tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11663953286204131272024-03-14T00:36:52.945-05:00Sewing Miss AdventureSometimes it's an adventure, sometimes a misadventuredfr2010http://www.blogger.com/profile/15865244243226266725noreply@blogger.comBlogger277125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1166395328620413127.post-77582133863942273892019-06-18T13:44:00.003-05:002019-06-18T13:44:52.279-05:00A test version of B6249 skirtUm, yeah ... so after I gathered up a passel of dress patterns the other year, last year I suddenly wanted skirt patterns. One that really caught my eye is Butterick 6249, view D with those nice, big, USEFUL pockets. So, after a bit of dithering, I decided on this cotton print to make up for the test version before I used the red bandana paisley cotton print I made into a <a href="https://sewingmissadventure.blogspot.com/2018/09/simplicity-8243-blouse-finished.html">button-up shirt</a> last year.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7RVu4-9SQ0k/XQkwTwIV8GI/AAAAAAAACG8/LoOyK_UjTwgq0gCry5A2gyuRnuzPEA1WACLcBGAs/s1600/b6249test.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7RVu4-9SQ0k/XQkwTwIV8GI/AAAAAAAACG8/LoOyK_UjTwgq0gCry5A2gyuRnuzPEA1WACLcBGAs/s320/b6249test.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">test version of Butterick 6249 skirt</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I made a few tweaks, mostly to the length to get it a bit more even. Hubby pinned the hem for me, and the front had 3-1/2 inches more than the back due to the pelvic tilt that also makes the swayback adjustment necessary around the waist (I had my friend Lynn help me tissue fit the back yoke to accommodate that).<br />
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I do have the red version done already, and perhaps I'll get photos soon. Actually, I have a BUNCH of things to snap pics of so I can show them off, including new toys as well as new clothes.dfr2010http://www.blogger.com/profile/15865244243226266725noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1166395328620413127.post-76220484501675336892018-11-18T09:36:00.001-06:002018-11-18T09:36:42.779-06:00Recycling feed bagsAnyone who has peeked in at <a href="https://sandghomesteade.blogspot.com/">my homestead blog</a> knows I feed a small menagerie (or petting zoo, depending on how fancy a vocabulary Dad feels like using) and that results in quite a few feed bags - full when I buy them, then empty. We had been using them as trash bags in the feed shed, then over the summer I saw someone at Tractor Supply's market day selling shopping/tote bags made from feed bags. I tried asking her for details, but she just said, "Oh, there's tutorials online." I guess she was just selling them for whoever did the actual sewing since she didn't seem the least bit interested when I tried to ask about needles and thread used.<br />
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So, we've been saving the 50-pound bags when empty, and they do pile up pretty quickly. I don't bother with the very smooth plastic hay cube/pellet bags, and I also don't use the Nutrena brand 40-pound bags, as those have the annoying habit of splitting open if tossed at the store. I easily found a couple different tutorials online (<a href="https://www.fresheggsdaily.com/2012/01/make-your-own-feed-bag-tote.html">I like this one best</a>), and made a test bag. OK, my machine doesn't really like the textured plastic bags. I used an universal needle, size 14, for the test bag, and I don't think my machine appreciated that too much either - it made the thump-thump noise that lets me know it's past time to change needles. Meh. Hubby ordered me some size 14 leather needles (I like Schmetz brand) and I had picked up some light beige heavy duty Coats & Clark thread off clearance ... now it's time to figure out which machine will do the best job at this. I intend to pull the trusty old <a href="https://sewingmissadventure.blogspot.com/2011/07/stitchin-it-old-school.html">mechanical Brother, Timex</a>, out to see how that goes. If not, then the <a href="https://sewingmissadventure.blogspot.com/2011/07/kenmore-14812190-anchor.html">old-as-I-am Kenmore Anchor</a> will get a shot at it.<br />
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First, though ... I need to wash the bags off. I have about a dozen or so in the bathtub right now.dfr2010http://www.blogger.com/profile/15865244243226266725noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1166395328620413127.post-57479400460057237862018-10-31T12:23:00.000-05:002018-10-31T12:23:32.590-05:00Patterns, patterns, and more patternsOK, I guess I got a little caught up in the selection process of the big pattern prize pack win from 3 weeks ago. It happens. I meant to post up links to what I got as I got them. It's the thought that counts, right?<br />
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Oh, and I did not buy a lottery ticket yet. I had the idea that perhaps I should wait on that until I've used at least one pattern from each prize donor, and posted up appropriate links here, because one needs to show proper appreciation and gratitude before asking for more. It makes sense to me, at least.<br />
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Let me work backwards here, and start with the pattern I just ordered this morning. It should ship by tomorrow or Friday, and is a long out of print Kwik Sew bra pattern (#1018) I didn't know even existed until I saw <a href="https://sewing.patternreview.com/review/pattern/151428">a review posted up at Pattern Review</a>. It wasn't the written review that got me all excited, it was the pictures, including one of her wearing it. Well, especially the picture of her wearing it - that made me say, "She's built like me! And that fits her GOOD." When I told my friend Lynn about the pattern, she said she wants to see it as soon as I get it in the mail. Oh, I found one listed on Etsy for just under $15, listed as uncut with envelope still sealed. Cool beans!<br />
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Picking up where I left off on the prize pack, I chose the <a href="https://www.laelajeynepatterns.com/product/womens-willow-pleated-trousers-pdf-pattern/">Willow pleated trousers from Laela Jeyne</a>. Yes, they look very similar to the McCall's pleated paper-bag waist pants pattern I have ... in fact, my intent here is to compare the two.<br />
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Choosing just one pattern from 5 out of 4 Patterns wasn't as easy, but I decided I could probably get some good mileage out of <a href="https://5outof4.com/product/womens-nancy-raglan/">the Nancy raglan</a> (and yes, I snickered a bit at the pun in the name). I have been wanting a variety of raglan knit top patterns, and until this year there had been slim pickin's there. I figured I ought to get while the gettin's good.<br />
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I had enough on the gift "card" from Bella Sunshine Designs to get three patterns, so I now have <a href="https://bellasunshinedesigns.com/product/reagan-raglan-ladies/">the Reagan raglan</a> (continuing the pun from 5 out of 4!), the <a href="https://bellasunshinedesigns.com/product/amelia-maxi-dress-top-ladies/">Amelia top, dress, and maxi</a>, and the <a href="https://bellasunshinedesigns.com/product/maggie-top-tunic-dress-ladies/">Maggie top, tunic and dress</a>.<br />
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Choosing at Wardrobe by Me wasn't easy, and I paid close attention to the sizing as the designer(s) is in Denmark. After quite a bit of dithering, I decided on the <a href="https://wardrobebyme.com/collections/dress-pdf-sewing-pattern/products/aurora-tunic-dress">Aurora dress and tunic</a> pattern.<br />
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I still have a $10 store credit to use at Striped Swallow Designs, but I used the code for the free pattern to get <a href="https://www.stripedswallowdesigns.com/collections/women/products/winter-park-pdf-pattern-women-xs-xxxl">the Winter Park top</a>. I am still quite undecided on what else to get, as there is more than one that has caught my eye.<br />
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Finally, from the hostess of the giveaway, I've picked two of the four free patterns from Itch to Stitch: the <a href="https://itch-to-stitch.com/product/brasov-wrap-top-digital-sewing-pattern-pdf/">Brasov wrap top</a> and the <a href="https://itch-to-stitch.com/product/chai-shirt-dress-digital-sewing-pattern-pdf/">Chai shirt and dress.</a>dfr2010http://www.blogger.com/profile/15865244243226266725noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1166395328620413127.post-63375755646761235872018-10-11T13:19:00.000-05:002018-10-11T13:19:35.512-05:00oh WOW I won!So, I often enter giveaways and whatnot, even the occasional lottery ticket, but winning anything is a rare event. Imagine my surprise to get an email today from Kennis at Itch To Stitch saying I won one of the two prize packs from <a href="https://itch-to-stitch.com/itch-to-stitch-is-4-years-old/">her birthday giveaway</a>! When replying to her email, I remarked that hubby said I should get a lotto ticket since this doesn't happen too often. When Kennis sent back my codes, she remarked hubby may be right and she thinks I ought to buy a ticket as well! LOL Sounds like she has a sense of humor.<br />
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<div class="p1" style="-webkit-hyphenate-character: "‐"; background-color: #fcfcfc; border: 0px; color: #403c3d; font-family: 'Open Sans', sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.652px; margin-bottom: 1.618em; orphans: 3; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; widows: 3;">
<b style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Itch to Stitch Birthday Celebration Prize Pack 1</b></div>
<ul class="ul1" style="background-color: #fcfcfc; border: 0px; color: #403c3d; font-family: 'Open Sans', sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.652px; margin: 0px 0px 1.618em; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<li class="li2" style="border: 0px; line-height: 2em; list-style-image: url("/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Purple-Bullet-Point.png"); margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">4 patterns from Itch to Stitch</li>
<li class="li2" style="border: 0px; line-height: 2em; list-style-image: url("/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Purple-Bullet-Point.png"); margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">1 pattern from The Wolf and the Tree</li>
<li class="li2" style="border: 0px; line-height: 2em; list-style-image: url("/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Purple-Bullet-Point.png"); margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">1 pattern from Laela Jeyne Patterns</li>
<li class="li2" style="border: 0px; line-height: 2em; list-style-image: url("/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Purple-Bullet-Point.png"); margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">1 pattern from Stitch Upon a Time</li>
<li class="li2" style="border: 0px; line-height: 2em; list-style-image: url("/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Purple-Bullet-Point.png"); margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">1 pattern from Wardrobe by Me</li>
<li class="li2" style="border: 0px; line-height: 2em; list-style-image: url("/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Purple-Bullet-Point.png"); margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">1 pattern from 5 out of 4 Patterns</li>
<li class="li2" style="border: 0px; line-height: 2em; list-style-image: url("/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Purple-Bullet-Point.png"); margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">$25 gift card from Bella Sunshine Designs</li>
<li class="li2" style="border: 0px; line-height: 2em; list-style-image: url("/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Purple-Bullet-Point.png"); margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">1 PDF pattern & $10 shop credit from Striped Swallow Designs</li>
<li class="li2" style="border: 0px; line-height: 2em; list-style-image: url("/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Purple-Bullet-Point.png"); margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">$10 store credit from Candy Castle Patterns</li>
<li class="li2" style="border: 0px; line-height: 2em; list-style-image: url("/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Purple-Bullet-Point.png"); margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">1 PDF pattern of choice (except bundles) from Susana Coelho de Melo Cunha</li>
<li class="li2" style="border: 0px; line-height: 2em; list-style-image: url("/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Purple-Bullet-Point.png"); margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">$15 credit from Flosstyle</li>
</ul>
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<span style="color: #403c3d; font-family: Open Sans, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 28px;">Candy Castle Patterns and Stitch Upon A Time are time-sensitive, so I surfed over to their sites first. I finally decided on the very practical <a href="https://candycastlepatterns.com/patterns/ladies/sweet%20cinnamon%20latte%20sweater.html">mens' and womens' sweater pattern</a> from Candy Castle. Looking through Stitch Upon A Time, I saw the exact thing I was thinking about this morning during milking: <a href="https://stitchuponatime.com/product/womens-boxerwear-boxer-brief-pattern-xxs-xxxl/">women's boxer briefs</a>. Well, that made my decision quite easy!</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #403c3d; font-family: Open Sans, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 28px;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #403c3d; font-family: Open Sans, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 28px;">That's as far as I've gotten so far. This is actually a little overwhelming, such a big pattern splurge.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #403c3d; font-family: Open Sans, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 28px;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #403c3d; font-family: Open Sans, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 28px;">Oh, and before Mom calls me out, a big public THANK YOU to Kennis and her friends for putting together such a big prize pack. I suppose I ought to thank the software program for picking me as well ... LOL. Nah, we don't thank computers. Still, what a novelty to win so much.</span></span></div>
dfr2010http://www.blogger.com/profile/15865244243226266725noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1166395328620413127.post-2183446824596293642018-10-09T15:24:00.001-05:002018-10-09T15:24:46.554-05:00Butterick 5682 jeans patternI have been asked over on PatternReview for pics and a full review on the Butterick 5682 jeans that I made over a year ago. That was the straight leg view, and I decided I need to retrace the pieces onto the Pellon EasyPattern stuff, as that is a lot more sturdy than the red-dot stuff I initially used. Instead, I traced the flare leg view to play around with. I bought some fabric paint markers at WalMart the other week, with intentions of covering up the tea or pop spill stain on my linen tunic, but there ought to be plenty to paint the flares in the lighter denim.<br />
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A quick teaser picture: the pocket pieces on the Butterick are the standard-issue useless mostly-decorative model, so - inspired by the PR jeans class by Jennifer Stern - I drew some nice roomy big FUNCTIONAL front pockets for my jeans, complete with pocket stays that get sew into the fly. Now *these* are some kick(*donkey*) pockets.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JofVe9qPaq0/W70OEgmYqvI/AAAAAAAACFc/ydd-ysjE65A5stquLga8-N4joYdZHVCUgCLcBGAs/s1600/b5682pockets.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="941" data-original-width="1500" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JofVe9qPaq0/W70OEgmYqvI/AAAAAAAACFc/ydd-ysjE65A5stquLga8-N4joYdZHVCUgCLcBGAs/s320/b5682pockets.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">my big roomy FUNCTIONAL front jeans pockets</td></tr>
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I think I'll blog about these jeans I'm about to make, since it seems quite a few sewists think jeans are intimidating.dfr2010http://www.blogger.com/profile/15865244243226266725noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1166395328620413127.post-84861267759573888782018-09-27T12:24:00.001-05:002018-10-20T14:35:41.107-05:00Fitting notes for Simplicity 8243 blouseIt's been a busy week, and tomorrow is also busy, but I want to get these notes posted before I forget them. On the Simplicity 8243 blouse, when I googled for reviews (there were none on Pattern Review) I found just two: one from <a href="http://curvysewingcollective.com/pattern-review-simplicity-8243-blouse/">Tanya at CurvySewingCollective</a> and one from a blogger who calls herself <a href="https://seamracer.wordpress.com/tag/simplicity-8243/">Seam Racer</a>. I am honestly surprised this pattern is not more popular. It's been out for a while, and I bought it up in Chicago when Mom and I hit JoAnns the day before son's wedding. I think it ought to be more popular ... but then again, I tend to be very much out-of-step with most folks.<br />
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So, these fitting notes are for the blouse only:<br />
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<ul>
<li>Collar: I love the cut-on collar. Once I wrapped my mind around it and grokked the fullness, it seemed absolutely brilliant and I wondered why this technique isn't in common use for camp shirts, casual button-fronts, and of course Hawaiian shirts. I think I'll do the facing in a solid white next time I do up a for-reals shirt. Which brings me to:</li>
<li>Shoulder pads: Apparently they aren't a "thing" right now, because I had to scour Goodwill's racks to find something to swipe the shoulder pads from. For some reason I thought I read they were big in the NY Fashion Week? Maybe that's the forecast one for spring ...? The only reason I pay *ANY* attention to that is because it affects my ability to get certain items. You know, like fancy or unusual sleeves ...</li>
<li>Pleated sleeves! These are cute enough on their own, but the pleats really shine with shoulder pads.</li>
<li>Back to the shoulder pads: I posted a thread on PR about how to back out the shoulder pad allowance, and Gloria came through like a real champ, even emailing a snapshot of one of her sewing books. I am going to give it the ol' Girl Scout try here, probably in that silly cherries cotton broadcloth I got in a FabricMart bundle and have been using for pockets on jeans when I run out of green shamrock fabric. (pic to follow)</li>
<li>Length: The blouse is supposed to be tucked in, and tucked into high-waisted pants, but I like it untucked and so I'll lengthen it a bit to avoid my fishbelly-white belly playing peek-a-boo. Wouldn't want to blind anyone.</li>
<li>Sleeve width: these are VERY close-fitting sleeves. While it doesn't impede my movement, they are a little too close for my comfort, so I am going to try widening them a bit in the cherries broadcloth experimental version.</li>
<li>FBA: I did an inch-and-half FBA on this, so it does button without gaping, but looking at the pictures makes me think I need just a smidge more to eliminate the drag lines I see.</li>
<li>Swayback adjustment: I didn't do anything to the back piece, and I am thinking of widening it a bit to add two fisheye waist darts to give it proper shaping in back.</li>
</ul>
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This probably looks like a whole lotta things to do to the pattern, but I feel it's certainly worth it. This is a classy blouse, and I intend to keep playing around with it. Now, if I could just find which box has my rayon satin, then I'll make a seriously fancy blouse!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TUtYCyHJC1I/W60R3XcEAGI/AAAAAAAACFA/6JwI6_c7S6EqKH2rzTN3dbbfHlJ34kS9ACLcBGAs/s1600/shldrpads.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="810" data-original-width="1080" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TUtYCyHJC1I/W60R3XcEAGI/AAAAAAAACFA/6JwI6_c7S6EqKH2rzTN3dbbfHlJ34kS9ACLcBGAs/s320/shldrpads.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">from Power Sewing by <strike>Nancy Zieman</strike> Sandra Betzina, 1993 edition<br />
snapshot by Gloria</td></tr>
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dfr2010http://www.blogger.com/profile/15865244243226266725noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1166395328620413127.post-87944135240318235572018-09-21T06:57:00.000-05:002018-09-21T06:57:26.252-05:00Simplicity 8243 blouse finishedI'll do a bunch more notes in a few days, but I wore it in to town yesterday and got pics when we got home, so I wanted to post them up here.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xkMmTb4a_3A/W6TbUxeO-sI/AAAAAAAACEc/y6JkQqD_lUM7emox8Vbft6SI3FF0zVhYwCLcBGAs/s1600/s8243blouse1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1302" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xkMmTb4a_3A/W6TbUxeO-sI/AAAAAAAACEc/y6JkQqD_lUM7emox8Vbft6SI3FF0zVhYwCLcBGAs/s320/s8243blouse1.jpg" width="277" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Simplicity 8243 blouse, with arm down</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UAbjrf-Gqps/W6TbVd0_lRI/AAAAAAAACEk/I6juZillcJwtojTo_qbXMYghMiuqkzFVwCLcBGAs/s1600/s8243blouse2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1417" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UAbjrf-Gqps/W6TbVd0_lRI/AAAAAAAACEk/I6juZillcJwtojTo_qbXMYghMiuqkzFVwCLcBGAs/s320/s8243blouse2.jpg" width="302" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Simplicity 8243 blouse, with arm up showing <br />the crease up near the shoulder pad</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-l5f7FS9t6Lk/W6TbWz8qsmI/AAAAAAAACEo/V2Hh9ySUSYEHHu5lM1CLYxFWxWZRo4WeQCLcBGAs/s1600/s8243blouse3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1438" data-original-width="1500" height="306" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-l5f7FS9t6Lk/W6TbWz8qsmI/AAAAAAAACEo/V2Hh9ySUSYEHHu5lM1CLYxFWxWZRo4WeQCLcBGAs/s320/s8243blouse3.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Simplicity 8243 blouse, back view - no back shaping</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4i-PbcducWk/W6TbU_CbPyI/AAAAAAAACEg/s-nbCr-Y6UUkVbvRlt6MFGE_gEx6GckJQCLcBGAs/s1600/s8243blouse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1392" data-original-width="1500" height="296" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4i-PbcducWk/W6TbU_CbPyI/AAAAAAAACEg/s-nbCr-Y6UUkVbvRlt6MFGE_gEx6GckJQCLcBGAs/s320/s8243blouse.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">of course the front view picture is fuzzy - we just cannot have a photo session <br />without an out-of-focus pic (or three)</td></tr>
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This top came out WAY fancier than I had envisioned. I was going for "cute and casual," but as you can see, it stepped over that standard. I had quite the time finding shoulder pads locally - finally decided to scour Goodwill's racks, and sure enough I found a red dress (probably poly) with red shoulder pads and a red long back zipper and even a cute bit of red lace across the front. Trust me, the blouse doesn't look right without the shoulder pads ... unless you adjust them out. That's another post.dfr2010http://www.blogger.com/profile/15865244243226266725noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1166395328620413127.post-2742176034545312932018-08-23T15:52:00.000-05:002018-08-23T15:52:34.920-05:00Dreams and schemes for a mini wardrobeWearing <a href="http://sewingmissadventure.blogspot.com/2018/08/some-fitting-notes-on-butterick-5682.html">my linen work jeans</a> around the property for chores has made me want MORE! More linen work clothes! And then, right before a stronger-than-normal summer storm hit the other evening, inspiration hit me first.<br />
<br />
For over a year now, <a href="http://sewingmissadventure.blogspot.com/2017/08/my-precious-fabric-has-arrived.html">my precious linen/cotton denim chambray</a> has hovered near the top of the fabric piles, and sitting close to it in my imagination is of course Simplicity 8447, the Rosie the Riveter overalls, along with two blouses and the pants without the overall bib. I now intend to make the pants in a heavy linen from Fabrics-Store (in the patriot blue color), get those fit well, then the overalls, the regular blouse in a medium blue handkerchief linen I think I got from Fabric Mart more than a few years ago.<br />
<br />
While I was pulling out the overalls pattern, I grabbed up Simplicity 8243, a 1940s sportswear pattern with a short sleeve blouse that caught my eye when Mom and I were doing some shopping the day after son's wedding up in Chicago. I have some red bandana paisley cotton from WalMart I think would be cute.<br />
<br />
Today, the rules for the PatternReview.com mini wardrobe contest were posted, and it is work themed ... but you need 5 garments to create 6 looks. Oh, and all five must be cut and sewn between 1 September and 30 September. I hit on an idea for a fifth garment this afternoon, if it's ruled as a garment: Simplicity 4282, view C vest style apron, and I'll tweak the pockets to make it an egg-gathering apron. The pockets are more to the side, so I'll be able to scrinch down to get the egg laid in the smallest part of the corner of a tractor, because you know there's always one hen who must make it an obstacle course for you.<br />
<br />
So, that's my inspiration and plans. Now the big question is: how long will it take me to sew all these up? Only one way to find out.dfr2010http://www.blogger.com/profile/15865244243226266725noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1166395328620413127.post-22878307719370434212018-08-16T10:27:00.001-05:002018-08-16T10:27:43.720-05:00Some fitting notes on Butterick 5682 jeans patternYeah, yeah ... I've been quiet almost a full year here. I have been sewing, though not as fast as I would like. Yesterday I finally (FINALLY!) finished my linen work jeans using the Butterick 5682 pattern and some jacquard weave linen from Fabrics-Store that I cut out over a year ago. It's the dog days of summer down here in humid inland Florida, which means my last two working brain cells are trying to come up with ways to either sweat less, or catch every possible air movement while outside working. Hence, linen work pants. A few fitting notes as I further refine this pattern to my body:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>I want to try raising the crotch curve. While I am going for relaxed fit, there is a point it gets too relaxed and just feels baggy. I'm going to start out by raising half an inch.</li>
<li>I need to compare the size 22 with the size 20, as I needed to take in two small tucks in back to keep them from sliding down. I also do this with the denim pair now.</li>
<li>I shaved off about 3/8 inch from the hips from the denim version to this one, and it feels just about right in the very flexible linen.</li>
<li>My front panels are still rotating towards the center, so time to shift the seams from inside to outside and vice versa along the thighs.</li>
<li>Lengthen the zipper in front, and take a bit more out below that. While I'm at it ... don't sew the zip in quite so high. I'm lucky I didn't hit the metal zipper teeth while sewing on the waistband.</li>
</ul>
Overall, I am quite pleased with these work pants. They may not be much to look at, especially since my idea of a dye job was to wash this piece of linen with three new pieces of denim and just let it do its variation thing as it pleased, but they certainly are comfortable now that I've taken in the back waist a bit. I guess my yoga stretches are having a bit of an effect.dfr2010http://www.blogger.com/profile/15865244243226266725noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1166395328620413127.post-20605009923336348932017-08-22T16:13:00.003-05:002017-08-22T16:13:46.825-05:00My precious fabric has arrivedI picked it up at the post office today, and had to wait until I got home to get it open. Fabric Mart is thankfully dumped FedEx's SmartPost in favor of the USPS Priority mail, which means I get my order 1-3 days sooner. It does look as photographed, although it is a lighter weight than I like to use for jeans ... so now for a Plan B. I have this pattern:<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1OpM9u4WZFg/WZydqvqCQUI/AAAAAAAACBU/CBDLapZNSvExZTiNaj47pI7KQ5zYeYodQCLcBGAs/s1600/simplicity-vintage-1940s-overalls-pattern-8447-AV1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="502" data-original-width="502" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1OpM9u4WZFg/WZydqvqCQUI/AAAAAAAACBU/CBDLapZNSvExZTiNaj47pI7KQ5zYeYodQCLcBGAs/s320/simplicity-vintage-1940s-overalls-pattern-8447-AV1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gHUBr-cXXKw/WZydqpo8e2I/AAAAAAAACBY/-sj0ssWuWkMirJWuCkvJmdqcq5zrOiPyACLcBGAs/s1600/simplicity-vintage-1940s-overalls-pattern-8447-envelope-front.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="502" data-original-width="502" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gHUBr-cXXKw/WZydqpo8e2I/AAAAAAAACBY/-sj0ssWuWkMirJWuCkvJmdqcq5zrOiPyACLcBGAs/s320/simplicity-vintage-1940s-overalls-pattern-8447-envelope-front.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Simplicity 8447<br />"Rosie the Riveter" pattern</td></tr>
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Yup, I intend to dress up as Rosie the Riveter come autumn, when it is rumored first the overnight lows may actually get lower than 70F, and then the daytime highs may actually go below 85F! A nice linen and cotton blend in this weight ought to work no matter what the weather does when Hallowe'en comes around. It could be some fun.dfr2010http://www.blogger.com/profile/15865244243226266725noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1166395328620413127.post-12257520897387493492017-08-18T09:10:00.001-05:002017-08-18T09:10:06.599-05:00Finally found my PreciousI have been saying for years I want to find and use linen denim, and have a nice collection of linen twill (mostly suiting) fabrics in ye olde fabric stash ... but I have finally found actual linen (blended with cotton) denim! And in all places, Fabric Mart. The down side of this is, they may not get any more in for a decade or so. The good news is, it's at a Fabric Mart price. They're what's called a jobber, in that they buy leftover fabrics from manufacturers and other retailers and sell them quite low. This is under the Sales section, in their "Precut Buyout"subsection, so when they sell out they are truly out. For the record, since they are selling it in 2.5 yard pieces, and I need 2.75 yards to make a pair of jeans, I bought two pieces. I got the shipping email yesterday.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-P5EPzb5_BtM/WZbzJR8CHFI/AAAAAAAACAY/U0Z4gh_nuPIx_Vz8bK_VRfeIECm6RM5oACLcBGAs/s1600/linenblenddenim1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="444" data-original-width="339" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-P5EPzb5_BtM/WZbzJR8CHFI/AAAAAAAACAY/U0Z4gh_nuPIx_Vz8bK_VRfeIECm6RM5oACLcBGAs/s320/linenblenddenim1.jpg" width="244" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">linen/cotton denim<br />photo used with permission</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CURKkf5cdMM/WZbzJXbuBNI/AAAAAAAACAU/wduWc8No2kAp1JrnH13hN4lUhdwuFSrfgCLcBGAs/s1600/linenblenddenim.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="444" data-original-width="334" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CURKkf5cdMM/WZbzJXbuBNI/AAAAAAAACAU/wduWc8No2kAp1JrnH13hN4lUhdwuFSrfgCLcBGAs/s320/linenblenddenim.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">linen/cotton denim<br />photo used with permission</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I emailed Fabric Mart yesterday asking permission to use their photos of this fabric because they are SO much better at photography than I'll probably ever be, and this morning Julie emailed me permission to use, with a note that I should stress this is a buyout fabric and when it's gone then it is totally gone. I promised a link to the page, if anyone wants to get their own <a href="http://www.fabricmartfabrics.com/PRE-CUT-2.5-YARDS-Slate-Blue-Cotton-Linen-Rustica-Chambray-Denim-Twill-59W.html">2.5 yard piece of linen/cotton denim</a> (if you don't see that fabric anymore, then they are sold out).<br />
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I am really stoked about finally finding this. Even if it's a lighter weight than I like to use for jeans, it will still make summer go-to-town jeans. FabricMart lists it as "Light/Medium; Falls Moderately Away From Body" so I am not expecting 12 oz weight denim here (although that would certainly be nice), but they do recommend using this fabric for pants, jackets and waistcoats (vests) so I am expecting bottomweight at the least.dfr2010http://www.blogger.com/profile/15865244243226266725noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1166395328620413127.post-18553075571316839622017-08-10T14:24:00.001-05:002017-08-10T14:24:09.409-05:00Notes for Simplicity 4149 tunicI just finished up the test version of Simplicity 4149 tunic, view A with the neckband but without the sleeve flounce. A few pattern notes from wearing:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>size 22 is too big in the shoulders for me</li>
<li>do a small FBA, about 1/2 inch, and use a second dart for better shaping</li>
<li>the armsceye is too long and low, needs to be brought up at least a half-inch</li>
<li>still have a small puddle of fabric in the swayback section of the back</li>
<li>need a little more room for my butt in back</li>
<li>raise the slit in the neck by an inch</li>
<li>shorten the sleeve cap by at least a half-inch, lots of ease to gather in</li>
<li>flat-fell the straight seams instead of French seams</li>
<li>shorten sleeves another inch</li>
</ul>
I'm doing this up for the Tunic Contest at Pattern Review, so I'll need good notes to write the review. No pics yet, as hubby went up to Jax to hang out with a friend for friend's birthday today.dfr2010http://www.blogger.com/profile/15865244243226266725noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1166395328620413127.post-34060509074246255432017-07-02T15:39:00.000-05:002017-07-02T15:39:03.125-05:00Huh?Just how is the year already half over?!? Seriously, I think someone hit "fast forward" in early April, for hubby as well as me. This year is just flying by, and apparently I ain't the only one feeling that.<br />
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I have been sewing, but I have also been tossing out old clothing that the fabric is disintegrating at about an equal pace. So far, it's been a matter of jeans, T-shirts, and underpants, but yesterday my order of 5 back issues of My Image pattern magazine (out of the Netherlands) showed up in the box, and I have been paging through it and scheming since late afternoon yesterday. LOTS of inspiration contained in that one envelope mailer!<br />
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Okay, so the quickie-update is this:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>I have a better jeans pattern, and it is close to being just right on the fit.</li>
<li>I have a basic T-shirt pattern that I added princess seams to the front and a center-back seam ... and on the first version I discovered I forgot to add in the seam allowances. That one is a bit snug around the belly, but I redrew the body pieces and the second shirt is almost finished.</li>
<li>I've tweaked the old Kwik Sew master pantie pattern (high cut version) and have a decent sporty underpants pattern. The 1980s original was a bit too high waisted even for me.</li>
</ul>
All very basic items, but I intend to learn a bit about fancy sleeves to keep the T-shirts interesting. I do have some pics, but my digicam is probably underneath a stack of fabric right now.dfr2010http://www.blogger.com/profile/15865244243226266725noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1166395328620413127.post-61202257214729386242016-10-30T09:22:00.001-05:002016-10-30T09:22:18.778-05:00McCalls 5142 denim work jeansAs promised last post, I have my new work jeans done (in fact, they're due for a wash after today) and now have pics as of this morning. Keep in mind, I've worn these to town a couple days this week, and wore them last night for evening chores/milking. I am VERY pleased with the fit and freedom of movement.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XkZ8oIBeGtg/WBX_JiofE0I/AAAAAAAAB7A/4bjaF76ubPomwaya_Jn-Y9YQmeNoE7rtQCLcB/s1600/m5142work1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XkZ8oIBeGtg/WBX_JiofE0I/AAAAAAAAB7A/4bjaF76ubPomwaya_Jn-Y9YQmeNoE7rtQCLcB/s320/m5142work1.jpg" width="237" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">front view McCall's 5142 work jeans<br />in medium blue denim</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DNPUmlp6lH8/WBX_KvVzccI/AAAAAAAAB7E/rjGsL-EtCqEOEh0h8AlykHEBbQR5i-OEgCLcB/s1600/m5142work2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DNPUmlp6lH8/WBX_KvVzccI/AAAAAAAAB7E/rjGsL-EtCqEOEh0h8AlykHEBbQR5i-OEgCLcB/s320/m5142work2.jpg" width="245" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">back view M5142 jeans<br />with "heartbeat" wave on back pockets</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qN5gwDMrw10/WBX_KyII8CI/AAAAAAAAB7I/pK_vC2UsCV4Z8wGGvdfaMbWLM-jHVmQfwCLcB/s1600/m5142work3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qN5gwDMrw10/WBX_KyII8CI/AAAAAAAAB7I/pK_vC2UsCV4Z8wGGvdfaMbWLM-jHVmQfwCLcB/s320/m5142work3.jpg" width="190" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">side view of McCalls 5142<br />work jeans</td></tr>
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These are just perfect through the hips, as I can squat down and reach for eggs the hens decide to lay in the far back corner of the tractors without the slightest tightness or binding. I put belt loops on this pair, even though they don't need them right now as they sit comfortably at my waist without sliding down.<br />
<br />
While hubby notices the lack of excess fabric at the bottom of the zipper, the thing Cindy at Tractor Supply was so enthusiastic about is the lack of gap in back. I showed them off to her earlier this week, and she tugged at the center back belt loop while exclaiming, "No gap! Wow, what brand are these?" While she looked suitably impressed when I told her they are "my brand," she looked and sounded a bit disappointed she can't go buy a pair for herself. Kem, the assistant manager, remarked they look store-bought (except they fit better).<br />
<br />
Since I have the fit I want, the next step is to knock out about 3 or 4 more pair - I am already working on another pair in light blue denim, with hot pink topstitching and floral appliques for my going-to-town jeans. I have white cotton twill with animal print on it for another pair of going-to-town pants, and I have a couple wild plans for embellishment. I figured since I would making several pair of this pattern, why not enter in the Pattern Review "One Pattern, Many Looks" contest, which is running mid-October to November 15th. If I have time before the deadline, I just got some nice light tan cotton twill in good bottomweight thickness for another pair of work pants, which would make for two pair of work pants and two going-to-town pants, which ought to hold me through winter.<br />
<br />
After I finish up the pantspalooza, then it's on to knit tops and T-shirts for me, as I had to throw out three old T-shirts that are officially disintegrating - including one of my old PT shirts that is at least 15 years old and I could read through it. I have patterns, and I now have jersey knits. Fabric leftovers will be turned into panties, which are also on the must-sew-soon list.dfr2010http://www.blogger.com/profile/15865244243226266725noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1166395328620413127.post-55562091514351205652016-10-27T09:01:00.002-05:002016-10-27T09:01:35.479-05:00Simplicity 1605 raglan T shirt for hubbyI forgot to post this one up last week, but this is about as close to instant gratification in sewing as you can get: a basic raglan T shirt for the man. Seriously, four pattern pieces and five seams plus hems and boom it's done. I'll need to tweak the fit a little before hubby calls it perfect, but nothing drastic. On a good day, I could probably have one cut out and sewn up in one day.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QE7fwd2fS2M/WBIIdAczo-I/AAAAAAAAB6s/ZbxpKXVRDe8Alc2VpllI0u7YUIowMvtaQCLcB/s1600/s1605.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QE7fwd2fS2M/WBIIdAczo-I/AAAAAAAAB6s/ZbxpKXVRDe8Alc2VpllI0u7YUIowMvtaQCLcB/s320/s1605.jpg" width="286" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Simplicity 1605 men's raglan T shirt</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rAFUTtYs6GU/WBIIdEl9qiI/AAAAAAAAB6w/dty6IvplaAo7z134Iq_a4SobA2Uo8kwSwCLcB/s1600/s1605a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rAFUTtYs6GU/WBIIdEl9qiI/AAAAAAAAB6w/dty6IvplaAo7z134Iq_a4SobA2Uo8kwSwCLcB/s320/s1605a.jpg" width="303" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">basic raglan T shirt for hubby</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Once I get pics, there will be a big update on the McCall's 5142 jeans project.dfr2010http://www.blogger.com/profile/15865244243226266725noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1166395328620413127.post-25374633797919471692016-10-11T12:00:00.001-05:002016-10-11T12:00:44.747-05:00McCalls 5142 jeans in denimI did these with a 2 yard remnant of medium weight denim, so I had to fold six inches off the bottoms as it really does take 2-1/4 yard to 2-1/2 yards to do up full length jeans. They still feel a bit loose even after taking 3/8 inch off the inseams both front and back, so I will probably take 3/8 inch off the outer seams in the front pieces only to start out, as that is where it feels the baggiest. I feel like I am getting closer, though!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-80n3mX1i5LE/V_0Zq0kxdvI/AAAAAAAAB5s/ZI8nyHqoSnUCzXP4rkeXLMdXP5PpqNxCgCLcB/s1600/m5142denim1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-80n3mX1i5LE/V_0Zq0kxdvI/AAAAAAAAB5s/ZI8nyHqoSnUCzXP4rkeXLMdXP5PpqNxCgCLcB/s320/m5142denim1.jpg" width="267" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">McCalls 5142 jeans front</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NCX1p1AFwGE/V_0ZrDFTBhI/AAAAAAAAB5w/NcF-YC8uPrQBLv5dEmeVwmMQVQ5LgFLZgCLcB/s1600/m5142denim1a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NCX1p1AFwGE/V_0ZrDFTBhI/AAAAAAAAB5w/NcF-YC8uPrQBLv5dEmeVwmMQVQ5LgFLZgCLcB/s320/m5142denim1a.jpg" width="260" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">McCalls 5142 jeans, capri-length in denim</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iAe-w6yQ6yc/V_0ZrOOnX5I/AAAAAAAAB50/sDjE94F2e5cUJWy11MCIt7F7XPvJ29lnQCLcB/s1600/m5142denim2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iAe-w6yQ6yc/V_0ZrOOnX5I/AAAAAAAAB50/sDjE94F2e5cUJWy11MCIt7F7XPvJ29lnQCLcB/s320/m5142denim2.jpg" width="211" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">side view, McCalls 5142 jeans</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QCbFJzemvvo/V_0Zse8xiNI/AAAAAAAAB54/VviHPQOuka86OQ4L4h2zqVoZOJjsDUfYgCLcB/s1600/m5142denim3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QCbFJzemvvo/V_0Zse8xiNI/AAAAAAAAB54/VviHPQOuka86OQ4L4h2zqVoZOJjsDUfYgCLcB/s320/m5142denim3.jpg" width="288" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">McCalls 5142 jeans, back view</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
All righty, folks - I want your comments, suggestions, constructive criticisms, and overall impression of this version. I forgot to squat way down to show how these are the right size in my full hip area ... also they have enough room I don't feel any pulling right above the knees like usual - but these are a lot looser than what I am used to wearing. So, let me know what y'all think.dfr2010http://www.blogger.com/profile/15865244243226266725noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1166395328620413127.post-79472707882506972992016-10-01T10:01:00.000-05:002016-10-01T10:01:03.249-05:00Cashmerette 2101 Harrison shirtOK, so I finished this shirt up last night, but it was still way too muggy and humid and warm to wear it for pictures. So, I finally stop sweating like a horse after morning chores (meanwhile, I took in just the inseam on my red jeans mockup #3, and BOOM it feels so much more right) and changed into the outfit, posed for hubby to take pics ... and hubby is 110% right about the colors being wrong for me. Ouch. I tried tweaking the colors in GIMP (free knock off of Photoshop) and there is just no fixing the color issue.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bljqjAJZd2s/V-_MPi1n58I/AAAAAAAAB5Y/emsKnQaqXfkJwzUeVyyculPk7OaW7Z3sQCLcB/s1600/c2101a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="315" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bljqjAJZd2s/V-_MPi1n58I/AAAAAAAAB5Y/emsKnQaqXfkJwzUeVyyculPk7OaW7Z3sQCLcB/s320/c2101a.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cashmerette's Harrison shirt</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AZW7N8TVMmA/V-_MQakKb8I/AAAAAAAAB5c/GJlrvLq9IcoSffI6vY0j6UOzVUACA0HpACLcB/s1600/c2101b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AZW7N8TVMmA/V-_MQakKb8I/AAAAAAAAB5c/GJlrvLq9IcoSffI6vY0j6UOzVUACA0HpACLcB/s320/c2101b.jpg" width="304" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">back view of Cashmerette Harrison shirt</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Either I am having a "fat day" today, or I messed up on the seam allowances (1/2 inch instead of the 5/8 inch the Big 4 use), or the sizing runs a smidge small. Or maybe a combination of the three - I'll find out when I make it again, because I WILL make it again. The measurement chart said I need a 16 E/F. Honestly, it does feel a bit snug in the shoulders - I blame all those push-ups I had to do as a mouthy private in the army. LOL<br />
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I had fun playing with the variations I did on the sleeves and collar, and I really wish it turned out better. Can't blame the pattern for the fabric coloring. The shirt looks great on the hanger - just not next to my face. And it really does look like I should try the size 18. I really do love the pattern, and I really love not needing to put a big honkin' FBA on it (and hope it turns out smoothly) right out of the envelope.<br />
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I'll let those thoughts simmer on a back burner while I get back to the jeans fitting. I looked at the periwinkle blue cotton twill this morning, and it's too lightweight ... but I do have a third piece of denim. It's only two yards, so I think I'll fold up six inches off the bottom for some capri length jeans. I have hand knitted socks to show off anyways!dfr2010http://www.blogger.com/profile/15865244243226266725noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1166395328620413127.post-3217267094018184922016-09-30T18:47:00.000-05:002016-09-30T18:47:08.568-05:00A thought on McCalls jeans 5142 mockup #3I just had a thought ... no need to duck and run for cover. Thinking on Gloria's advice on taking the inseam in by 1/4 inch at a time, I remembered the seam allowance for both the inseam and the side seam is one full inch, to allow for letting out if need be. I sewed both seams at 5/8 inch. Right there is 3/4 inch on each inseam and each side seam that can come out!<br />
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I need to do up a fourth mockup to test this ... I have a nice periwinkle blue cotton twill for it. This should be a fun pair.<br />
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Oh, as promised, some pics of mockup #2:<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HXAZt9IhYsE/V-74cg8fS-I/AAAAAAAAB5A/yG-Yofykg0EFOYrsq_dPtV2JOJTBkxZBACLcB/s1600/m5142mockup2a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HXAZt9IhYsE/V-74cg8fS-I/AAAAAAAAB5A/yG-Yofykg0EFOYrsq_dPtV2JOJTBkxZBACLcB/s320/m5142mockup2a.jpg" width="306" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">front view, mockup #2 of<br />McCall's 5142 jeans (size 20)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5mCjunr2G8w/V-74dW7iMNI/AAAAAAAAB5E/hGrIFL12NpopxiN5JfExdfh_378hv6-AACLcB/s1600/m5142mockup2b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="314" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5mCjunr2G8w/V-74dW7iMNI/AAAAAAAAB5E/hGrIFL12NpopxiN5JfExdfh_378hv6-AACLcB/s320/m5142mockup2b.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">side view of M5142 mockup #2<br />You can see the pulling at the full hip</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2J2GuHLJcyU/V-74d4Wr1GI/AAAAAAAAB5I/xtq2JSL92eIgNT_co2eH8kQgubslst55QCLcB/s1600/m5142mockup2c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2J2GuHLJcyU/V-74d4Wr1GI/AAAAAAAAB5I/xtq2JSL92eIgNT_co2eH8kQgubslst55QCLcB/s320/m5142mockup2c.jpg" width="312" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">back view of mockup #2, M5142<br />in size 20</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
So, y'all can probably see why I went up to a size 22 for the third mockup. The fabric does eventually relax, just a little, but really not much. This is some inherited stash fabric, from hubby's grandmother who died last October. The printing on the selvedge says it was made in 1979! There is a lot of it - perhaps ten yards! - so we think she may have intended them to be curtains. Ah well, this certainly isn't the first time I've used a "home dec" fabric for a garment. I know it won't be the last time, either.dfr2010http://www.blogger.com/profile/15865244243226266725noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1166395328620413127.post-9982718795059468612016-09-26T09:23:00.001-05:002016-09-26T09:23:30.305-05:00McCall's 5142 jeans mockup #3I have pics of mockup #2, but am skipping to my third mockup just because. On #2, I took a wedge out of the front crotch curve, and it was noticeable enough that it was hubby's first comment upon seeing them on me. I wasn't completely satisfied, so for #3 I took another half-inch on the wedge, plus cut out size 22 instead of 20 for around the hips, grading back down to a 20 past the fullness of the hips.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XXfpov6YLCE/V-ksLTKB_XI/AAAAAAAAB4A/vpKgfAl73r4FedV0Q-FU31-5QtGBzvqYwCLcB/s1600/m5142mockup3a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XXfpov6YLCE/V-ksLTKB_XI/AAAAAAAAB4A/vpKgfAl73r4FedV0Q-FU31-5QtGBzvqYwCLcB/s320/m5142mockup3a.jpg" width="253" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">M5142 jeans mockup #3<br />in burgandy red twill cotton</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SO6Nwfs7tVg/V-ksLXGz_OI/AAAAAAAAB4E/9_BzFlNsLuI1Wrs3S2XGx8gQ1hw9ltB8wCLcB/s1600/m5142mockup3b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SO6Nwfs7tVg/V-ksLXGz_OI/AAAAAAAAB4E/9_BzFlNsLuI1Wrs3S2XGx8gQ1hw9ltB8wCLcB/s320/m5142mockup3b.jpg" width="210" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">side view, M5142 jeans mockup #3</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JYSyhmMYzjk/V-ksMPVZrYI/AAAAAAAAB4I/7mcMn3G4-CMXkWNtf9relB0sPB7LEt_VwCLcB/s1600/m5142mockup3c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JYSyhmMYzjk/V-ksMPVZrYI/AAAAAAAAB4I/7mcMn3G4-CMXkWNtf9relB0sPB7LEt_VwCLcB/s320/m5142mockup3c.jpg" width="234" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">rear view, M5142 jeans mockup #3<br />that's my lighter in the right back pocket</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
My impressions upon wearing them for a couple hours:<br />
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<ul>
<li>zipper lies flat against my front, so the wedge out of the front crotch curve may just be perfect. Zipper stays flat against me even when sitting.</li>
<li>they're quite loose through the hips and thighs .. no binding or snugness there.</li>
<li>waistband feels perfect! Even sitting, there is no gap in the small of my back.</li>
<li>Granted, view D is described as at-waist and wide leg, but I am wondering if they are just a bit too wide through the legs.</li>
<li>my fabric was about 3 inches too short to get the full length of leg on these, due to a seriously whopperjawed end. Ah well, it isn't too drastic.</li>
</ul>
<div>
Hubby's comment on them was that they look like dress pants more than just going-to-town jeans. He mentioned I should make a nice top to coordinate with these ... and I picked up a piece of nice shirting (I probably bought for him, originally) that matched the dark red perfectly. That will likely be the next thing I cut out and sew, using the new Cashmerette Harrison shirt pattern.</div>
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<br /></div>
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So, fitting on this jeans pattern - other than narrowing the legs a bit, is there anything I am missing? Comments, observations, and suggestions are welcome.</div>
dfr2010http://www.blogger.com/profile/15865244243226266725noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1166395328620413127.post-1921388112393366222016-09-16T11:53:00.001-05:002016-09-16T11:53:15.236-05:00Mockup for McCall's 5142 jeansSo, I have been sewing recently. I finally had a burst of motivation, in the form of A.) seeing what's out there in retail stores for sale (EEEK!!) and B.) having the left knee on another pair of jeans rip out too far. It's kind of funny, me saying the knee ripped out too far, as when I was in high school we were all putting holes in our jeans, but when the rip impedes movement because it slides down the shin and then binds up, it's ripped too much.<br />
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I started the mockup of the McCall's 5142 jeans pattern last month, after ripping out the zipper of a pair of jeans that tore from the back pocket to the side seam, but progress was a bit slow. I figured after cutting all the pieces out, I'd do the two things in the to-sew pile: hem swim trunks for hubby after shortening them by about five inches, and finally put the waistband in a pair of cotton flannel pajama pants that the cat has been using as a bed for far too long.<br />
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Hemming the swim trunks was easy. Getting the waistband in right proved to be a bit of a challenge. First I sewed the pocket towards the butt, so I ripped enough to move it forward of the side seam. Then I caught up a fold of fabric while restitching the waistband, so the seam ripper got even more use. Finally, I got it right - then called it a day.<br />
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I mentioned the fitful start to my friend Lynn (who is basically my partner-in-crime for a LOT of things, not just gardening and chickens), and her comment was, "I would have put it down and walked away. That's a classic bad sewing day." Me being me, I had to get it right before I could walk away.<br />
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Enough back story ... on to the mockup.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-C-E5hc04VUE/V9whrdzAYmI/AAAAAAAAB3w/wuPUWTm6ZNMV-f2XBUNvYMt4MtOEZHGHwCLcB/s1600/mc5142mockup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="246" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-C-E5hc04VUE/V9whrdzAYmI/AAAAAAAAB3w/wuPUWTm6ZNMV-f2XBUNvYMt4MtOEZHGHwCLcB/s320/mc5142mockup.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">McCall's 5142 jeans in mattress ticking</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Yup, that is mattress ticking. I have to wait until Sunday when Lynn can come over on her day off, because if she's been outside working all day then she's usually too tired to be any help in the evening. I am using the stripes to help with fitting. I have the mockup done enough to wear right now, and can tell I am not happy with the crotch curve, and just plain HATE the front pockets. They are too shallow to be of any use.<br />
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I didn't bother to hem the mockup, just straight stitched around then trimmed with pinking shears. While I planned to put in a buttonhole and button, I didn't leave myself enough room at the fly, but the old jeans zipper is holding it just fine. I think I am going to love the contoured waistband. I can't see behind me, but it feels like I do not have the gaposis in back like I usually do.<br />
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Normally, I'd have hubby take some pictures for me, but he is on the road with his parents en route to Fort Hood, Texas to go visit his brother, who will be going to Korea after he does his reclass training. That's going to be a long drive, and they are only going to the middle of Texas, not from one end to the other. So, I have to wait until Sunday, but that gives me plenty of opportunity to wear the mockup around the property for chores as it's stress test for comfort.dfr2010http://www.blogger.com/profile/15865244243226266725noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1166395328620413127.post-80653110075763655412016-05-24T09:48:00.000-05:002016-05-24T09:48:00.358-05:00Wild rose socksThe pattern is called Wandering Rose (free on Ravelry) and the yarn is Valley Yarns' Charlemont Kewttle Dye in Wild Pink, a lovely soft wool/silk/nylon blend. I started these while waiting for the train to go up to Kentucky, so Mom and Sis got to see and feel the leg portion of these socks, and Mom loves the yarn. I thought I'd pop a pic up for her.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QedAT6SECd8/V0RpZ2ot_pI/AAAAAAAAB0w/i4JpRes7EqsoQkp6ooWjpH8qRP3Ps4XZQCLcB/s1600/wanderingrose.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QedAT6SECd8/V0RpZ2ot_pI/AAAAAAAAB0w/i4JpRes7EqsoQkp6ooWjpH8qRP3Ps4XZQCLcB/s320/wanderingrose.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">wild rose socks</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
They are a bit loose on me, especially above the ankles, so if I do this pattern again, I'll need to remember to go down a needle size.dfr2010http://www.blogger.com/profile/15865244243226266725noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1166395328620413127.post-2633231387255038342015-09-11T10:15:00.000-05:002015-09-11T10:15:58.032-05:00Requested pictures for LaurenI have a new follower for the blog - Lauren - and you can surely tell she's new to my blog because she has requested pictures. I guess it's been a while since I have shown my notorious lack of photography skills here. The request is for pictures of the shirt pieces in the Simplicity 4059, which I made the one doublet and cap for my Ren Faire accomplice up in Tennessee a few years back. He preferred the shirt from a different pattern, so I have not made the S4059 shirt myself. These pics ought to help anyone decide whether or not to special order or put a hold on this pattern:<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rQqMUPEzUnU/VfLvEXcT-yI/AAAAAAAABno/2fcJirm7NT4/s1600/s4059shirt1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="282" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rQqMUPEzUnU/VfLvEXcT-yI/AAAAAAAABno/2fcJirm7NT4/s320/s4059shirt1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">S4059 shirt pieces layout</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fh6yjMuXYO0/VfLvETQ9mKI/AAAAAAAABns/Fvx4hSq6sdM/s1600/s4059shirt2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fh6yjMuXYO0/VfLvETQ9mKI/AAAAAAAABns/Fvx4hSq6sdM/s320/s4059shirt2.jpg" width="237" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">S4059 shirt instructions, part one</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yKcsQ73EgiI/VfLvGHYbAOI/AAAAAAAABn8/UubtpO8cwtI/s1600/s4059shirt3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yKcsQ73EgiI/VfLvGHYbAOI/AAAAAAAABn8/UubtpO8cwtI/s320/s4059shirt3.jpg" width="297" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">S4059 shirt instructions, part two</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-u_Gej4q0ApM/VfLvEch-pbI/AAAAAAAABn0/Ysu6m02C37c/s1600/s4059shirt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="261" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-u_Gej4q0ApM/VfLvEch-pbI/AAAAAAAABn0/Ysu6m02C37c/s320/s4059shirt.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">S4059 line drawings and pieces' shapes</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I do hope this helps. As for last evening ... y'all didn't want to read a post from me while I was in that kind of mood. Nothing like checking in for an appointment on time, then waiting for about an hour with the TV on too loud in the waiting room, and me without my knitting because I figured since I'd be driving myself then I wouldn't have time to knit. OK, so I am still a bit irked.dfr2010http://www.blogger.com/profile/15865244243226266725noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1166395328620413127.post-11733363240954403162015-08-25T09:03:00.001-05:002015-08-25T09:03:41.945-05:00Third time is the charmLast time I posted, I made note of stitch counts and whatnot for a pair of custom fitted knee socks. Two failed attempts (and several consolation/"quick" gratification ankle socks) later, and I think I may have it!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iI2QTAduKEc/Vdx0zJb6H1I/AAAAAAAABms/jyn9HgSPjdE/s1600/redknee24aug1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iI2QTAduKEc/Vdx0zJb6H1I/AAAAAAAABms/jyn9HgSPjdE/s320/redknee24aug1.jpg" width="267" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">leftover yarn knee socks</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7Mx63ZeQ8BI/Vdx0zIQKxDI/AAAAAAAABmo/83cM_WCAM7w/s1600/redknee24aug.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="256" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7Mx63ZeQ8BI/Vdx0zIQKxDI/AAAAAAAABmo/83cM_WCAM7w/s320/redknee24aug.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">back detail on knee socks</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I snapped the pic in my jammies shorts, as I am now in work jeans and about to put on my old basic training combat boots to go out and give these socks the real stress test: a morning of yard work. I am wondering if I used too much lace (which has more stretchiness than solid fabric and definitely more stretch than cables) for them to stay up on their own when subjected to heat, humidity, and activity ... so yard work in August is the ultimate test for that.<br />
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Enough procrastination. It is not raining at present, so I better go make the best of it.dfr2010http://www.blogger.com/profile/15865244243226266725noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1166395328620413127.post-46926609164401958942015-03-10T12:43:00.000-05:002015-03-10T12:43:12.255-05:00Kneesock knitting notesReally not much news on the textile-fabric-yarn front. I have knitted up one pair of kneesocks, and am sort-of working on getting the fit right, when I am not outside playing in the dirt or wrangling chickens or cooking or canning. For those interested in those subjects, check out <a href="http://sandghomesteade.blogspot.com/">my S&G Homesteade blog</a>. <br />
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Might as well post up the one pair of kneesocks.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1QulDNSAIsY/VP8rJjaBZTI/AAAAAAAABYY/CcqI4iQbEbI/s1600/primrosedone2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1QulDNSAIsY/VP8rJjaBZTI/AAAAAAAABYY/CcqI4iQbEbI/s1600/primrosedone2.jpg" height="303" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">purple Primrose kneesocks</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It is a paid pattern on Ravelry called "Primrose Socks" that I won in a drawing in one of my sock groups. Even though I followed the guage and measurements for sizing, they still slide down. So, I am working on doing a personally-fitted pair ... except last night I tried to frog back to my math mistake but could not get the stitches back on the needles, so I frogged the whole project. A much quieter solution than tryig to get my itty-bitty stitches on right.<br />
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Now, for fitting notes for my kneesocks:<br />
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<ul>
<li>CO only 68 stitches, as 72 was too many on the Primrose socks, and the pattern called for a CO of 80 for my size.</li>
<li>only a one-inch cuff, as I don't have a lot of length between the back of my knee and the widest portion of my calf</li>
<li>increase to 76 max after cuff ... again, 80 was too many on the Primrose socks</li>
<li>when doing the calf decrease, start it around 5 inches from top, and only decrease once every four rounds max - every other round is too sudden a decrease (and why I frogged the previous attempt)</li>
<li>work down to only 60 stitches at the ankle - 64 is a tad too slouchy for kneesocks ... even for regular mid-calf socks</li>
<li>long heel flap, with quite a few gusset pick-up stitches</li>
</ul>
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Everything else should be good to go. Now, to CO my 2nd attempt at fitted-for-me kneesocks, as my back is telling me I did too much planting, raking, digging, etc the past few days. But OH honey, we've had a couple gorgeous days down here to overdo it outside. Lovely "spring break" weather right now (rain forecast for tomorrow, of course).</div>
dfr2010http://www.blogger.com/profile/15865244243226266725noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1166395328620413127.post-37357447168106776312014-12-24T14:13:00.000-06:002014-12-24T14:13:04.619-06:00Busy seasonFirst off, I would like to wish folks out there a happy and safe holiday season ... whichever holiday is special to you between November and January. Secondly, I have been busy these past seven-eight weeks, starting before sunrise on Halloween morning when <a href="http://sandghomesteade.blogspot.com/2014/10/new-chicks.html">I picked up my batch of chicks</a>. This month of December has been quite the roller coaster, with <a href="http://sandghomesteade.blogspot.com/2014/12/raccoon-attack.html">first a raccoon</a> then the <a href="http://sandghomesteade.blogspot.com/2014/12/black-bears-attack.html">black bears </a>killing some of my chicks ... yet in between those trials we finally closed the sale on our house up in Tennessee and are now <a href="http://sandghomesteade.blogspot.com/2014/12/debt-free.html">completely debt free</a>. Triumph and tragedy, good and bad (and ugly, too) all one right after the other here.<br />
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With all my outside activities going on, I have not made much progress with fabric, and a small bit with yarn. This morning, I finally turned the heels on the first pair of knee socks I am knitting. At first I was annoyed when the 50g skeins ran out during the heel turn, then as I wove in the tails I realized that is actually the best spot to switch as weaving in ends strengthens the heel.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Lj_y_ZtfHUI/VJscxZw-ACI/AAAAAAAABIU/iryFJKP6t3E/s1600/primrosewip.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Lj_y_ZtfHUI/VJscxZw-ACI/AAAAAAAABIU/iryFJKP6t3E/s1600/primrosewip.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">knee socks in progress</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I have another pair of knee socks started, but I am not much past the cuff and have not yet finished the first motif. Also on the needles are two pairs of midcalf (regular height) socks for me. I have a pair for hubby that I took off the needles when I could not find my fifth set of circular sock needles. Ah well, a box of splurge/celebration yarn is working its way down to me and also has three more sets of sock circs.<br />
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I really do need to sew in the waistband on that pair of cotton flannel pajama bottoms. Then they will need a good wash before I can take pics, as the <a href="http://sewingmissadventure.blogspot.com/2014/08/meet-hubbys-chaos-demon.html">pink-nosed furry feline chaos demon</a> decided they are the perfect napping spot.<br />
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Next time I take this long off from blogging here, do take a peek at my <a href="http://sandghomesteade.blogspot.com/">S&G Homesteade blog</a> to see if we are just busy doing outdoor stuff - Florida is the Sunshine State, ya know.dfr2010http://www.blogger.com/profile/15865244243226266725noreply@blogger.com0