New French Curves

I've had this ruler for years.  It has cracks here and there, a melted section from my iron, but I love it; mainly, because I've had it forever, and I can see through it.  I can't trace patterns without it.  Sadly, I accidently dropped it a month ago, and the top broke clean in half.  I've look around at the local sewing stores and was surprised to find that it is not carried.  Shows how times have changed.   I placed clear tape on both side of the cracks and it works just fine.

I received these two lovely rulers for Christmas, so I promptly placed the old one in the trash.  As I passed my sewing studio, I saw it sticking out of the basket.  I felt really sad that I discarded this faithful tool so casually.  I just had to pull it back out.  I am fortunate enough to own three french curves.

Official Start of SWAP

Today is the first official day of SWAP 2011.  It takes great dedication to complete this contest.  I had great hopes of having almost two dresses completed by the end of the year, but life and the holidays got in the way along with a cold, so that goal is not likely to happen. 

Today, I am working on tracing Vogue 7609 and placed a fabric order with Vogue Fabrics.  I am taking one day at a time, and hope to post my progress weekly.

My first step with Vogue 7609 is to make the pattern larger.  I first trace the original pattern pieces to preserve the pattern.  These vintage patterns look different. 

There is no writing on the pattern pieces.  Seam allowances are included, but you have to match the geometric symbols.  You also have to reference other sewing sources.  This pattern mentions a "gusset", but is not specific.  Luckily, I own a couple of vintage sewing books.

I began the enlargement process vertically on the top by taking a measurement from one bust point to another and adjusting the pattern accordingly by placing the pattern straight on grain and cutting from top to bottom.  Whatever is added to the front, I duplicate in the back.  Next measurement is bust circumfrence, adding two inches for ease, adjusting equally front and back.  I try to work around dart positions.  Next measurement is waist.  These vintage patterns have pretty tight waist lines.  I took out the side curves.  Final check is sleeve circumference. 

Grandson's Hat & Socks

I finished these two Christmas gifts in the nick of time to be wrapped for Christmas.  The baby socks were really easy and making them helped me understand what I need to do to finish the gingerbread socks.  The hat is super soft and is a practice item for a spring Aran knit sweater I want to make for my grandson.

A Photo of The Blue Striped Shirt

I joined my DH on a business trip to LA.  As Christmas presents to two DSs and one lovely Daughter-in-Law in other states, we had them join us.  What an amazing time we all had.  I brought the blue striped shirt with me, and a measuring tape for an arm length (35 inches) for a long sleeved shirt in the future.  The shirt is loved and appreciated and appears to be an all around good fit.  Here the unsuspecting model is in our hotel and on the Queen Mary.

On one of our tours around the city, I saw Mood Fabrics, but stayed away.  I am trying hard to stay dedicated to not buying more fabric until I use up a substantial amount of what I already have.  On a prior trip, I managed a visit to the Garment District.  What an experience.

SWAP 2011 - Knit Top

I rarely sew with knits, and I have no good reason for explaining that.  I even have a serger.  I usually use my serger to finish off woven seams.  I can't recall ever making anything from lace.  This SWAP piece will use both techniques ~ knit and lace. 

Pattern:               Simplicity 6703 View1.

Description:         Top stitched top has scoop neckline, lace inset
                           at yoke, and extended shoulders forming cap
                           sleeve. 

Fabric:                 Outter top:  black stretch lace purchased from
                                             Denver Fabrics, Denver, CO.
                           Top Lining:  nude strech fabric purchased
                                             on-line from Emma One Sock.

New Techniques:  Sewing with knits.
                           Sewing with lace.