater...

6. Roughly how much fabric do you have stashed? Some, a lot, or I'm buried!
I think a non-sewist would say that I have a lot, but compared to other sewists I know I would say I have some. I have one small closet-length shelf that holds all my fabric and yarns, although it probably is enough to make more than 30 garments!

7. What do you like to do besides sewing? Other hobbies?

As I mentioned before, friends (and beer), traveling, being homey. I should also mention that I once was a very serious runner, but that has waned a bit with some knee injuries over the last few years and the demands of a 9 to 5.

8. Who inspired you to start sewing or who inspires you now?

My current biggest inspiration are other sewists. There's always a new idea, a new pattern, and a new way to make it!

9. What made you want to start a sewing blog?

I originally started my blog in 2007 to document the things I made as a sort of personal journey. I knew they wouldn't last forever, and I wanted to have pictures of my projects and notes on how I made them. Since then, I have discovered an entire community and blogging has become so much more than that. Sometimes I worry that it even takes up as much time as sewing!

10. What sewing item are you dreaming of getting, regardless of cost?

Fabric, fabric, fabric. I am pretty happy with most of my sewing tools, having inherited a large assortment of things (including my serger) from an old neighbor. But who doesn't dream of always buying more fabric?! That and, like I said above, and embroidery machine would be dreamy.

11. Tell me something about you that most people who read your blog do not know!
Some people who follow my blog closely know this, but I am fluent in Spanish and have lived in Mexico City. Incidentally, while I was there my Senora let me borrow her sewing machine and I made dresses out of embroidered folk dresses. You can read all about it at my Mexico diary/blog. It was fun to write because I actually got to do some writing there, if you know what I mean.

Whew! OK guys, thanks for playing! See you again soon!

Bra Quest 2013: The Ready to Wear Bra

2013-03-29T08:00:00.000-07:00

Pattern: copy of a RTW bra
Fabric: interlock knit
Cost: $5

Last week I showed you my vintage bra, and today I'm back with my copy of a ready to wear bra. And let me tell you, it was a disaster!

Have you ever seen those tutorials online that make it seem so easy to copy RTW or just draft your own pattern (as Amy can tell you, it's not). Well, I decided to give one of those a go using this little snippet from Pinterest - you just shape pattern paper over your bra cup, and voila, bra pattern! Well, as I learned, RTW bras, with their foam cups and padding, are really quite different than my little bralettes, and I ended up with a cup that was way too short and shallow. Here's what I did, but don't copy it!

I'm sure I did a ton of things wrong drafting-wise, but the real lesson here is that sometimes it's best to use a pattern until you've got the hang of it. On to the next one - KwikSew 3300!

Bra Quest 2013: The Vintage Bra

2013-03-22T08:00:00.000-07:00

Pattern: Mrs Depew's 1940s French Bra #2014

Fabric: interlock knit

Cost: $6

Finally, my first bra test! After gearing up for my bra quest, finding my size, testing some department store bralettes, and picking my patterns, I made up my first muslin! This is the vintage 1940s reproduction from Mrs Depew, which I chose because of its vertically seamed cups and similarity to some of the bralettes I have been coveting online.

From the pattern picture, however, it was hard to tell exactly what the bra would look like made up, so I just bought the pattern and dove in. While slightly different than I anticipated (I thought there would be a full band under the cups), this bra actually worked out quite well for my first try, with a few modifications. Here's my process:

1. Re-drafted pattern pieces so that the four darts all became seams

2. Sewed cups together

3. Sewed cups to bridge and back strap

4. Finished top and bottom the raw edges with fold-over elastic; added straps and closure

Here's a close-up of the seams. The whole thing does look very neat and tidy, if I do say so myself!

Because I do have some practice making bathing suits, the whole thing came together in just a few hours, and is actually very comfortable. The fabric is an interlock knit, which gives it some softness and stretch yet is still firm enough to hold everything in place.

However, what it has in comfort it's missing in shape. While it's surprisingly not bad for my first attempt (there's no pulling or tugging), it fits more like a sports bra and doesn't provide much lift or curve. In fact, it has much more of a flattening effect on me. Part of this is due to the fit - the bridge does not lay flat on my chest as it should, and believe it or not I think I need a little more curvature in the cups. The pattern says it's multi-sized, yet only has adjustment lines for the length of the back of band, so it is definitely an A/B-cup pattern and I wouldn't recommend it for a larger gal.

My next bra muslin will be traced off of a ready-to wear bra, so we'll see how that fit turns out next week! I've also started looking at fabric for making up the final bra, and am loving Summerset's bra kits, which seem like an affordable way to get something nice. Be back with more next week!

Bra Quest 2013: The Patterns

2013-03-19T08:00:00.000-07:00

The Bra Quest continues! As you remember, my plan is to sew my way through four bras to find the perfect one:

- A vintage bra
- A copy of a RTW bra
- A bra pattern from the Big 4
- A bra pattern from a smaller pattern company
- And (hopefully) my dream bra using whatever works best from the previous four!

Now that I've scoped out the bras I like in RTW and found my true size, I combed the internets for the right patterns to sew up. For at least my first bra, I knew I wanted one thing in particular: vertically seamed cups. For a small girl like me, I feel that they do the best job of holding them up vertically rather than spreading them out horizontally. Other than that, I have really appreciated your recommendations for good bra patterns.

Here are the ones I'll be sewing up:

#1 The Vintage: Mrs Depew's 1940s French Bra #2014

#2 The RTW Bra: Copying my Target Gilligan Bra (and other random bras around the house)

#3 The Big 4 Bra: Kwik Sew's Bra #3300

#4 Indie Bra: Pin-Up Girls' Classic Full-Band Bra #1200

I chose these bras based on their look, online recommendations, and range of options such a bands, lace etc. I might also try the Elan Bra #511 (at your recommendation!), but it has some of the features in the bras above so I'm going to stick with the above ones for now. Ok, I'm off to get started on #1! Wish me luck!