My first Alma blouse! Obviously, I'm already huge fan of Sewaholic Patterns, but this blouse truly sealed the deal for me. With only a slight modification (my standard petite adjustment at the waistline), I cut a straight size 2 and the fit is perfect! The fabric is a cotton shirting in black and orange stripes… Continue reading Alma blouse (and sash loop tip!)
With "winter" drawing to a close in Northern California, time is running short for sewing up the rest of the wool fabric I bought a few months ago. At this point, I'm not sure I can pull off another pair of wool pants or a dress, and still get reasonable use out of them before… Continue reading Renfrew cowlneck in silky wool knit
I know, I know...I just had my first day of school. But that was my own teaching quarter. As it turns out, I'm also taking a class, and my first day of Patternmaking at a local community college began this past Tuesday! Of course I had to make something to wear!(Awkward arm angle to show… Continue reading First day of school, new wool dress (Vogue 8902)
The start of the Winter quarter at the college was now a full week ago, but I've been busy enough that I hadn't yet gotten an opportunity to show off my "first day of school" pants until now (and now only because I'm procrastinating on some grading!). The fabric is another one of the wools… Continue reading New quarter, new wool pants
Truly, I had every intention of making pajamas for my boys, but I just had to cut myself a little slack in the days leading up to Christmas. However, the next three months are going to be busy, so I want to get all my loose ends sewn up (haha!) before it all starts. Since… Continue reading Christmas pajamas, a week late
Wow, that's terrible! I only made Christmas gifts for a single recipient, my sister, and it was something I should have made for her over the summer! This apron, from Lotta Jansdotter's Simple Sewing, is my favorite for everyday wear. It covers you, and it's reversible. This one was made with lovely printed linen, with… Continue reading My only handmade gift
Even with the onset of colder weather in California, I've not wanted to give up on wearing dresses. But tights with dresses, and the static that clings them together, make me completely crazy. So, with an opportunity to use some of Britex's beautiful silks, I just had to make a slip. The fabric I chose… Continue reading Cinnamon slip in silk with small bust adjustment
When I first "discovered" Thread Theory and their solid line-up of patterns, I was impressed and excited: stylish menswear! What a concept! So when they had a call for pattern testers for their newest pattern, the Goldstream Peacoat, I just had to respond, and was fortunate enough to be chosen to do it. Lucky me!… Continue reading Pattern testing: Goldstream Peacoat by Thread Theory
I'm not quite ready to reveal my most recent (big!) project, but here're a sneak peeks and some thoughts about it...This project marked the first time I've used shoulder pads (!). I sewed during the late 80s and 90s, so that's kind of impressive.My own blood, sweat, and tears (well, maybe not tears) went into… Continue reading Project in the works (Hint: more menswear!)
With the holidays quickly approaching, the season of get-togethers and parties with family, friends, and co-workers is nearly upon us! Whether it's as a gift for your sweetie or a unique statement to be worn yourself (you budding tailors out there!) sewing a special tie and coordinating pocket square is actually surprisingly easy.While silk is… Continue reading Holiday tie and pocket square for your man
Bea & Lucille 