Yes, I had a bit of a set back. As soon as I returned from my lazy holiday in Mexico my back went out. Walking is fine, standing is fine. That’s about it. So … no sitting in my sewing chair. 🙁
I couldn’t help but dream, browse, and plan my future projects though … and I started seriously searching for my DESIGNIN’ DECEMBER outfit. I know DESIGNIN’ DECEMBER is far away yet, but I am not the type of person to leave anything to the last minute.
I started my search looking for designer fashion on Pinterest. I managed to “pin” quite a few favourite dresses and jackets to my DESIGNER FASHION board.
I have already seen sewists on Instagram adding lace collars to their makes, so this design is not that far off.
Here is another simple dress with special neckline.
How about a lace yoke? or appliques?
How about this vintage pattern?
Stolen right from the runway … isn’t this the most exquisite design you have ever seen?
For those of you with the talent to reuse, remake and recycle – how about this design? It’s beyond beautiful!
Then I found THE ONE for me! The beginning of my DESIGNIN’ DECEMBER contribution! This company (zasue.com) makes beautiful Haori jackets. Take a look at their website here.
And again, THIS ONE would look lovely with my Haori jacket. But if I made this one, I would have to alter it to a skirt and a top, instead of the dress. I always gravitate towards making dresses, but I usually only wear skirts and tops. Makes no sense whatsoever! I should make this, but in two pieces. It can be easily done.
Just look at the pleat on the back and the little bow at the top!
Next to search for the perfect fabrics. On the way to Mexico, I made a stop in Langley, B.C. and found this – a blue and cream printed upholstery fabric for my Haori jacket (unknown fibres unfortunately) and a 100% polyester called “Samantha Solids”. A lovely shade of blue, but when I got home, it just seemed a bit lightweight. Then on another road trip I found this 62% polyester/33% rayon Ponti Di Roma. It’s actually a darker royal blue than this photo shows and a heavier weight than the 100% polyester. I think it will be more suitable for a top and skirt.
Now … which patterns? I’ve already made two beach cover ups with this pattern, McCall’s M7200, here and here, so it is familiar to me and would work well for my Haori jacket.
For the dress, I’m going to start with this pattern, McCall’s M7574, but make the dress into two pieces. There are already instructions, etc. to make the top only in this pattern.
When tracing the pattern and cutting the fabric, I used the shape of the top of the dress for my top …
and made the skirt from the shape of the bottom of the dress.
When it came to the pleat in the back of the top, I added an extra inch on to the back seam at the fold line. I’ll show you how it looks when I sew it up. This pattern has the funniest shaped sleeves I have ever seen, but I can already see how they go together.
So, unfortunately, no sewing this last week, but I did trace a few patterns and cut out a few fabrics for future projects, including DESIGNIN’ DECEMBER, standing at the kitchen table!
Have you been thinking about DESIGNIN’ DECEMBER? If you are curious, check it out here and here. Elle Gee Makes and Emma and her Machine have already got their entries finished!
Happy Sewing!
40 Responses to “A bit of a set back …”
I like your choice of designer clothing. You really are organised to be starting now.
I am very interested in the repurposed jacket. Maybe I should have a go at that. I will think about it
Thank you! I find the repurposing to be even more of a challenge than starting with the fabrics, etc. and instructions. I am in awe! We’d love to see your Designer Copy! 🎉💃🕺🎊
I will think about it and see what I can come up with
😃👍
So glad you had such a wonderful Mexican vacation! But I’m sorry to hear about your naughty back. Hoping it’s on the mend by now. I’m very impressed with your attitude, and how you’re keeping your sewing mojo even while incapacitated. (I had to sigh when you mentioned that you’re not one to wait till the last minute. That’s what I do every single time!! Someone needs to give me a swift kick.) Always look forward to DD, to see how you make your copy (it’s always so good) and all the contributors. Fingers crossed I can do it this year. 🙂 Take care Linda.
Thank you for the nice thoughts. Join in! Your COPY doesn’t have to be elaborate, just copy something you would like to have. Cheers!
I hope your back is feeling better! I am just in awe of your organization. The colours you have selected are just beautiful.
I’ve just been able to get back to sewing (sitting down for a few hours straight). Thanks for asking! I don’t FEEL organized but sometimes I just have to stop what I’m doing and organize! 😂
Sorry to hear about your back. That’s rubbish. Hope it gets better soon. I love your ‘Designin’ December’ challenge (although I have yet to take part) and can’t wait to see the entries. I may have to pinch that beautiful dress in your post – the deep green one with the neckline. Stunning! Looking forward to seeing your make take shape. Looks like it’s going to be good!
Lots of sewists have their eyes on the green one. It is popular! Maybe you should sew it up for DESIGNIN’ DECEMBER! Thanks for the good wishes!
I hope your back is feeling better. That’s a bummer not being able to sew. 😔 Well the dress that got my attention was the 2nd from the top–the green with the beads at the neckline and the model is holding a light-blue clutch. Get better soon.
Thanks for asking, it’s getting there! I’m doing exercises now at least. I agree, that green was truly beautiful!
Wishing you a speedy recovery – I’m looking forward to seeing how this project turns out, too.
Thank you! It’s not due until (DESIGNIN’) DECEMBER so I’ve got lots of time! 😃👍
Am a little late here catching up on your blog but hope your back is better. I think another holiday would tune it up perfectly but less partying with Jerry will probably help. I saw all your material first hand and it is beautiful, can’t wait to see the finished project.
Thanks Rose! Yes that Jerry is a brat, isn’t he. Presently he is hanging on my bulletin board at work. I’m giving him a taste of “real life”! (His arm is still bandaged up and broken too.)
Linda I hope your back is better now. I liked all of your choices for Designing December. Can’t wait to see which one(s) you finish.
PS. I see the Minion made a cameo appearance. 🙂
It’s getting there – thanks for asking! Seems the only thing I have difficulty doing now is cleaning out the litter boxes! And Jerry the Minion had so much fun in Mexico with me he keeps following me around now!