My Sewtastic Life

Be The Leader Top Pattern (adult)

Both Skirts are paired with the Ellie and Mac Be the Leader Top:

The skirts work up so darn quick and I absolutely love the fit! These used a yard of fabric (with left-overs….). The black/gray is a heavy rayon spandex type blend and the mint green is a double brushed poly. Super comfortable and quick!

And since it’s going to start getting chilly here pretty soon, I decided to revisit a pattern that I love but is hard to recommend – as a fair warning, this pattern is in a different language and I’m really no help translating…. even after doing on-line translation, I still had to do some guesswork with the pattern in order to figure it out. But, if you are somewhat experienced in sewing, it’s not difficult to figure out what needs to be done.

This pattern is this one:

https://www.makerist.de/patterns/aspen-schnittmuster-groesse-34-48

But, of course I did a few modifications. For the gray one, I did a band across the front cross-over and also added cuffs to the bottom – this by far is my favorite changed one so far! For the galaxy chevron print one, I added the band across the front cross-over part.

Once you figure out the system of the pattern, it works up quite quick. I do love the look and style of the top, so I’ve made a few for wearing this fall and winter. Both of these fabrics came from here:

https://sinclairpatterns.com/product/macy-stretch-knit-semi-fitted-cowl-neck-top-sewing-pattern-pdf/?tm=shellyt420

And in the theme of trying out a pattern that I’ve had forever, but just never got around to making, I FINALLY decided to make the Sinclair Macy Top:

I have no idea why I didn’t make this pattern up sooner – I absolutely love this top. I did add bands to the arm holes instead, but that’s just because of my own personal preference (it hides the bra strap a little better for me! lol!) – but I’ll be making some without too…. and the long sleeve version! I really should have made this way sooner! It works up quite quick and has pretty detailed directions.

This one is made in a rayon spandex blend fabric from here:

https://www.peekaboopatternshop.com/cozy-toes-socks?aff=484

Great pattern – seriously – if you don’t have it yet, it’s one you’ll want to put on your list for when there’s a sale or something!

And of course, still working on trying to clear up some of those scraps that I’ve got piled up! In case you were wondering, the sweater knit scraps work WONDERFULLY for socks! These things are so darn cozy!

If you are looking for a great pattern for socks, this is one I’d highly recommend:

The pattern comes with ankle, crew, and knee-high lengths. Sizes for slim, regular, and petite. Honestly, I’ve tried a few sock patterns and although I could get them to fit after several tries of grading and tweeking here and there, this one was the first one that actually fit right from the pattern and it works up so nicely too!

The blue are a super soft sweater knit from Knitpop:

And the black/gray are a ribbed sweater knit from Sincerely Rylee:

Endless Summer Shorts Size XXS-5X

I swear, almost done…. lol!! I got these pieces of fabric in a scrap box from So Sew English. They are a nice crepe with a slight stretch… problem was – there was just over a 1/2 yard each – almost 3/4 yard, but not quite. So, not enough length at all for me to do a tank top like I originally would have thought. I know there are a few things I could have done – like an infinity scarf and things like that, but after feeling the fabric and originally thinking I’d wear them as tops, I kind of had it in mind that I’d be wearing the stuff…. especially since it felt rather comfy…. so, I decided maybe pj shorts??….. Then I remembered a pattern that I really LOVE that works up extremely quick and uses so little fabric –

Yes, the Endless Summer Shorts – Why in the world didn’t I think of this to use for PJ shorts all summer long??!!!

I do have a post about this pattern because I really do love it, so if you don’t have it yet, and want to read a little more about it, it’s somewhere in the older posts! Lol!

This pattern works up so darn quick and easy. No zippers or anything like that, so I have no idea why I didn’t consider it for pj shorts way before now, but I’m glad I just figured out that it would work for that because these are amazing!!!!

The last thing for right now is the Ellie & Mac Cold Shoulder Top –

Cold Shoulder Pattern (adult)

I’ve made a couple of these in the longer length with the cinched sides, but hadn’t tried out the banded bottom version yet. It works up quicker than the cinched sides. I like it – I just like the cinched sides better – it allows me to wear it with leggings or jeans and still look good. But, if you prefer the banded bottom, or are worried about doing cinched sides (which don’t be – it’s honestly really easy to do….. just follow the steps and you’ll be perfectly fine – trust me… ) – the banded bottom works out perfectly fine too!

This version was made in a double brushed poly from Knitpop:

So, these are a few of the things I’ve had on my sewing table this week and finished up…. I’ve actually paired it down a little since I had several more pair of leggings and socks and figured you didn’t want to see a trillion pictures of the same things! Lol! I’ve got a couple patterns I’m testing right now, along with some other new ones I haven’t tried out yet, so I’ll be posting a little more often coming up here shortly. Summer was a little slow for sewing, but now that school is back in session, I have a little more free time to sew up some pretties to share with everyone!

Hope you enjoyed your read today – and here’s to hoping you have a Sewtastic Day!

Uncategorized

Some Recent Makes – Socks, Hats, Tops, Etc. and a Couple Little Hacks

September 7, 2018 mysewtasticlifeLeave a comment

I’ve been doing a lot of odds-and-ends type sewing lately. Including attempting to make somewhat of a dent in my huge bin of scraps, so that includes a lot of little things. I tend to make quite a few things to be donated to some local shelters and a foster closet, so it’s a great way to use up some of the scraps and still do some good. Some of my go-to scrap buster patterns are always undies, socks, hats, and the slouchy headwarmer that can be worn many ways. So, just to show some worked up and pass along the patterns in case anyone was needing some good scrap busting ones, these are some I’ve done just recently.

Patterns for Pirates Free Slouchy Headwarmer – This pattern works up pretty quick. It takes a pretty nice sized piece of fabric, but these are very well-enjoyed by everyone I’ve gifted them to so far!

Free Slouchy Headwarmer

The black/gray is a ribbed sweater style knit and the dark green is a waffle knit. Both fabrics were from Sincerely Rylee which can be found here:

Patterns for Pirates also has a Free Slouchy Beanie pattern: The pattern works up quick and uses minimal fabric.

Free Slouchy Beanie

I’ve done it in quite a few different fabrics and it always tends to work out perfectly fine – as long as the fabric is stretchy! Lol! The bright blue is a lightweight stretch cordouroy type fabric from Surge Fabrics. The black ribbed and the dark rose ribbed are both sweater knits from Sincerely Rylee Fabrics which can be found here:

And the blue is a super soft sweater knit from Knitpop which can be found here:

https://savvypatterns.com/http:/savvypatterns.com/reversible-beanie/

I also use the Savvy Patterns Reversible Beanie. Last year the pattern was Free when it was originally launched, but it is now $3.00. I will say though, it’s a great pattern – works up quick, great look and fit and can be worn a few different ways since it’s reversible.

The pink and black is a super soft sweater knit from Sincerely Rylee –

The green is a distressed knit from The Fab Clique and it is lined with a standard jersey fabric.

For the panties, there are so many patterns out there, and I vary between a couple, but I’ll share one of my go-to’s that is completely FREE – you just need to sign up for the newsletter –

Acacia Underwear pattern

These work up quick and I like the fit. I’ve added bands to mine in addition to doing the standard trims and really like them both ways! And – it’s Free, so you really aren’t losing out on anything by giving it a try!

You can use cotton lycra, brushed poly, etc. for the panties – just make sure you use a cotton for the liner portion. The 2 floral pair were both done in Knitpop brushed poly fabrics –

The pink tie-dye pair was a rayon spandex from Sincerely Rylee –

https://www.peekaboopatternshop.com/cozy-toes-socks?aff=484

One of the other things I love to do with scrap is Socks! They are absolutely perfect for when you have those edge pieces that aren’t quite big enough to do much else with. And they work up way quicker and easier than you’d expect. I tried another pattern previously and had to do quite a bit of grading and readjusting before I got the pattern to my fit, but this particular pattern worked for me the first time around with no adjusting and making several pairs just to get the fit down –

The pattern comes with slim, regular, and plus widths and also has the ankle, crew, and knee-high size options, so you get all of them with the one pattern, which is nice too!

And to show the pattern works great with different fabrics, I’ve done it in several and have had them all come out perfectly fine!

The deep rose ribbed is a sweater knit from Sincerely Rylee – a pair of ankle and crew length –

The light gray stripe ankle socks are a bamboo spandex from Knitpop –

https://www.makerist.de/patterns/aspen-schnittmuster-groesse-34-48

And the dog print and butterfly print are brushed poly from Moon Bean Textiles.

In addition to doing some of those things, I’ve been revisiting some of my older patterns too. I finally decided to add a banded front to the Makerist top and love the way it is now with the added band – now remember, if you don’t have this pattern – it’s not in English…. and I had to do some translating and guesswork to get this to come out, but here’s the pattern if you are interested –

The long sleeve is a super cozy ribbed sweater knit from Sincerely Rylee. Funny story – this fabric actually came in a $7.00 SCRAP box along with several others! I wasn’t thrilled with the fabric upon first opening the package, let it sit there for quite a while and finally decided just to use it for this top because if the banded front didn’t work, I wouldn’t care if I had to toss this fabric – ends up I absolutely LOVE this top now! Lol!

The mauve short-sleeve is a rayon spandex rib knit from Knitpop:

And, I tried out those new George & Ginger Sincerely Darcey Pants – the pattern is free with the 2-part code in the George & Ginger and the Sincerely Darcey Announcement sections of their Facebook pages.

The pattern worked up really quick and easy….. I’m just not truly sure it’s a style that I’m too keen on when wearing. I loved the look, until I put it on and then I was completely torn between liking and disliking them…. I’m still on the fence about them.

I made mine in double brushed poly from Knitpop:

https://sinclairpatterns.com/product/penny-leggings-pdf-sewing-pattern/

I also made up some new leggings for the up-coming cooler weather. My go-to pattern for the legging pants is the Sinclair Penny Leggings. They are a classic styling with a contoured waistband, but the fit is so much better than the free ones I’ve tried. And they come in Petite, Regular, and Tall, so you don’t have to do all kinds of adjustments to get the size and fit you want. They also work up nice and quick too!

All 3 pair are made of cotton lycra fabric. All fabric was from the Grunge round run through Silver Fox Fabrics.

I’ve had the Sinclair Macy top pattern for quite some time and just never got around to making it, so I finally decided to give it a try….. really wish I would have sooner because I love it! I definitely plan on making some more of these.

https://sinclairpatterns.com/product/macy-stretch-knit-semi-fitted-cowl-neck-top-sewing-pattern-pdf/

I did add bands to the arms on this one, but there really wasn’t any reason other than I wanted to see how it would look with bands! Lol! This one was made in a double brushed poly from So Sew English Fabrics.

Then I revisited the Rebecca Page Peggy Pencil Skirt –

https://rebecca-page.com/product/ladies-knit-pencil-skirt-pattern/?affiliates=211

My son LOVES super heros and we’ve been watching Arrow….. and one of the best parts of the show is seeing the outfits Felicity wears. I decided to try to recreate one of her skirts (Pic of Felicity/Skirt from Google) with the Peggy Pencil Skirt –

I used a black quilted knit I got in a mystery box from So Sew English. I cut 2 of the front pattern pieces, laid them together and did opposite diagnal cuts across the fronts to give it the cross-over. Not hard at all, but that being said – after doing this, I discovered another pattern that would have been PERFECT to recreate this without any hacking, so if you want to do one (or when I do another one) – this is the pattern I’d use instead –

https://sinclairpatterns.com/product/amaya-asymmetrical-knit-pencil-skirt-pdf-sewing-pattern/?tm=shellyt420

While I had the pattern still out, I decided to go WAY OUT of my comfort zone and try the mini-length version of the Peggy Pencil Skirt just to see how it would be:

Hubby of course loves it…. I’m a little torn – It’s better than I was thinking it would be, but at the same time, I’m just not used to mini-skirts, so there’s the fear of indecent exposure too! Lol! This one was made in a cotton lycra from Elevated Fashion Fabrics.

And then….. revisiting the Ellie and Mac Going Home Sweater and giving it another little hack –

https://www.ellieandmac.com/collections/juniors-womens-patterns/products/womens-going-home-sweater-pattern/?aff=208

I had been seeing an off-the-shoulder raglan top for a little while now, but just wasn’t in the position to be buying new patterns yet, so I figured I’d use something I already had and create my own. This is a great raglan pattern for small little hacks like this! All I literally did was once the arms/sides were sewn and before the neckband, I put it on, determined where I wanted the off-the-shoulder and cut it accordingly across that side. I did have to make the neckband larger to accommodate the larger opening. But really – super simple!

The black and yellow floral/polka-dot combo are both double brushed poly from So Sew English Fabrics.

The black/white plaid combo is rayon spandex from Knitpop –

Relaxed Peplum Collection

And last (for now….. lol!) – of course I had to do another Halla Stardust. I just love this pattern so much – and it’s FREE with the code in the announcements section on their Facebook page.

http://lddy.no/1q5e

Made in cotton lycra fabric from the Grunge round from Silver Fox Fabrics. In case you are wondering – they are words to the song – Black Hole Sun. Lol!

Well, I hope you’ve had an enjoyable read and maybe come across a few new patterns to try or new fabric places to check out! I’ve got lots in the works right now so I’m hoping to be back to new patterns/posts very soon!

Here’s to hoping you have a Sewtastic Day!

general sewing · Pattern Tests · Uncategorized

Some Random Top Sewing – Mama Can Do It Peplum Top, Ellie & Mac Undercover Hoodie, and the Rebecca Page Wrap Around Top

August 23, 2018 mysewtasticlifeLeave a comment

As it will start getting cooler here any time now, it’s time to start sewing for the fall and winter seasons. As sad as it is to see the warm weather slowing going away, it is nice to start sewing some different things for the new seasons. I’ve tested a few different top patterns recently and wanted to give a little breakdown of some of the patterns.

First up will be the Mama Can Do It Peplum Top.

This top is a quick and easy sew. There are several different options to make different peplum skirts/lengths and sleeve lengths on the top. The pattern is straight-forward and easy to follow. Sews up quickly – I’d say it took about an hour if I was actually timing from beginning to finish. The pattern is easy enough for a beginner to complete. There is also a girl’s version too, so if you have a mini-me, you can make matching sets!

I did the standard shorter circle peplum bottom and a short sleeve top for mine. This is made in a liverpool fabric from Knitpop which can be found here:

I paired my top with a pair of the skinny leg version Mama Can Do It Women’s Fit Pants –

Relaxed Peplum Collection

I only did the one version of the top only because although I really like the style on everyone and the top pattern itself is great, I’m just not sold yet that I’m a peplum style girl… I like it, I’m just not sure how much I will personally wear it. I think I’m going to try at least one more to see how I feel about it before deciding for sure – and this has nothing to do with the pattern at all – it’s just my own personal style preferences.

So, if you are looking for a nice peplum top pattern for yourself, or your girl’s, this is one I’d recommend.

Next up, the Rebecca Page Wrap Around Top

https://rebecca-page.com/product/ladies-wrap-around-top-sewing-pattern/?affiliates=211

I love the idea behind this top, but with fair warning, it is quite time consuming getting your top on. But, once you are all tied up, it does stay where it should and you are not going to have to readjust and retie. That being said, it does take some time and effort to wrap those ties around your body. I do love the idea of the top, but it isn’t something I’d wear regularly because of the time involved. Although to be perfectly honest, it does make me think of “bondage” type apparel (which I do not wear… just for the record! lol!), which then makes me think that with the right print, this could be an amazing top to wear with some fake leather pants to a concert…. so, I do foresee at least one more in my future so I can have it on hand when the hubby decides there’s a band he just has to see! Lol!

All-in-all, the pattern is straight-forward and easy to follow and complete. There aren’t any difficult steps that anyone would get stuck on at all. It does however take quite a bit of fabric, so be prepared for that. The hardest part is seriously wrapping yourself in the top when it’s done. It is a time-consuming hemming process too, unless you just decide to leave yours unhemmed.

I would like to say though, because of the wrapping, you are not going to want to go with any heavier weight fabric because it’s going to add a lot of bulk. I made my version in a jersey knit fabric from LA Finch Fabrics.

I do really like the top and the concept…. that being said though, it is time consuming to wrap, and does use a lot more fabric than I would generally use for a top, so those are things you will want to keep in mind. If it’s something you know you would often wear, then it’s totally worth it. I will say though, it seems to be a really good maternity/breast feeding top too though from the pictures I’ve seen from the other testers, so that’s a possibility too!

If you are thinking about checking out the wrap around top pattern, it can be found here:

https://rebecca-page.com/product/ladies-wrap-around-top-sewing-pattern/?affiliates=211

And next, the Ellie and Mac Women’s Undercover Hoodie

https://www.ellieandmac.com/collections/juniors-womens-patterns/products/womens-undercover-hoodie-pattern/?aff=208

I’ll admit, I’m a little partial to hoodies…. I live in them when it’s cold. So, when given the opportunity to test one, I generally jump on the chance! Lol!

One of the things that drew me to this pattern was the color-blocking aspect. I loved the idea of being able to use some of my custom fabrics without having the full garment done in it – not only does that save the costly fabric since you don’t use so much, but it also just gives it a nice look since some of the prints can be a little overwhelming.

As you’d expect from any Ellie and Mac pattern, they are designed for confident beginners. This is no different. It’s straight-forward. Lots of pictures and instructions. Easy to complete. Of course, if you’ve never done a hood before or things like that, you may get a little stuck, but if you follow along with the pictures/instructions, you’ll easily figure it out and complete the garment.

In addition to the color-blocked front, there are also options to color-block the sleeves too. I chose to do mine in just a standard sleeve, but if you wanted to get more color-blocking on your hoodie, you can easily do it with the separate color-blocked sleeve pieces.

This version was made in a beautiful double-sided knit fabric from Boho Fabrics. To check out the great fabrics they have, you can find them here:

https://www.ellieandmac.com/collections/juniors-womens-patterns/products/womens-undercover-hoodie-pattern/?aff=208

This version was made in Cotton Lycra fabrics. The CD Toss print was from Silver Fox Fabrics and the solid black was from Knitpop.

So, if you are looking for a fun new hoodie pattern, this one works up rather quickly, and I like the color-blocked options to give it a little different look than a standard pull-over hoodie. You can find the pattern here:

Hope you had fun checking out a few of the new women’s top patterns that were recently released! As school will be back in session soon, I’ll have a little more time to go rouge and do some hacks and some other patterns. I’ve got quite a few things planned and a nice sized list going of things I’m going to start working on once the house is quite during the day again!

Here’s to hoping you have a Sewtastic Day and you don’t have to touch your seam ripper once today!

general sewing · Pattern Tests · Uncategorized

Some Ellie & Mac Pattern Sewing – Beautiful Day Top, Hip Hop Romper, Sweetheart Crop Top, and Shark Bite Top

August 10, 2018August 9, 2018 mysewtasticlifeLeave a comment

I’ve been busy sewing, but I haven’t done many posts lately…. some is because I decided to combine some things, but I’ve also been doing a lot of random sewing too – like using up some scraps (which I swear I’ll probably never finish up – I didn’t realize how much I had actually accumulated!) making some undies, socks, and I decided to start sewing some reusable menstrual pads, bags and crochet some toiletry items to be donated to some women’s shelters. So, to show some of the things I’ve been working on, I thought I’d do a post with a few items together.

First up is the newly released Ellie & Mac Beautiful Day Top.

https://www.ellieandmac.com/collections/juniors-womens-patterns/products/beautiful-day-top-pattern/?aff=208

Another easy and straight-forward sew. The pattern has a few different options – like sleeves with flounce/ruffle and a sash belt or a more fitted top. The pattern is designed for knits. Easy construction and instructions. Even a beginner can easily complete the top without any issue. Standard rounded neckline.

This version is made in a french terry fabric from So Sew English Fabrics.

I’ll say, I’m not sure that french terry was the right fabric choice for this pattern in particular. But that was completely my own choosing and fault. But the top is super cozy and will definitely get worn! Lol! The high-low peplum style bottom is going to make this nice and easy to work into the wardrobe since I can easily wear it with leggings or other pants. My version is the long-sleeve without any ruffle/flounce. I love the pictures of the flounce on the sleeves, but I chose a long sleeve so I can get more wear out of the top. It’s a cute pattern, straight-forward and easy to sew. I did only make this one version so far, but do plan on making a couple more to try it out in a few different fabric bases.

Pattern can be found here:

https://www.ellieandmac.com/collections/juniors-womens-patterns/products/beautiful-day-top-pattern/?aff=208

Next up – the Ellie and Mac Hip Hop Romper. If you don’t have the pattern and want it, it can be found here:

https://www.ellieandmac.com/products/womens-hip-hop-romper-pattern/?aff=208

I’ve had the pattern for some time now, but never got around to making it until now. I originally purchased it thinking it would be the perfect item to wear to this music festival me and the hubby usually attend, but something came up this year and we were not able to attend, so I didn’t end up making it. So, since I was in-between a few different projects, I figured I’d give it a try.

If you haven’t made it, this is an easy sew. It’s like a capri harem style pant and halter top. The top is lined and there is a casing all the way from your halter top neckline all the way through the back and around to the other side of the halter neckline, so it can easily be gathered tighter or looser depending on your fit and comfort. It’s a really quick and easy sew – you’ve got your front, back, linings, and the casing. Just because I like my casings to be a more durable standard turned style, I did mine with the sewn/turned style instead of the recommended “pull” style where your knit fabric will roll up into itself and form a tube. But, if you do the standard way, I’d highly suggest looking into the bobby pin trick (rather than using a safety pin) – it’s so much easier to use the bobby pin to turn this long strap and it works perfectly for feeding it through your casing on the romper too! This is designed for knit fabrics only. There are options for leg bands or elastic bottoms on the capri pants. I originally did the bands (because I tend to prefer bands over elastic), but I found them extremely loose and it just didn’t look or feel right to me – almost “frumpy”. So I took off the band and did the elastic legs and it looks and feels a lot better. I really would recommend just going with the elastic legs instead!

Here is my version made in a double brushed poly fabric from Knitpop:

If you haven’t checked out Knitpop for your fabric, you really should. Not only do they ship super quick and have great prices and a clearance section, they also have a rewards program too:

https://www.ellieandmac.com/products/womens-hip-hop-romper-pattern/?aff=208

Am I totally sold on this romper? No…. not really…. but it’s not because of the pattern or fit – I’m just not truly sure it’s my style. I’m not one to go without a bra – so it’s a little uncomfortable to me….. I do say that it will be perfect for that music festival, and I will be wearing this next year when we go, but to wear out on a regular basis, I don’t think I would. But, if it’s your style – do it! If you are concerned about the bra thing too, I’d suggest doing your front lining in an athletic type fabric so it gives a little more front coverage. Or, you could do a shelf bra on the lining too (which is basically just adding elastic to the bottom pieces), but I’m not a fan of shelf bras either as they don’t really do anything for me, so…… if you’re good with them, that’s an option too!

If you are wanting to check out the pattern, it can be found here:

Then I decided to try out the Sweetheart Crop Top Pattern by Ellie and Mac:

https://www.ellieandmac.com/products/teen-womens-sweetheart-crop-top-pattern/?aff=208

The one on the cover photo apparently came out quite a bit longer than my version. I used the pattern as-is and didn’t even do any petite adjustments, so I’m not sure why such a difference, but nonetheless, there was quite a difference….. maybe it’s the chest…. it’s really no biggie because I did use scraps to try out the pattern. And I can always just adjust the length of the pieces to give me more coverage, or even just make the band wider to give more coverage. One thing I did realize after making this one is that it would make an amazing sports bra using the right fabric, so that’s going on my to-do list very soon!

This top has a really cute “sweetheart” neckline which is what I liked about the pattern. I’m not going to wear the one I made out in public at all – actually, I think I’m going to make some cute shorts to go with it and make it a sleep outfit to be perfectly honest. I’ll use this pattern, but I’ll end up doing this length for sports bras and lengthen it if I want an actual tank pattern.

The top is lined, which is nice because then you can decided to wear or not wear a bra with it. Easy construction with straightforward instructions. It takes very little fabric. The only thing that may be a little difficult for a complete beginner would be those curved seams on the bodice. But just take your time, read the instructions, and you’ll have no problem at all.

So, now that I’ve kept talking about how short mine, is, here is the version I did:

The fabric for this one was from Boho Fabrics. They have some beautiful fabrics and really good prices – and they have a Fabric Happy Hour section with bundles that are an even better deal:

https://www.ellieandmac.com/products/teen-womens-sweetheart-crop-top-pattern/?aff=208

I really like the look of this…. I’m just personally not comfortable with the length. But as I said – I plan on doing this length for some sports bras because man is that ever going to look cute with work-out leggings…. and add some length to it to make it into more of a tank styling – I’d personally make it to where it ends at my natural waistline so there’s just a tiny bit of belly sticking out. This one is one of those patterns that if you don’t have it (and aren’t in desperate need right now), I’d keep waiting for it to go on the Wacky Wednesday $1.00 sale and buy it then! But, if you want to check it out now (or if you are really extremely loyal and hear it’s on sale and want to come back here to go through my link), it can be found here:

And finally in this post, I decided to try out the Shark Bite Top:

https://www.ellieandmac.com/collections/juniors-womens-patterns/products/womens-shark-bite-top-pattern/?aff=208

I’ve passed by this pattern numerous times – just doesn’t quite catch my eye as something I’d wear. But, it happened to be on a Wacky Wednesday $1.00 sale AND I happened to see someone posting their version which was tied in the front and that caught my eye. For my own style purposes, I wasn’t sold on those shark bite sides, but I figured if I could use those to make it a tie-front version, then I knew I’d definitely wear it.

It’s another straight-forward, easy sew. Front, back, sleeves, and neckband. Made for knit fabrics. Super quick to make. There are options for doing the top all in the same fabric like I did, or to have color-blocked sides instead.

I did this version in a tri-blend jersey fabric from So Sew English fabrics.

I will say that after actually making it, I do like the shark bite sides, so I’m glad I ended up grabbing the pattern. It’s really one that I thought I wouldn’t care for, but at least wanted to give it a try, and am pleasantly surprised at how much I actually do like the look. A lot of the pictures I saw had the sides in a different fabric, and that may be what was throwing my perspective of it off, because with a solid, I actually really like it and will end up wearing it without it tied.

So, if it’s a pattern that you think you may be interested in, you can find it here:

https://www.ellieandmac.com/collections/juniors-womens-patterns/products/womens-shark-bite-top-pattern/?aff=208

So, there are a few of the things I’ve been working on and I hope you enjoyed finding out a little more about the patterns themselves!

Here’s to hoping you have a Sewtastic Day!

general sewing · Pattern Tests · Uncategorized

Some New Rebecca Page Releases – Peggy Pencil Skirt, Eloise Off the Shoulder, and Olivia Top

August 9, 2018 mysewtasticlifeLeave a comment

Rebecca Page patterns has had a few new releases recently that I’ve sewn up – either as a Brand Rep commitment or as a tester. But, since I found a few of them similar, I thought I’d combine them into one post so I can show the differences in the patterns just in case you were debating between some.

First up, is the recently released Peggy Pencil Skirt. If you already purchased the Dreamy Drape Add-On which has the skirt, this pattern is going to be very similar. The only real difference is going to be that this pattern has options for the standard pencil skirt fit or a bodycon fit. The pattern is a quick and easy pencil skirt. Made for knit fabrics. Knit waistband, different lengths (mini, knee, midi) and an optional kick slit in the back. If you wanted to check out the pattern, it can be found here:

https://rebecca-page.com/product/ladies-knit-pencil-skirt-pattern/?affiliates=211

The skirt works up quick and easy – like maybe a half hour from cut to finish. Super easy project. The skirt does have a great fit – I was able to make mine straight off the pattern without any grading or adjusting at all other than for my height since I’m petite.

This version was made with a flocked double brushed poly fabric from Knitpop. If you haven’t checked out Knitpop for their fabrics, you really should – on top of super quick shipping and great prices (and a clearance section too!), they have a rewards program that adds up pretty quick. They can be found here:

https://rebecca-page.com/product/ladies-knit-pencil-skirt-pattern/?affiliates=211

I will say this is definitely one of the better fitting pencil skirt patterns that I’ve used so far, and without having to grade it and keep making adjustments until it fit me properly. So, if you are looking for a really good fitting pencil skirt, especially with different length options, it is worth the purchase. If you are looking for it, it can be found here:

Next Up:

The Eloise Off Shoulder

https://rebecca-page.com/product/ladies-off-the-shoulder-maxi-sewing-pattern/?affiliates=211

This pattern is pretty versatile. It’s made for lightweight woven fabrics, but I think you could easily do it in knits too – without any adjustments either because of the styling of this. You have an option to do the shirring (like I did on my versions) or you an use elastic instead. So, if you aren’t familiar with shirring, or just don’t want to do it, you can always do the elastic options instead.

The pattern has the elastic or shirring options as mentioned, but has different sleeve length options and length options, so there are a lot of possibilities with this pattern. You can do a top or a dress. Maxi length, top length, and all of those goodies. You can add elastic or shirring to the sleeves or not, add elastic or shirring to the waist area or not… and they all give different looks depending on the fabric and the addition or non-use of the shirring or elastic.

The pattern is pretty straight-forward and easy to construct. It does take a lot of fabric though, so really pay attention to those fabric amount recommendations. I had originally planned on doing a maxi length for the dress, but didn’t realize it took quite as much fabric as it did when I ordered my fabric and I just ordered what I’d generally use for a maxi dress…. needless to say, I ended up with a knee length instead!

This truly is a pattern that is going to look different depending on your fabric choice itself and whether you are shirring or using elastic, and even if you add your elastic/shirring to the sleeves and waist! I did a couple different versions just to show how those things can change the way the pattern looks.

This is the dress version. Made in a great crepe fabric from Boho Fabrics. If you haven’t checked them out before, they have these great Fabric Happy Hour bundles where the fabric is a great price –

I did add some trim to the bottom of this – it’s not part of the pattern options, I just happened to have this trim on-hand and it went will with the fabric. A last minute little addition.

I did the 3/4 sleeve option. I used the shirring on the neckline, sleeves, and waist. I do like this dress and it will get worn this summer. I would say though, you may want to do an extra row or 2 of shirring on the neckline if you make it because the recommended rows don’t shirr it in as tightly as I’d personally like – after pictures I did end up adding another 2 rows and love it more.

This one is the top version in a lightweight cotton blend fabric. I have no idea the actual content – it’s actually really lightweight and I thought it would hang nicer than it actually does…. I got this fabric in some destash bundle a few years ago. For this, I did the top version, short sleeves and only did the shirring on the neckline. I love the IDEA of this top, but when putting it on, I’m just not sold. I’m not one to need super tight or fitted garments, but at the same time, I really don’t like feeling like I’m wearing a tent either. I just don’t think it’s a very flattering top…. but that’s just my own personal opinion – if you like the style, go for it! I think if you did it in a knit rather than the wovens like the pattern is made for, it will make a big difference….. if I come across some knit that I’m not too fond of and have a little free time, I may try one, but it’s definitely not on my high-priority list for now.

To be honest, after doing the plaid top, I really had no desire to try another top version, but one of the other testers did the elastic waistband version and I liked hers, so I figured I’d give it another shot. Honestly, I really do like this version WAY better! This actually is loose and flowy while still giving me somewhat of a figure! This one I will actually wear and will probably make again. I did the shirred neckline, longer sleeves with shirred bottoms, and the shirred waistline. For this, I did add extra rows to the shirring rather than the recommended amount because I already knew from the dress version that I needed the extra rows for my own comfort and fit. This fabric is a lightweight crepe from Knitpop.

If you haven’t checked out Knitpop before for your fabrics, you are missing out! They have a great rewards program that adds up pretty quick, they ship quick and have great prices:

https://rebecca-page.com/product/ladies-off-the-shoulder-maxi-sewing-pattern/?affiliates=211

And if you want to check out the Eloise pattern to see if it’s something you may like (and be sure to check out the tester photos since it shows different versions and how it looks with elastic and shirring options), it can be found here:

Next Up – The Olivia Top

https://rebecca-page.com/product/ladies-peasant-top-sewing-pattern/?affiliates=211

This is a peasant style top with an elastic neckband and different length and sleeve length options. And you’ll see why I ended up combining the post with the Eloise…. The pattern is very similar – except, with the Eloise, you’ll have all the dress length options too. Now, there are slight differences – this pattern in particular is actually made to be used with knits or wovens. And the neckline isn’t an off-the-shoulder. But, by just tightening the neckline on the Eloise, it could be more on-the-shoulder too…. But, if you aren’t wanting to go through all of that, and don’t care about the dress option and are just looking for a cute and easy peasant style top, the Olivia would be the one you want to pick. The cut is also slightly different…. so, they are different patterns, but there are some similarities in their styles, which is why I decided to combine them into one post – because I’m sure I’m not the only one who can’t just purchase every pattern the minute they come out and sometimes have to debate between a couple… and this way, you have a little comparison on the two patterns in the event you were debating which one to get.

The construction is quick and easy. Straight-forward construction and instructions. A quick sewing project. I’m just not personally sure that it’s a style I’m super in love with at all yet. I do have a couple of thoughts on changing the pattern to my style a little more – like with the knit one, adding a thin elastic band on the bottom to give it more of a poofy style look….. which I may eventually try when I have some free time and feel like messing around.

This version is made in a gauze fabric from Knitpop. Knitpop can be found here if you haven’t used them before for ordering your fabrics (great prices, clearance section, fast shipping, and a rewards program too!!!) –

https://rebecca-page.com/product/ladies-peasant-top-sewing-pattern/?affiliates=211

I did the short sleeves with the elastic band neckline and sleeves on this version. It’s comfy and cute…. just not quite sold yet that it’s a style that I’ll wear very often.

After making this one, I decided to see how it would hang in a knit fabric. This is a thicker rayon spandex blend fabric from LA Finch Fabrics –

Long sleeve version with the elastic neckline and bottoms of sleeves. I do like the way it hangs and fits way better in the knit fabric rather than the woven/gauze. It’s a basic top…. I’m still not completely sold on it for my own personal style, but I’ll wear it a few times and see how it grows on me.

So now you can check out the top version of the Eloise and the Olivia all in the same place so you can see how they both look and determine the differences to see if you want either or both of the patterns – I hope this helps some that may be questioning the differences between the two.

This pattern can be found here:

Thanks for hanging out with me today and here’s to wishing you a Sewtastic Day!

general sewing · Pattern Tests · Uncategorized

Mama Can Do It Women’s Fit Pants – Quite Possibly the Only Pants Pattern You Will Ever Need!

August 3, 2018August 4, 2018 mysewtasticlifeLeave a comment

Mama Can Do It just released the Women’s Fit Pants pattern. I swear, they could easily rename this the endless options pants, the only pants pattern you’ll ever need, or the perfect pants pattern! You will be shocked at the amount of options available with this pattern – it seriously has almost all of your pants AND shorts needs covered – unless you want actual jeans! LOL!

I was selected as a tester on the pattern, and we had to pick an option to sew. I didn’t realize at first how many options there truly were with this pattern until I started working with the actual pattern itself. There are 2 different waistband options – a yoga band, or an elastic waistband. This pattern is designed for knits with a 50% or more stretch. The pattern is really easy to complete and has very straight-forward and easy instructions. The pattern has a shortie short option, regular shorts, capri, and regular lengths. On top of it, you have so many different style like – flare leg, bell bottom, skinny, regular, and wide! This means – you can use the same pattern and make a pair of leggings, make a pair of yoga pants, make a pair of bell bottoms or flared pants…. you want a wide leg nice pant to wear to work – you’ve got it…. and then use the same pattern for some standard leg sweat pants too! How about some skinny leg capri pants – it’s got you covered! Seriously, when you start looking at the pattern and realizing all of the options, it’s a little crazy…… which is why you are going to see so many different styles from me here! Lol!! I didn’t do EVERY option possible, but I did try to do several different ones just to give you an idea of the versatility of this pattern!

Oh, and I forgot to mention one of the most important options – POCKETS!!! You have options for front AND back pockets…. you can chose – you want regular yoga pants with no pockets – no problem! Dressier pants with an elastic waist and front and back pockets – you got it! Dress pants with just front pockets – yup – covered! Sweats with just back pockets – there you go!

This truly is one amazing pattern! The pattern itself goes together very quickly and easily too. Mine took a little longer only because I did have to make my petite height adjustments. But other than that, no issue at all! It’s really a pattern I can’t think of one thing bad to say about at all. Even the testing process itself was a breeze – like seriously, there was a lot of thought and effort put in by the designer to make sure the pattern was almost perfect before having the testers spend time making any of the versions.

These are just a few of the versions that can be made from this pattern – and trust me, I’ll be making a lot more! If you want me to be brutally honest, this pattern will probably replace MOST of my other pants patterns….. there’s one in particular that I’ve adjusted many times to get a really good fit that I’ll end up keeping, but other than that, I really don’t see a need to keep any of the other patterns since I can do almost everything I’d need with this one pattern itself – including shorts! But, remember – this pattern is for KNIT fabrics, so if you have some of your woven shorts/pants patterns, you are still going to need to keep those! Lol!

This version is the shortie shorts. This was the first version I did just to check for fit of the rise, etc….

This version was made in a french terry fabric from Knitpop. With this version, I did the elastic waistband version and the front pockets and faux fly options. Seriously – you need to check out Knitpop for fabrics – their prices are great (and a clearance section too), they ship super quick, and they have a rewards program –

Next up:

This is a wide, flare leg option with the yoga waistband, made in a modal spandex fabric from Fabric Mart. Oh my gosh are these ever comfy!!!

This version was made in a ponte fabric from The Fab Clique. This is the wide leg option with the elastic waistband, back pockets, and faux fly.

This version is the regular/straight leg option with an elastic waistband and front pockets, made in a baby french terry fabric from LA Finch Fabrics.

This version is made in a french terry fabric from So Sew English. This is the regular/straight leg option cut to the capri line. I did add my own cuffs to the bottoms. This pair has the faux fly, front pockets and elastic waistband options.

And last (for now – trust me I’ll be making many, many more pair of pants from this pattern!)

This pair is made in a fabric from Knitpop. I’m not positive what the fabrics is (I got it in a mystery box), but it feels like what I imagine fabric would feel like if ponte and Liverpool had a baby! Lol! This is the skinny leg option cut at the capri line with an elastic waist, front and back pockets, and faux fly options.

Here is Knitpop again in case I’ve now convinced you to check them out (lol!) –

So, as you can see just from the versions I’ve shown, the pattern is so versatile! I still have so many ways I plan on doing this pattern with the different options available. If I could only recommend ONE pattern for someone to purchase, this one would be it…. you can use it year around and you can use it for almost all of your needs!

https://www.ellieandmac.com/collections/juniors-womens-patterns/products/womens-cold-shoulder-pattern/?aff=208

Well – of course that wasn’t the last pair! Lol!! I had to quickly whip up some of the bell bottoms just to try them out too! This tie dye double brushed poly from Knitpop was just screaming that it wanted to be some funky bell bottom pants!

Hopefully I’ve helped give you some inspiration to get the pattern and start coming up with your own awesome combinations to make all of the pants and shorts you can dream of!

Thanks for hanging out with me today and I hope you enjoy this pattern as much as I have – and will continue to as I have several more pair already planned! And here’s to hoping you have a Sewtastic Day!

general sewing · Pattern Tests · Uncategorized

Ellie & Mac Cold Shoulder Top – My Favorite Fall Top This Year So Far

August 2, 2018 mysewtasticlifeLeave a comment

Ellie and Mac just released this amazing Cold Shoulder Top Pattern:

This truly has to be one of my favorite top patterns for the upcoming fall season so far! I absolutely love this style. And this pattern in particular is very quick and easy!

If you are not familiar with Ellie and Mac patterns, they are designed for advanced beginners, which means easy construction and detailed instructions. But they are also great for more seasoned seamstresses too.

The pattern is designed for knit fabrics and has options for the cinched sides or a banded bottom and different sleeve lengths. The construction is quite quick and easy and straight-forward. I will say though – just don’t sew your sleeves on wrong like I did on the first one! Lol!! I couldn’t figure out why the bands weren’t working out….. until I realized that I had my sleeve on wrong – with the seam on the top rather than matching up with the side like it is made to be! Other than that – no issues at all.

The banded bottom is a great option – which I’m sure I’ll eventually make, but right now I’m loving those cinched sides! And if you are a tad worried about doing cinched sides, don’t be – it’s so easy….. the side seams of the top make the casing for your ties. And if you are having issues turning those little ties after sewing them, there are a couple things that make it easier – look up the bobby pin trick – you use a bobby pin rather than a safety pin and trust me – it’s a hundred times quicker and easier – and works out great for pulling them through the casings too! If you don’t want to bother even doing that, then as long as your knit fabric isn’t something like sweater knit that will unravel, you can just pull the ties until the sides curl up on themselves and make a tube itself instead of sewing it at all. Personally, once you do the bobby pin trick, I think you’ll continue making the regular sewn ties and turning them because it’s just as easy and looks better in the end!

So far I’ve only made 2 versions of the top, but have plans for several more – I just ran out of time for now since I had a few other things going that needed completing before this pattern was going to be released. When I get some time to make some more, I’ll end up updating the post with some more versions in different fabrics so you can see how it works out in different bases. But for now:

This version was made in a rayon spandex fabric. This is the 3/4 sleeve version with the cinched sides. This fabric was from Knitpop which can be found here:

https://www.ellieandmac.com/collections/juniors-womens-patterns/products/womens-cold-shoulder-pattern/?aff=208

If you haven’t checked out Knitpop for fabric before, you really should – I shop at several places, but this happens to be one of my go-to’s because they ship quick, they have a great rewards program, and they have good prices and a good clearance section too! So, if you want to check them out and see what they have, use the link above and make sure to sign up for the free account so you can start earning rewards instantly!

This version was made with a lightweight sweater knit from So Sew English Fabrics. This is the cinched sides long sleeve version with cuffs. Personally, I love long sleeve cuffs, but that’s because I like being able to push them up when I want and have the option of having them long if I’m colder.

As you can see, it’s a standard kind of top – just with nice cut-outs on the shoulder. Standard rounded style neckline. And easy construction too! The longest sewing part is going to be your side areas if you are doing the cinched sides since you will need to do your cinch ties and the casings. But other than that, it’s a complete breeze. I like the banded look too from the pictures I’ve seen so far, but I really like the cinched sides because I think this way I’ll be able to get even more use out of the tops since I can loosen the sides if I want to make it a little longer – then I can wear it with leggings too, or tighten them to bring it up a little more to wear with jeans and other pants.

I didn’t find much of a difference in the fit itself between the rayon spandex and the sweater knit fabrics. So really, it’s just your fabric preference which is going to make the top for you.

So, if you are looking for a great, quick and easy cold-shoulder top pattern for this fall season, check it out here:

Thanks for hanging out with me today – and here’s to hoping you have a Sewtastic Day!!

general sewing · Pattern Tests · Uncategorized

A Perfect Scrap Buster, Go-To, Quick and Easy Top – The Ellie & Mac 24/7 Top

July 17, 2018 mysewtasticlifeLeave a comment

Ellie and Mac’s newest release – the 24/7 Top – is such a great pattern to have on hand –

https://www.ellieandmac.com/collections/juniors-womens-patterns/products/womens-24-7-top-pattern/?aff=208

I’m a sucker for a good, quick top pattern. They are great to have on hand when you want something new to wear, but don’t have a ton of time to sew. This pattern is not only super quick and easy, but it’s a great scrap-buster project too. No, not those tiny little pieces we have left, but I know that most of us have some decent sized pieces left after certain projects that end up sitting around because we could easily get some other project out of it, but there’s not enough of the fabric all by itself. Well, now you can make a cute top with those pieces too! For my versions of this top, that’s exactly what I did – found those nice sized chunks that I had left from other things and mixed them up and came up with some cute tops! Or, if you like to buy those mystery scrap packs from some of the fabric companies and end up with some pieces that just aren’t quite big enough for what you wanted, pull out this pattern and you’ll still get something amazingly wonderful to wear!

https://www.ellieandmac.com/collections/juniors-womens-patterns/products/womens-24-7-top-pattern/?aff=208

First, this pattern is very beginner friendly. So, if you are newer to sewing, don’t fear it – it may look like it’s difficult since there are other fabrics, etc… but it’s truly not! And it’s an extremely quick sew!

Another benefit to this pattern – you see that bottom little area, and that large back area with the pleat (I’ll show you also later on some that I did with the pleat going the opposite way to give it a different look in the back too….) – those can be made with woven fabrics too – so if you have some smaller pieces of wovens (even chiffon, rayon challis, etc….), you can use those with this pattern!

Now, because I was piecing together other fabrics, I don’t know exactly how much I used for my versions, but I’m going to say that my sizing took less than a yard for the full top (that’s a grand total for both fabrics too….), so it didn’t take much at all for me to have a great top. And less than an hour of sewing from cut to complete. The pattern comes in a large size range – starting at XXS and running up to 5X sizing. The pattern consists of your bodice front, the bottom contrast, bodice back top, bodice back bottom and a neckband. Construction is super easy – basically just putting them together and done! The bottom back area does have a super easy pleat that you can do regular, or if you do the pleat on the back side instead of the front, it gives a slightly different v shaping on the back rather than a pleat…. and the only reason I’m saying this is that if you mess up on your pleat when making it, don’t get upset – you can easily go with it and it still looks great!

Another benefit – this top is going to look great all year around – I can easily pair it with a cardi when it’s cold, wear it with jeans in the fall, or shorts in the summer!

For this version, I used a double brushed poly for the back/white dot and a cotton-lycra for the solid white. This is the inverted pleat instead of the normal pleat.

This version is all double-brushed poly. This one I did add long sleeves to the pattern…. The top itself has a dolman style sleeve area and I happened to have a pattern piece from another dolman top I had and decided to give it a try and see how it would look with some contrast long sleeves…. and I love it! This one has the normal pleat in the back although it’s hard to see on the black fabric.

This one was made with a double brushed poly for the body and the contrast is rayon challis. This has the standard pleat too.

And this one is double brushed poly for the lemon print bodice and cotton lycra for the contrasts. This has the inverted pleat.

And another double brushed poly and cotton lycra mix.

So, you can easily see how easy this would be to make and use up some of those fabrics you have that you can’t make a full top out of. And how cute it looks. Heck, if you really wanted to, you can even do the pattern in all the same fabric too.

So, if you are looking for an all-around great pattern, you should really grab this one –

https://www.ellieandmac.com/collections/juniors-womens-patterns/products/womens-24-7-top-pattern/?aff=208

And if you are wondering how well it works with those custom panels and fabrics –

This fabric was from Foster Fabrics.

https://www.ellieandmac.com/collections/juniors-womens-patterns/products/womens-24-7-top-pattern/?aff=208

Thanks for hanging out with me today and here’s to hoping you have a Sewtastic Day!

general sewing · Pattern Tests · Uncategorized

A Quick and Fun Racerback for Summer – Bella Sunshine Sophia Racerback Tank or Dress and a Hacked Maxi Version too!

July 11, 2018July 16, 2018 mysewtasticlifeLeave a comment

If you really don’t want to read all through the post just to get to the pattern, it can be found here:

https://bellasunshinedesigns.com/product/sophia-racerback-ladies/?affiliates=shellyt420%40wowway.com

I recently spent some time testing the new Bella Sunshine Designs Sophia Racerback Dress/Tunic/Top Pattern. Racerbacks seem to be one of those styles that don’t ever really go out of style, and are always popular, so I’m always game for anything new that may change up the design slightly or just give a different fit from the patterns that I currently have.

Pattern Info:

Fit: The pattern is designed to have a fitted bodice that flows out at the waistline to give a nice swing styling.

Fabrics: This is designed for knit fabrics

Options: Top, Tunic, and Dress lengths – dress with optional pockets

This pattern is an easy sew. A beginner can easily complete this without any issues. There are detailed directions so that even if you are very new to sewing, you will be able to follow along and complete the garment. The pattern consists of a front bodice, a back bodice, arm bands, a neck band, and optional pockets. It’s also a very quick sew – it took less than an hour from cut to finish to make the tops. The dress took slightly longer only because of the addition of the pockets.

This is the dress version. The bodice is exactly the same as the top/tunic version – just longer with more swing on the bottom. I did do the optional pockets on my dress version, but that’s because I always love pockets! LOL! This version was made in a nice rayon spandex blend fabric from Girl Charlee Fabrics and took approximately 2 yards with some left over.

If you’d like to check out the Girl Charlee Fabrics selection, they can be found here:

http://www.girlcharlee.com/create_account.php?refid=71536

This is the top version done in a double brushed poly fabric from Pretty Posh Prints.

If you’d like to check out the fabric selection at Pretty Posh Prints, they can be found here:

http://prettyposhprints.com?aff=22

And another top version done in a double brushed poly from Knitpop.

If you’d like to check out the fabric selection available at Knitpop, they can be found here:

http://www.knitpop.com/?aff=27

And another top version done in a rayon spandex blend from Knitpop.

If you’d like to check out the fabric selection available at Knitpop, they can be found here:

http://www.knitpop.com/?aff=27

And if you are ready to purchase the pattern, it can be found here:

https://bellasunshinedesigns.com/product/sophia-racerback-ladies/?affiliates=shellyt420%40wowway.com

I actually really enjoyed sewing up this pattern. It’s a very gratifying quick sew – I can whip up a new top quicker than waiting for the washing machine, and I find that it is a very flattering fit on most body styles that I’ve seen during the testing process. I didn’t encounter any issues with the pattern itself or the finished garment. The drape on the swing area of the top/dress will change slightly based on your fabric choice itself because some drape better than others, but they all look relatively the same. The top versions I used a yard of fabric for each and I still had some left over to make a few small items (like a pair of undies, etc.), so if you purchase your fabrics from any of the places I recommended, you can have a really nice new top for about $5.00 or less generally – but that depends on your own fabric choices – I just happen to be one of those individuals that likes a really good sale and will end up stocking up during a clearance sale and such because I find it to be even more gratifying when I can make something that looks so nice and it ends up still being way cheaper than I could have purchased the same thing in any store for. Each of the fabrics I used for my versions were $5.00/yard or less when I purchased them. The dress fabric that used 2 yards cost only about $7.00 because I picked it up during a big sale and the fabric was only $3.50/yard!

So, if you are wanting a cute summer top or dress and like the racerback look but don’t want a standard totally fitted tank, I’d highly recommend this pattern. It’s cute, comfy, and works up really quick!

Quick links to all places mentioned so you don’t have to scroll back through to find everything:

Pattern:

https://bellasunshinedesigns.com/product/sophia-racerback-ladies/?affiliates=shellyt420%40wowway.com

Fabric:

http://www.girlcharlee.com/create_account.php?refid=71536

http://prettyposhprints.com?aff=22

http://www.knitpop.com/?aff=27

If you purchase this pattern, I hope you enjoy it as much as me! In the meantime, I’m off to cut a few more of these out so I can sew them up for my summer wardrobe!

As promised, here’s another one I did – this time I just added length to the dress version to make it more of a maxi and gave it a slight high/low front and back!

This one was done in a rayon spandex blend fabric from Boho Fabrics –

https://www.ellieandmac.com/collections/juniors-womens-patterns/products/womens-tulip-dress-tunic-pattern/?aff=208

Thanks for hanging out with me today – and remember – you are amazing and truly one-of-a-kind and I hope you have a sewtastic day!

#mysewtasticlife

general sewing · Pattern Tests

The Dress Everyone Has Been Asking For – Finally in a Pattern Form (No Hacks Needed!) – Ellie and Mac Tulip Dress – With a Continual Hem Technique Added

July 10, 2018 mysewtasticlifeLeave a comment

In the even you are only here to find out where the pattern is, you can find it here without having to read any further:

So, I’ve seen so many requests for a pinterest dress that has a cross-over front bottom, and if you read my blog, you’ll see that I did a hack of 2 different patterns to create something similar. But, not everyone is in to hacks. And to be honest, this pattern turned out way better than my hacks. So, when I had the opportunity to test out this pattern, I was extremely excited.

As with all Ellie and Mac patterns, they are beginner friendly. Minimal pattern pieces and step-by-step instructions so that even a beginner can easily complete the dress. The only area that I would say a complete beginner may run into a little snag would be the side gathering, but as long as you follow the instructions and just take your time, it will work out just fine.

The pattern is designed for knit fabrics – you’ll have options such as different sleeve lengths and you can even just do a top if you don’t want a dress. It’s a really quick sew too. Obviously it’s going to take a beginner a little longer, but for a more experienced sewing person, you’re looking at less than 2 hours from cut to finish. The amount of fabric you are going to need is going to be based on the size you are making.

The back does have a back seam that you can chose to eliminate by cutting the back piece on the fold, however, I did notice that surprisingly that seam does make a slight difference in how the dress hugs your body. But it still looks great if you decide to cut on the fold too.

https://www.ellieandmac.com/collections/juniors-womens-patterns/products/womens-tulip-dress-tunic-pattern/?aff=208

I did 3 different versions in 3 difference fabric bases so you can see how different fabrics work with the same pattern. I will say that it really depends on your own comfort though – although there isn’t a huge difference, I do notice that the rayon spandex shows a little more of my “problem areas” than the cotton lycra. Just want to point that out so you consider your fabric choice when making your version.

This version was made in a nice weight double brushed poly from Knitpop. If you haven’t tried Knitpop fabric, I highly recommend you check them out. They have great prices, good fabric, ship quick, and they have a rewards program too: