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

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 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!

Hello Sewists out in the bloggersphere! If you're like me, you're always hunting for new fabrics and new patterns designers. Well, I have a treat for you. Or maybe you're already "in the know."

I sewed this GORGEOUS strike from Midnight Mountain Fabrics to make this darling top, Elise, from Halla Patterns. 

Both are exquisite and let me tell you why.

First, and most pressing, Midnight Mountain fabrics has these fabrics and a load of other colorways / stripes, coordinates, and gorgeous flowers on pre-order until April 25th. You can find all the options for the Watercolor Roses here. 

Midnight Mountain is a Canadian based fabric company that DOES NOT use stock images, so this ensures that all of their designs are 100% original art and are very unique! These flowers are literally hand-painted and that makes me love them all the more. I'm so ready for spring. 

Prices are expected for custom fabric, and the length of fabric is cut in meters, so for us in the US it feels like a bonus. Also, lets not forget that each transaction is processed in CAD. It's a win-win.

I used the Elise Top and Dress pattern to create this Peplum. I'll be honest, I don't wear this style very often, but it looks so cute on that I may be a convert. I love the detailing on the tabs and the unique (to me) ruching on the waistband. Construction was easy and straight-forward. I like that Halla has lots of options in their patterns. 

-2 pocket styles

-A-line or gathered

-Dress or peplum

-Tabs or no tabs

-Puffy sleeves or straight sleeves

-Layered printing options

-Ruched, straight, or no waistband

I chose the A-line peplum with straight sleeves, no pockets, ruched waistband, and tabs. I actually modified the sleeves to be more "cap" style, but it only gave it a small curved shape. I'm still experimenting with different itty bitty mods until I'm comfortable with them! Over all a success, but I'll shorten the armcye "inseam?" next time.

Last but not least, I sewed a straight size 2/4 HOWEVER!!! My waist measurement is a solid 27" instead of the 26" that the size I sewed calls for. Usually I am a 4 waist, 2 bust, 6 hip. Or whatever variation. 

-Bust -1

-Waist center

-hips +1

I did not grade, I did not modify, I did not give myself extra room. For this I am so sad! I'm spoiled on t-shirts that you can slightly fudge a size. With this quality of knit (slightly thicker) please measure yourself properly!

Ahh, at least my sister gets a pretty top. :)

Don't forget to get your pre-order for the Midnight Mountain Fabrics Watercolor Roses in before April 25th! You can find all the options here. and you can keep up with all the lasted Midnight Mountain news in the MMF Facebook Group!

The pattern I used can be purchased here, Elise Wrap Top and Dress. You can keep up with all the awesome Halla Creations in their Facebook group if you need more inspiration!

None of these links are affiliate links, but I did receive the fabric free of charge in exchange for photographing it after sewing! :)

Yes. Summer is here. At least for the day. Also, happy day light saving! I have loved every moment of our sporadic Washington weather today. I even got to take some pictures at 4pm. Unheard of!

When a new-to-me designer asked for people to sew up some of her less photographed patterns I jumped at the chance to try a new designer and review my experience. I present the Macy Top from Sinclair Patterns designed by Oxana.

Part of my resolution this year is to sew all of my new clothes to help me create a cohesive wardrobe. Slow fashion = clothes I like and will actually wear. The Macy Top is a simple pattern that I've had my eye on for awhile. I'll keep saying it, I NEED MORE WORK CLOTHES. I work 5 days a week. I need work clothes. Somehow fun, skimpy, party clothes keep making their way into my closet, though. I have no clue how it happens. Same with fabric packages, they just keep showing up. If anyone has any ideas to make this stop, please contact me.

I'll tell you a bit about Sinclair Patterns, if you haven't tried them already.

-Most patterns are layered (she's working on updating the ones that don't have layers yet)

-You do have to trim the pages

-Wide size range US0-US22

-Every pattern comes in Petite/Regular/Tall so less modifications for you!

-Comes in Letter, A4, and A0

-Finishing techniques are professional

-Lots of pattern markings to make sure everything lines up perfectly

This simple cowl neck comes in sleeveless and long sleeve options. The top has a facing so the cowl doesn't show stitching when you lean over. (The fabric I used really shows the facing so I'm going to experiment with different fabric types to see what hides it best) The armcye is bound as well as the back neckline and she uses the facing in an awesome way to finish the side seams so they are so smooth! I also enjoy the modest neckline, it's great for work and a professional environment.

I used a charcoal modal from Cali Fabric that I purchased back in November. It's really lovely. This is my first experience with modal and it has such a nice drape and it's SO soft. I want all modal clothing now.

I sewed the US4 with no modifications. I based sizing off of my hips and waist, I should have blended to a US2 for my bust, but I figured that a cowl having a lot of drape by nature, would be fine being a tad big. I think for my next one I'll size down to a US2. It fits a little looser than I'd like around the waist and hips.

Sorry for the awkward angles! My photographer now has weekends off so I have to improvise!

I do hope you'll give Sinclair Patterns a try. I really enjoy her style and the fact that she uses professional techniques. I love to learn new ways of finishing items and I feel that if I keep sewing with Sinclair, I'll learn a lot of great techniques. You can find Sinclair Patterns here and Sinclair Facebook group here.

So, first up on my handmade wardrobe is more work clothes. It's finally time to admit it... I work five days a week (sometimes six) and ten hours a day. I'm at work no less than fifty hours per week and I have about two days of play which account for approximately thirty-two hours of "free time." I don't need more dresses, I need more work clothes. Warm work clothes.

Let me introduce you to my new favorite blouse, the Brasov Wrap Top from Itch to Stitch Designs.

I have loved Kennis' Designs for awhile now. They have the professional drafting of "the big 4" (notching, markings, grainlines, finishing techniques, etc) but with better sizing and directions but the benefit of her group which allows you to ask questions!

At first, I wasn't convinced on this design. I am a small busted girl and high necklines can look unflattering on me so I wanted something lower cut. But after sewing this up, I can't wait to make more. I'll be real with you, including cutting, this top took me about 4 hours which I feel is super excessive. It has a lot of details, but next one should be about half that time. Maybe I was just slow moving.

My standard size in ITS is 0/2/4 bust/waist/hip but since this was knit I chose to do 0/0/4 since I like a more fitted blouse. The only changes I made were on the shoulder pleats. I sewed them 2.5" down (the same as the waist pleats) because I misread the pattern. Turns out, if you're small busted, Kennis suggests you lengthen the shoulder pleats anyway! Accidental win!

I bought the fabric from Cali Fabrics when they had their black Friday sale. It's DBP. I believe they still have white in stock but the black is almost gone. It's soft, cozy, and stretchy. Just what you'd expect from DBP.

I already have two more planned. For the next one, I'll size down once again. 00/0/2. The one thing I noticed is because I sized up on the hips two sizes the ends poke out to form kind of a bell shape. So I'll avoid that this time by keeping the waist and hip portion a more similar size. Plus it's knit, so it will stretch! My measurements are 32/27/37 and finished garment for 00/0/2 are 34/28/36

This has been an awesome addition to my work wardrobe and it's warm! Glad to have my closet growing with professional clothing. Thank you, Kennis!

Details

Pattern: Brasov Wrap Top

Fabric: DBP from Cali Fabrics

Size: 0/0/2

Brasov Wrap Top PDF Sewing Pattern

This post contains affiliate links to help fund my handmade wardrobe project! Thank you for your support.

*This post contains affiliate links to help me pay for fabric rehab*

Hey! Remember when I said I was going to take a break from testing? Yeah, me neither.

So I tested the new Itch to Stitch Lisbon Cardigan that released today. This is absolutely perfect for me as I'm a cold human that works in a large warehouse where I still have to dress professionally. So when I saw the style of this cardigan, I had to test it! What a great excuse to make more work clothes. :D

*If you haven't sewn an Itch to stitch pattern, you are in for a treat. The designer, Kennis, is a detail hound and you won't get through one of her patterns without learning something unless you've been a professional tailor for decades. Her patterns are very professional, yet completely approachable. If you want to test one out first, she always has the Lindy Petal Skirt for free here!* (Picture linked on sidebar)

The Lisbon Cardigan features

-Long sleeves

-3/4 length sleeves

-Full length

-Cropped length

-No hemming, everything is banded!

-Sleeves not cut on fold

-All pieces are notched

-Directions where to interface and which type to use

-Layered printing

-Sizes 00-20

-Tips on Hong Kong finish for seams

I sewed a size 2 for the chest, 0 for the waist, and 4 for the hips according to the size chart and the fit is spot on. The sleeves are the perfect length where they just slide over your hand a tiny bit. The over all fit is slightly relaxed but still fitted if that makes any sense at all.

My buttons are done pretty well, but the spacing is just slightly off on the actual buttons! It will get better with practice, but see that small pucker? Also, my bottom button is way too close to the edge. I only noticed after the button holes were done. Oh well, all part of the process. The next one will be even better. (You know it's a garment I like if I have a next one planned already)

I sewed this up in sweater knit that I bought from Sincerely Rylee last year in one of her mystery boxes that I don't think she does anymore. However, I got a great deal on lots of sweater knits and this was absolutely perfect, however I'm not sure of the exact fiber contents. If I wanted something a little lighter I would probably choose a rayon spandex blend or a cotton Lycra. Maybe this would be cute in a Ponte, too? So many things to try. I'd also like to do a V neck hack. (I'm always trying to push it... I don't do well in matronly clothing. :P) I do feel just a little classy in this outfit though. :D

Don't forget, the Lisbon Cardigan is on sale for 20% off right now! :)

Details

Pattern Itch to Stitch Lisbon Cardigan = $10 

Fabric - aprox. $4 / yard for 2 yards = $8

Notions

Interfacing = $2

Buttons $3

Thread = $.50

Estimated total cost = $25.50

I did receive the pattern for free in exchange for testing it before it was released.

It's Monday! I've got some good news for you ladies on the 9-5. Itch to Stitch came out with a new collection today and all the pieces are perfect for work! You can see the entire collection here. I tested the Zamora Blouse and I'll share some thoughts with you below and a million pictures. 

The Zamora Blouse is a deep cut Pussy Bow blouse with pin tucks and darts galore. It features gently gathered sleeves and cuffs, waist and bust darts, curved hem, and staggered pin tucks down the front. The buttons on the front are fully functioning because this is a fitted blouse. You may be able to slip it over your head, but most likely not. The design is fantastic and totally my aesthetic. It's slim fitted and low cut but still work appropriate. That's a win on all accounts for me. :) 

Here's a close up of the pin tucks on the front. There are 4 on each side. Pin tucks are a labor of love. But when treated with patience, damn. They look so nice! The instructions on this part are fantastic if you've never sewn them before. Kennis explains it very well! The top piece is staggered for each tuck and each fold lines up perfect after all the tucks are sewn in place.

I did struggle with the waist darts. I've sewn darts before but every dart I've sewn has been on the edge of the fabric in some capacity. The waist darts on the front and back are in the middle of the fabric which was a little more fiddly, but it really helped to create a fitted blouse and was totally worth the struggle. (Plus, great practice! I love getting new skills under my belt.)

I blended sizes to create my blouse. The pattern comes with sizes 00-20. Based on my measurements, I sewed a size 0 for the waist 27" - size 2 for the bust 34" - and size 4 for the hips 37", and a B cup. Blending these sizes was easy because the Zamora features layers, so I just printed the three sizes I needed and gradually blended them together as I cut the paper out. The fit feels fantastic. There are some visible drag lines under my bust. Unfortunately I'm not experienced enough to know what caused this or how I can fix it. So I'll be doing some research!

The back has a small pleat and two darts at the waist. I meant to photograph the inside of my blouse, too. Unfortunately I forgot but I did do french seams, so the inside is pretty neat, too.

Note to self: Read. This pattern comes with cup sizes, so if you are a C cup and a size 6, you'll sew a different size than if you're a B cup and a size 6. It's pretty fantastic and helps to customize your fit without a ton of modifications you have to do yourself. All this being said - there a lot of pages to print that you don't need (you only need your size / cup size) Kennis provides a print chart on page 5 to tell you what pages you need to print according to your cup size, then you can choose to use the layers function and only print your specific size.

Can you guess already? Yep. I printed every page and pieced them all together before I realized that I was taping together a D cup. So not my chest size. :) So, check out page 5 before you print! You're welcome. :)

This is my "I'll totally answer the phone and do professional office work, but I'll also probably wink at you." Outfit. It got second glances from the fiance... which is saying something if he's immersed in League of Legends. 

Here's my lay flat picture. So adorable! Can I confess that I actually hate this fabric. I love the buttons, but the fabric is bleh. Blue is just not my color, yet somehow I own a TON of blue. Fabric aside, I love my blouse. I will be making more for work! I actually wore it for work today and got a ton of compliments. 

This is a little less test related but more ... "I got my new sewing machine!!!" related. JUST LOOK AT THESE BUTTON HOLES! HOLY CRAP! It was such a breeze to sew these button holes. No muss, no fuss. I even did extra buttons because I picked up a smaller size. (Hey, they matched so well!) That's pretty unheard of though, amirite? Extra button holes by choice? Yes, I have lost my mind. Directly into my Janome Skyline S7.

 YAAASSSS!

I loved sewing the Zamora blouse. It was a total labor of love. I believe I spend about 6 hours on this blouse alone. I opted to do french seams as my fabric was so prone to fray. All the darts and pin tucks took time, however - wasn't it totally worth it? I am super proud of this blouse and I can't wait to have a collection of them. I believe Kennis puts a ton of work into her patterns to make them impeccable.

There is everything you'd expect in a professional pattern, grain lines, notches, (I believe it's called trueing? When all the folds for the pin tucks make a straight line when they're sewn?), cup sizes, encased neckline and cuffs, drawn instructions, clear directions, layer printing, printing layout, tips for new techniques, and a classic design.

If you are interested in the Zamora Blouse, you can get it here.

Here is the rest of the new collection that is totally work appropriate!

The new releases and entire shop is on sale through March 13th, 2016 with code 4releases. 

Details

Pattern: Itch to Stitch Zamora Blouse $12

Fabric: Clearance at Hobby Lobby Fall 2014. 2 yards $12

Notions

Buttons: $.99

Thread: $.50

Estimated total cost $25.49

I received the Zamora Blouse pattern for free in exchange for testing it.