When you are pregnant and you can't drink wine, just wear it. Fall is on it's way and I'm digging the jewel tones at the moment. Wine is the perfect color to compliment my vampire skin and it reminds me of all the pinot noir that I can't drink right now. 

Anywho, how lovely is this top?! I'm always of the mindset "you get what you pay for." but I only paid $4 for this pattern and I would have paid double and a half. I'm always skeptical when sewing patterns from a new to me designer, but LAVitaly was a gamble and a jackpot! 

This is the Jersery Top V Neck - Front Bow n.50. (What a catchy name!) Kidding. I know with Etsy SEO's are of utmost importance. I did do some poking around before buying though and I saw on instagram that my friend sewed a LAVitaly pattern and after getting her blessing (and warning that it would need to be lengthened!) I purchased this bow blouse.

I sewed a straight size Small in this lovely Surge Fabric Rayon Spandex in Wine. The pattern was great and came together quickly. Her instructions are different than any I've encountered before, though. She uses a Symbol and Key method. Like pictographs. There is a key with all the symbols and what they mean and then each page has pictures and the "key" next to it. If you sew a ton of LAVitaly you will get the hang of it, otherwise you are left like me scrolling back up to see what each symbol means every step. Honestly, it was an easy sew and with basic sewing knowledge, you can assemble the pattern with the pictures only or without instructions at all. 

The only modification I made was to leave off the band and lengthen the bottom by 2". As designed, this blouse has banded sleeves and a banded bottom, but I wanted it smooth to wear under pencil skirts. (Hello, remember my maternity capsule? I told you I'd be adding more tops!)

Can you tell I'm loving the Bishop Sleeves at the moment? It adds such a cute detail without being overwhelming. I certainly do recommend LAVitaly patterns. She has some cute designs and the price really can't be beat. Make sure you check Surge Fabric for all your Autumn sewing needs!

Pattern: LAVitaly Jersey Top V Neck

Size: Small

Mods: Lengthened 2" and left off bottom band.

Fabric: Rayon Spandex in Wine from Surge Fabric Shop

Body Measurements: Bust 34", Waist 2(?) Normally 27" but pregnancy has expanded me, Hips 36".

Also, my husband is simply amazing. Most of our shoots go just like this. He can't help but make me laugh. I think he was talking about my boobs here. Thanks, handsome. Glad you like them. HAHAHA

Remember when you were little and waiting for Christmas or your birthday and it seems like a year was a lifetime. Adults would always say "Enjoy it while you're young, time flies when you get old." I'd roll my eyes. Every day was an eternity! How could time "speed up"? Well, ask me now. 26. More than half way through this pregnancy, more than a third through 2018, and just TWO weeks away from traveling for a month to Texas for work. Time, please slow down! I missed Summer, don't take Autumn, too. 

Whether I like it or not, it's September and that means Washington is already cold so I made a sweater! Except I couldn't JUST make a sweater, obviously I had to do something different. This is my modified Après Ski from Striped Swallow Designs. Don't get me wrong, the pattern is excellent as designed, I've  just wanted a 60's shift dress for as long as I can remember.

Hello 60's! I only missed you by 30 years. 

The Après Ski was the perfect base pattern for this dress and I really didn't change a lot. I NEEDED those bishop sleeves. Be. Still. My. Heart.

 I added length and then I had to modify the neckline because of ... reasons that you will read below.

I encountered several mishaps while creating this garment but perseverance was key! The fabric I chose was something I got from Cali Fabrics for their Black Friday sale in 2017. I had actually intended this fabric to be a Hideaway sweater, but the shift dress won. The stretch and recovery was my biggest issue. I knew that the fabric wasn't ideal for this pattern, but I wanted it anyway. :)

I sewed size small with no mods except lengthening it until I got to the neckline. The damn neckline. It didn't matter how many times I measured and resewed that derned neckline! I ended up making it too big in the end from cutting and resewing it and finally had to compromise and add pleats at the neckline to prevent gaping. Overall I'd call it a win. :D

My husband gives it a huge thumbs up, I give it a "good try, can't wait to make another." and my mom gives it a "why are you wearing plaid when no one is making you?" Don't ask a former Catholic who grew up in the 60's what they think of your plaid dress. HAHA

If you want to see more versions of the Après Ski in it's traditional form, check out the Striped Swallow Designs Facebook Group! You can purchase the pattern here. It sews up quickly and comes in sizes XS-XXXL.

I blogged about my leggings here. 

No affiliate links are used in this post. I did receive the pattern for free from Striped Swallow Designs for being part of their promotional team. All opinion are my own. :)

Life moves quickly and things are always changing. One thing I can always count on though is the consistency of my bitching. 95% of my blog posts start by me complaining that I need more work clothes. It's true. I do need work clothes, but sewing dresses is just so much more fun! However, time waits for no (wo)man and this baby bump sure isn't waiting, either. Little lemon keeps growing like crazy! 23 Weeks the date we took these pics! (9/5) We actually SAW her kick last night for the first time! How exciting. :)

All this leads me to this exciting news. I finished 6 new pieces for my maternity capsule! I still have 2 more tops planned, but SIX whole pieces of work appropriate, maternity appropriate, nursing appropriate clothing! You don't even have to congratulate me, I am already high-fiving myself.

This mini capsule includes:

2 Cardigans

3 Tops

3 Skirts

with at least 2 more tops planned.

I did use a lot of pink, but the fabrics I have planned for the extra tops are navy and wine colored which I think will look great with the floral skirt!

Let's jump right in! I didn't photograph every piece with every other piece but they all go together pretty seamlessly.

(Also, can we all forget about the sun drags on these pics and just be happy that our husband took these photos for us when we all know he'd rather be in the garage playing pool? Stop being an ungrateful turd.) (That was strictly a note to myself. LOL)

First up and my favorite combo of all!

Top: New Horizons Designs Cascade Tee. Sleeveless. Size 4. 

Fabric: Peach Modal from Surge Fabric.

Skirt: Megan Nielsen Erin Maternity Skirt. Version 3. Size S at waist blended to XS for hips. 

Fabric: Black Ponte from Surge Fabric.

Heads up to the other pregnant ladies, MODAL IS THE SHIZ. Two reasons. Reason one: It keeps you cool like rayon spandex but without stretching, wrinkling, shrinking, and pilling that can can come with rayon spandex. Two: It is soft and dreamy not isn't see-through! The main reason I love it is it doesn't pill on me like rayon does. Give it a shot. Surge Fabric carries a wide verity of colors in Modal.  Hot Tip: Don't iron modal fabric with a hot, hot iron, it will leave imprints and give the garment a subtle pressed look all the time. Please don't be me (lazy) and forget a pressing cloth. It is your friend.

Next up is this cute cardigan add in. The skirt is the same skirt as above!

Top: Halla Madeleine Cowl Neck Top. I blogged about this top here.

Fabric: Melody Floral on Coral Ity from Surge Fabric.

Cardigan: Helen's Closet Blackwood Cardigan. Size S at bust and waist blended to M at hips. I also shortened the arms by three whole inches. I never knew how short my arms were. (Shrug)

Fabric: Onyx Brushed Sweater Knit from Surge Fabric.

I really love this cardigan. The pockets are perfect for my phone and there are no buttons which makes it quick and super maternity friendly because it doesn't look like it *Should* be buttoned. It's just loose and lets your belly grow. :) The Onyx brushed sweater knit from Surge is unlike any fabric I've tried before. It really is *brushed* on one side and doesn't feel sweatery on the inside. Somehow it's still cozy af though. It will be really nice when I'm wearing a long sleeve because the smooth interior won't move the undershirt and stick to it.

Last outfit with this awesome skirt!

Top: Itch to Stitch Brasov Wrap Top. Blogged here.

Side note: Surge Ponte is the BEST way to feel professional but also feel comfortable. This is the closest I can get to "jammies at work." and I'm loving it.



This has to be my second favorite outfit. I've gotten so many compliments on this wearing it out! It just look really fun and flirty to me but still passing as professional. Gah. My maternity clothes are cuter than my normal wardrobe. (It's good though, I need an extra confidence boost as I grow in strange places and feel uncomfortable almost 98.99% of the time.)

Skirt: Megan Nielsen Erin Maternity Skirt. Version 1. Size S at waist blended to XS for hips.
Fabric: Coral and Navy Floral Scuba from Surge Fabric.

 Yes, I am aware the pic on the left is a little weird. Let's not talk about it. I included it because I love the contrasting stripes on the cardigan and that was the best view I had of it! This again is the Blackwood Cardigan by Helen's Closet. This was my first rendition and as you can see the sleeves are far too long. I shorted the black version by 3" in the arms. That is why I love sewing! This fabric was purchased black Friday of last year from a different shop. I'll blog about it eventually. Any sweater knit is great for this pattern. :) Also, no real need to blend sizes in this pattern like I did, straight small would have been fine because there are no closures.

 Side note for Scuba: The MN Erin skirt pattern says scuba is a fine choice but recommends 4 way stretch. This fabric only has two way but it is just too pretty to pass on so I made it work! It is actually still pretty comfy, if you decide to use a fabric with 2 way, I would recommend adding a back vent, though. The ponte is definitely easier to move it. I have worn it to work and will continue to do so though!

My final piece!

Skirt: Sinclair Amaya. Size 4.

Fabric: Charcoal Ponte from Surge Fabric.

I made a size 4 for this pattern and I had to take a TON in on the sides. I guess better too much than not enough, but it was a lot. I will size down for the next one. The Amaya Skirt works surprisingly well for maternity for not being a maternity piece! I don't think I'll be able to wear it into my 3rd trimester, but I didn't plan it as a maternity specific piece to begin with, so I'm perfectly fine with that. :)

Phew! I don't know if I spent more time typing or sewing. I hope this gives some of you mom's-to-be some inspiration for your maternity wardrobe. This, for me, is just a starting point that I'm going to continue to add to. I have been working really hard on sewing things that I can wear during and after pregnancy and so far all these pieces except the two Megan Nielsen skirts are not intended for maternity but are working great! Most of the tops that I have sewn and have planned are good for nursing as well. I love, love how they all work together. It takes a lot of the "planning" out of what to wear in the morning. Capsules FTW.

Thanks for reading to the end! I hope you'll check out these awesome designers as well as Surge Fabric Shop and join their Facebook group for all the updates on sales and new stockings!

No affiliate links are used in this blog post. I do, however, receive a discount for helping to promote Surge Fabric Shop.

Happy Friday, Friends! It's not my Friday, it's my Wednesday but I'm happy for those of you who get to experience the weekend! :)

I whipped up some Ninja Pants from 5 Out of 4 Patterns this week because frankly, I'm growing out of all of my "skinnies." I mean, they "fit" but that pressure on the little growing lemon is just too much. She's 10" now and growing like crazy. The new addition doesn't leave much for me to wear, unfortunately. 

This amazing black fabric is circular knit from Surge Fabric Shop and these Ninja Pants are for the weekly "Free Pattern Friday!" We all know of a few free leggings patterns, but this was one I haven't heard a lot about so I decided to give them a shot. Let's take a peek at the pattern and fit.

This Pattern comes with several great options.

#1 on my list was a super low rise for maternity wear. It's so great to not have anything putting pressure on my lower stomach. 

-Sizes XXS-5XL

-Layered pages

-No side seams

-Seven inseam lengths

-Four rise options

-Full gusset

Even though this pattern is free with a code in the 5 out of 4 Patterns group, there was no skimping on quality! I own other 5oo4 patterns and this one is identical in the drafting, sizing, and quality. 

I did feel that there could have been more markings on this pattern of where to align things, waistband notches, etc. but over all it was super easy to construct. It's 3 pattern pieces, legs, waistband, and gusset. They also fit very snug and comfy just as you'd hope leggings would! :)

The fabric I used is an absolute dream! I grabbed the Matte Circular Knit from Surge Fabric Shop and it's so nice! I love Kayla's selection of athletic fabric. This is cozy and fits tighter than a DBP or CL would in these leggings. If you haven't tried circular knit, please do! It's a great fabric to use.

 

Make sure to join the 5 Out of 4 Pattern group on Facebook for the exclusive code to get this versatile leggings pattern for free! 

Pro Tip: Sign up for the 5 out of 4 Patterns newsletter for an awesome discount code, too!

Check out Surge Fabric Shop for amazing athletic fabrics at great prices and follow along in the Surge Facebook Group for a new Free Pattern Friday featured each week!

Hello August! My tomatoes are growing nicely in the garden, the cherry variation are plenty and I can see one red one outside right now! The heirloom are growing big too, but not any hint of red yet. Unfortunately, the gigantic orange jungle slugs got our peppers, but it's the first year with any plants, so we're still learning. 

Two more non-sewing related updates, one, I'm over 4 months pregnant! We should meet our sweet little lemon early next year. Two, I dropped my beloved camera of 12 years. It made a great excuse to get a new one and I picked up a new Nifty Fifty lens to go with it. It is true love. So you can look forward to seeing more pictures on the blog!

Onto the sewing! This is probably my favorite thing I have ever made. I seriously love this dress. I wore it to Seattle with friend the yesterday and received SO MANY COMPLIMENTS from absolute strangers. I wanted to shout, "I made it!" to everyone, however, as to not embarrass my friends, I just kept it cool and breathily said "hhaaaaa, thankssss." I am as awkward as I possibly can be most of the time.   

This is the famous Miss Ruby Tuesday from 1 Puddle Lane. I have owned this patter for over two years and this is the first time I've made it. It is not the first time I've printed and taped the pattern though. I procrastinate and then I lose pieces. I actually sewed it because I need maternity clothing. It doesn't look like it, but my belly is starting to poke out and I don't have clothing to fit the impending bump. MRT to the rescue! (So far, we'll see how it fits in a few months.)

I fit squarely into the size XS and I sewed it with no modifications. I do own both add on packs for the MRT (Bodice and Skirt). This dress is add on bodice "D" and the original circle skirt. I think for the next one I'll chose the skirt with the side seam pockets. I miss pockets for my phone. This is the circle skirt with one center back seam instead of the side seams. 

By this point you're probably screaming at your screen saying "WHERE DID YOU GET THAT LOVELY FABRIC?!" It's the ever trendy double brushed poly and I got it at So Sew English. That store has such a cult following and I can kind of see why. They stock very cute prints! I actually believe they're stocking more lemon fabric today! 8.2.18 but don't quote me. I think I saw an announcement on Facebook.

The whole dress would have come together (cutting fabric to hemming) in about two quick hours but I was fighting a migraine and I COULD NOT figure out the pleats. Honest, it took me and hour and forty minutes just to do 6 pleats. It was terrible. I have no idea why I struggle so much with the direction of pleats, but it was a puzzle I just couldn't crack.

FYI, this pattern and it's additions looks super expensive, but it's so affordable if you realize how well drafted the pattern is and how many options are included! I wouldn't say it's 100% beginner friendly, she does assume some sewing knowledge but overall they directions are good and the pattern fits beautifully.

Details:

Pattern: Miss Ruby Tuesday by 1 Puddle Lane

Bodice D with cap sleeves and original circle skirt with center back seam 

Size: XS

Fabric: Double brushed poly from So Sew English Fabrics

Photo cred to my amazing firecracker best friend, Katherine Davis.

I love combining my favorite things. Sunshine and swimming. Ice cream and root beer. Friends and coffee. Surge Fabric and Striped Swallow Designs. I swear, his chambray was created specifically for being sewn into Coachella Shorts. /Swoon

Did you know that today is the LAST day to take 40% off of all Striped Swallow Designs Patterns? Check her Facebook Group here for all the details. It is SSD's fourth anniversary of her first pattern. (The girl's Coachella Shorts!) I'm happy to be sewing the Women's Coachella Shorts during Striped Swallow Designs Anniversary!

I aslo took full advantage of the awesome bundle deal that Surge Fabric offered for woven and trim to this past month. They have deals every week so make sure you follow along in their Facebook Group! 

Honestly, this is a "looser" outfit than I'm used to, but I love the combo of the shorts and tank. This is a RTW tank but could easily be recreated with your favorite loose fitting tee. Maybe the Moon Dance Tank?

The Coachella Shorts are a pretty easy sew. Like all Striped Swallow Designs Patterns, just follow the directions and you'll have an amazing piece! These are the second Coachella Shorts I've sewn, the last ones were in 2014!) and please DO follow all the instructions. You may think "Hmm, I could probably skip that basting step." DON'T. It makes turning the trim to the front SO much easier. I know from ... experience. Haha

I sewed size small, relaxed fit, low rise coachella shorts. My Waist is 27" and my Hips are 37".

Make sure you check out Striped Swallow Designs to take advantage of their biggest sale of the year!

Here are the links to the Black Chambray and Trim I used to create these shorts. You can join Surge Fabric Shop Facebook group to see all the deals and wonderful fabric creations using their fabric. :)

Since the beginning of the year, I have been on a clothing buying hiatus. My New Year's Resolution was to not purchase any clothing in 2018. It's all been easy up until the point I realized I need work clothing. Have I mentioned I work all the time? Yep. Three 11 hours shifts, one 10 hour shift, and one 7 hour shift. It's outrageous. Some how I have more "fun" clothing than I do work clothes. I'm trying to change that ... at a snail's pace. -_-

I picked up the newish Halla Madeleine Cowl neck top as it's completely work appropriate and it looked like a simple sew, and it's flattering for my small *ahemm* bust. lol I paired this pattern with the new ITY line released by Surge Fabric Shop! God, I love this fabric. The color isn't something I normally go for, but it's so pretty! My husband has given me no less than five compliments on it. :P 

I chose the short sleeved ruched version of this top. Perfect for summer, and especially perfect with this stunning coral color. 

I sewed size 2/4 graded to 6/8 at the waist per my measurements. This is a standard adjustment on Halla patterns for me. I'm a little less curvy and than my husband likes to pretend. Hahaha the measurements don't like like friends do!

As far as the pattern goes, it was pretty easy to follow. I had a splitting migraine, so I'm wondering if all my complaints are due to the headache? I'll be making more so I'll update! 

1. I found it hard to find the back neckline chart. Turns out it's on the actual pattern piece. We'll chalk that one up to the headache. 

2. The order of the instructions confused me. It directed you on how to make the pleats first. I didn't understand that this was a step to refer back to after you begin constructing whichever style you chose, ie. ruched, short sleeved, etc. Then when the pleat part comes up, refer back to the beginning. 

Regardless, headache and all, I managed to get it done in 3.5 hours with only a small 20 minute nap and stopping to eat dinner. lol 

Despite the two small issues, I can't wait to make a few more of these! I already have another shipment of fabric on the way lol. Also, once you've made something once, things usually go smoother the following time around. 

This color and the other ITY colorways over at Surge Fabric Shop are gorgeous! Make sure you grab some before they sell out! It would make a wonderful dressing robe, MRT dress, culottes, or a cowl neck. ;)

This post contains affiliate links to support my Taco Tuesday addiction.

I keep talking about how I need more work clothes. I work all the time. yet here I am sewing up a gorgeous lace back tank. *Sigh* When will I learn?

I purchased the Marbella Tank during a sale on New Horizons patterns sometime this past spring and it has sat printed on my sewing floor for weeks and weeks. When I made my most recent purchase from Surge fabric shop I realized that Kayla still had some Marbella kits in stock so I snagged one. The match is perfection. I love all the laces that Surge Fabric Shop carries. 

The pattern is quick and easy and I love that there is no binding or facing or anything fancy. Just turn under the edges and coverstitch or hem! The top fits great and I love the back to show off that gorgeous lace! The only thing I wonder is HOW do people get away with not showing their bra straps? I'll be honest, I'm not one to try to hide my straps all the time, really only for photos, but I don't know how others do it. Strapless bras do not work for my body. Regardless, this pic below is in true form and it's how I really wear my tank. Maybe I'll be more sophisticated as I age. :P

The cream fabric is my favorite fabric, Modal in the cream color. It is slightly see through so I just tossed a tiny cami underneath to hide the FRONT of my bra. (See, I do have *Some* class).

The Marbella Kits are no longer in stock on the Surge Fabric Shop site, but all the individual materials are and I've linked them above!

If you haven't made the Marbella from New Horizons Designs I encourage you to do so! It's quick, easy, and looks very off the rack. Check out Surge Fabric Shop for awesome laces to dress up this tank, too. I need a handful for this summer.... but maybe I'll try to get some work clothes in first. 

Details:

Pattern: Marbella from New Horizons Designs

Fabric: Surge Fabric Shop Modal

Lace: Surge Fabric Shop Seafoam and Cream Lace

Fabric was sponsored by Surge Fabric Shop and the pattern is a freebie from Mimi G Style! All sewing efforts and buttons were provided by myself. ;) 

Summer is scared of the PNW. It was 85 three weeks ago and now it's in the 50's. Make up your mind, Washington. I want to wear summer dresses. 

My first summer dress of the season came to fruition this week in the form of the new Jessica Dress pattern from Mimi G Style. Can you even believe this dress is FREE? Here's a link to the dress. You will have to sign up for the Mimi G Style mailing letter and you'll get the pattern in your inbox shortly afterwards. Be fast though, the link expires just 24 hours after you receive it!

If you're not a member already, the Surge Fabric Shop Facebook group features a new free pattern each Friday! It's a really fun way to showcase all the awesome free designs you can find and see them sewn as well as have someone who's made it make.

I sewed the free pattern this week and used some new rayon challis from the Surge Fabric shop. Kayla just got 10 new wovens into the shop and they're lovely. You can find them here. 

As for the pattern itself, it was pretty straight forward. I will say that Mimi G Style patterns don't have the typical "hand holding" instructions that a lot of PDF designers have. However, there is a video to accompany the pattern which is great for beginners and more visual learners. I confess, I just followed the instructions per usual so I could stream Survivor... #guiltypleasures

The bodice has a facing instead of a lining. It works well, keeps the entire dress really light. 

Two things. 

One: Make a muslin. This dress does NOT have a lot of ease. My measurements are 34" 27" and 36" and I sewed the straight size small. I could have blended the small at the waist and the XS at the chest, but with it being a paneled top I didn't want to take the edges in on the wrong panel. Now I see I could have just done the side seams. This is why you make a muslin. The waist in size small is designed for 28" and it still fits me snug. I am swimming in the 36" size small bust, though. Make. A. Muslin. It's worth it. 

Two: My buttons are 3/4" but you should choose smaller buttons than I did. The button panel hardly accommodated my buttons on the skirt portion. You should definitely choose 1/2" or smaller buttons if you want the dress to be perfect.

I tried really hard to channel my inner Mimi G, however I still look like I belong at a picnic in the park. LOL Mimi's "Jessica" makes her look fierce and high fashion. One day I'll get there. :*D

Check out Surge Fabric Shop for their new woven collection!

Join the Surge Facebook Group to see new releases and a new free pattern featured every Friday!

Follow this link to get your own copy of the Jessica dress for free!

*This pattern was given to me for free in exchange for testing before it's release. This post also contains affiliate links to help me buy more ramen noodles.*

I sure am fond of knotted tops. They add a fun and interesting detail to an otherwise "normal" tee. It's a top I can feel good about sewing in a solid because, it's already fun enough. :) 

The newest knot style top on the market comes from Itch to Stitch. The owner and designer, Kennis, has impeccable drafting skills and this pattern is no exception.

"The Nottingham Top"

This pattern design features a front knot, long sleeves, elbow length sleeves, or a fun and cute flutter sleeve, all with a modest neckline, and a banded neck. Over all, it's pretty beginner friendly and the clear digital drawing instructions make the knot pretty simple!

I chose a basic heather grey DBP from my stash that I purchased ages ago from Sincerely Rylee.  So so cozy.

One interesting detail about the Nottingham Top is that the sleeves are inset and designed to where the sleeve seam doesn't align with the side seam of the top. Kennis based this off of athletic wear patterns to have the sleeve fit better and cause less stress on the seams. I will say the sleeves are supremely comfortable. She also includes lots of notches which makes sewing a set in sleeve a total breeze. I honestly didn't even have to baste it!

Despite that this top isn't designed for maternity, I believe it will work really well for moms-to-be well into their second trimester. If you wanted to lower the neckline, it would also work for nursing after the baby is born. Just an idea. :)

This pattern comes in sizes 00-20, has layered pieces, clear instructions, digital drawings to aid with the written instructions, 3 sleeve lengths, and sews up quickly! Also, despite the pattern calling for 1 yard and 1/8th, I was able to fit my size 2 top into a single yard. 

This top is on sale for $8 right now and you can find it at ItchtoStitch.com! Don't miss out, this will be a summer staple!