Tag: sew

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Complete McCalls 6083 E Jumpsuit, this was fun to make. I made a light blue leather belt with three knots in the middle to match.

Project Review Detailed Pattern Description: Misses Tops with variations
 Pattern Used: McCalls 6084 Pattern Sizing: I cut the 8
 on the top, 14 bottom

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done? Yes I would say so


Were the instructions easy to follow? Yes, the instructions were clear.


What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? The crotch was a bit short, I had to adjust the waist. If I sewed it again to would make the bodice longer.

Fabric Used: Stretch striped denim— Mood Fabrics NYC


Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: Created more width in the hip area.

Would you sew it again? Yes might make the halter view in pants.

Would you recommend it to others? Yes, cute jumpsuits in long and short pant variations.

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So I have received a few inquires on “what” I have learned..
I purchased this piece of leather from Michael Levine Fabrics in LA without really knowing much about leather, but I was sure I needed an orange clutch lol
First this piece is extremely soft, easy to cut, and easy to sew. its like butter.  Actually its so easy to cut that it will stretch on you.  I used regular all-purpose thread and a regular needle. I did not need to use a leather needle because the leather is not tough.  Also you can iron this leather as long as you have a piece of muslim (which is cotton) inbetween the iron and the leather.  You can not leave the iron on the leather long as it might burn.
I did make a mistake in the sewing process and had to remove a seam, it was very easy as long as I was really careful, took the threads out on the top side — about every three stitches then just pulled the bobbin thread.
Know what you want to construct! I did use a guide of a BCBG purse but mine came out much small which is ok for me as I can still fit my iPhone and fold up flip flops in it.
The snap I feel might be too heavy for this leather, the leather is very soft and its has no structure to it at all.  Although I was strongly advised to NOT use a stablizer or interface; the bag needs it.  The leather is very soft and its flimsey.. not really what I want in a clutch but its too late to reconstruct.  I did add seams to the side (its was a suggestion by an instructor) to give it more stablity, that did not really help.
For sure I will create another bag, and another from leather.. but I will do more research and use a stablizer if I am working with this type of leather again.

My first piece of leather.. I learned a lot of lessons with this lol I will definitely create another ☺#picstitch #diy #sew #sewing #sewingwithleather

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Fabric Shopping in the Fashion District

Being dismayed with finding “unique” fabric here in Maryland and DC I planned a day trip to New York to plan my fall sewing projects.  I knew for sure I want fabric for a coat and at least two (wool pencil skirts).  I needed to find bulk pricing on notions (zippers and elastic), and I was seeking some pretty flowers for two garments I already created.  
There were two stores of particular interest – Fabrics for Less and Chic Fashions.  These two stores had the most charming gentlemen to assist and shopping there brought me back to the old days when they negotiated prices to get you to purchase more.  You always left those stores making a friend and a warm feeling to return again! I got some really nice finds and great prices.. (I will post my finds later).. However my only thing was these guys stores are not real organized LOL.  Its difficult to see all the yummy fabrics they have so your eye has a tendency to choose what you see and you miss out on the great other finds they may have.  
My last stop was Mood Fabrics and it was a pure dream! There is a lovely young lady in the front welcoming you to take your bag(s) for security and safety reasons — aka so you don’t place anything “extra” in your bag lol! Anyway the main floor contains all the silks, linings, denim, and fabulous knits.. OH my so many knits and especially Italian knits.. I think these are the most scrumptious knits I have seen so far.. Similar to the kings you find in Saks and Neiman Marcus and they are asking $75 for a tank top! Here I was able to get beautiful pieces 72 width at only $10 and $12 a yard! I can’t wait to get sewing these! 
My best find so far was the Marc Jacobs 100% Wool fabric for the coat! I almost passed out when I saw it and my eyes would not allow me to view any other fabrics! I did find my two pieces for the pencil skirts and I am simply in love with them!  
I will post swatches of my finds later so you can see what you might have in store for yourself if you ever decide to visit the Fabric District.. happy sewing!

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