Wednesday, March 23, 2016

New Top and Pattern Making








Slub voile! It has the visual texture of linen yet is super soft, light weight cotton! It drapes beautifully too. Saturday I sewed myself a much needed white sleeveless shirt, to replace two identical tops I made in 2014 which are falling apart through constant use. Being quite sheer I have lined it in regular cotton voile. Hand sewing the hem adds that special slow sewing, handmade finish. In our climate I wear tops like this all year round, just adding various weight jackets on cooler days.








When sewing clothes I usually don't use a pattern, even for complex items, instead I cut and sew using existing garments as a guide, designing and custom fitting in the process (trying it on after each stage to check). After completing this top I decided to make a pattern from it for easier duplication. I am quite happy with a no fuss, easy wear design like this which requires no zip or buttons. I have plans to make another one or two when the fabrics come on sale. 

Sew-in medium weight interfacing works well to trace a pattern onto. I wrote my directions directly onto the pattern pieces and also stitching lines to clarify. Some time ago I bought 4 metres of this interfacing when it was on special, with the intention of pattern making, and had it rolled onto an empty fabric cardboard tube at the shop for crease-free storage. The interfacing is sturdier than paper, withstanding pinning better and could always be repurposed.

7 comments:

Susan said...

Great work. Probably better made and better priced than anything you could buy. I used to sew all my clothes, even made my wedding dress, but just can't garner the enthusiasm anymore.

chica said...

Sempre no capricho ! Lindo top! Valeu! beijos, tudo de bom e desde já FELIZ PÁSCOA! chica

Susan said...

You are very clever to be able to make clothes without a pattern! I have enough trouble when I DO use one! Your skirt is pretty too!

Fun60 said...

It looks perfect for your climate. You are so talented.

Giga said...

Good idea of taking the formula. It will be easier to cut the material for another blouse. Made is very nice. Regards.

diane b said...

You are so clever and resourceful. The top looks lovely on you. Unfortunately I can't wear sleeveless tops any more due to my bat wings.

Unknown said...

Karen, this is beautiful, and I really love the fabric. It looks so airy and comfortable.

I used to sew a lot, and I too made my own patterns, but I never thought about doing it with interfacing. Really wonderful idea.

Thank you!!!!

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