Stitch and bitch thread #8. It’s all starting to unravel

[NutellaEllaElla]

Welcome back and welcome for the first time to any newbies. As we go back into autumn/winter mode, sewing days are more and more appealing as the wind gales outside. I enjoyed looking back over the last thread, there were so many beautiful patterns (so little time), such beautiful makes, that thread is an absolute goldmine for inspiration. Also such wisdom from you lovely lot! Thank you. I couldn't do it without you actually as no one around me sews and you have imparted such great advice, hints and tips.

@PickAChew
@kittykarate
@TragicMuse
@SBAM
@pastabest
@Jins
@Blackamericanonosugar
@CrimsonAlligator
@SleepingisanArt
@dubyalass
@Brefugee
@InMySpareTime
@Rosenspants
@rivercobbler
@Karatema
@bookbook
@Sewingdufus
@FletchingStraight
@SideWonder
@CarolynKnappShappy
@Chewbecca
@eldorado02
@PrincessofWellies
@123ZYX
@Storynanny1
@Tinuviel
@Wildernesstips
@Dellabob123
@florentini
@longpathtohappiness
@twobluechickens

I’m definitely going to sew something today. I’m going to try to clear my biggish remnants by the end of the year. I’ll probably end up with loads of ogdens but so be it

I've redone my Philippa waistband and added patch pockets - the fit is now rather snug but vastly improved and I'm hoping they will loosen with wear. Going to have to do the waistband button hole by hand because my machine just said NOPE, too thick.

the more sleeves you do the easier it gets (as with most things. I think the key is not to rush, make sure you have put all the markings in and double check matching the points.

And use a ham for the pressing, it really makes a difference.

But it is a faff and i don't like doing it at all.

I live setting in sleeves but sometimes they take agesDo you find a ham makes a difference and as better than a hot iron and pressing cloth? Is a ham worth the cost, I suppose I’m really asking.

Also, any recommendations for really removable marking pens? I’m on a sewing hag and am finding my marking pencils and even my tailor’s chalk not quite precise enough for some tailoring markings I need to make. I’ve never used the new fangled washable markers? Any tips or recommendations? I’m making a wool winter coat so won’t be washing it …

I love my hams, well worth the money. I use a chalk pen that washes out but could do with a much finer one. I saw someone using one - think it was Kittenish Behaviour on YouTube - which was like a retractable pencil. I'll see if I can find one online.

I use air erasable fabric pens for fine work . Just check to see how long it lasts - usually plenty of time , but sometimes it erases in a blink of an eye , depending on the material

I use crayola washable markers. So far.no disasters

Oh this is so helpful. Thank you!

I’ve banned myself from buying new fabric (my stash will keep me going for the next 10 years at least!) but I can buy haberdashery!

Haha, loophole

I use friction pens, the ink irons away.

The hams are good because they are small and you can usually fit a sleeve round them to press right into the seams without flattening everything

I made the Minerva Savannah dress with some cheap green/gold velvet from pound fabrics.

Pattern is quite nice but they seemed to make the pockets a bit complex and I need to recheck my pattern trace as the arm bands (and to a lesser extent, the neck band) seem too long.

The velvet was occasionally a bit squirmy. The green tinge sn't as obvious in the photo of the dress but you can see it in the reverse of the fabric.

Also tried out one of those magnetic seam allowance markers - great!

oooh that looks lovely - just right for a CHristmas dress with thick back tights & high heels!

I love my magnetic seam guide @kittykarate. I’ve seen a different one on FB recently which looks as if it holds the fabric down as well but I can’t find it anywhere else and I’m never sure about FB adverts. If I do it’ll be on my wish list.

I managed another self drafted tank yesterday in black rib jersey which is as close as I’ll get to the original. I found a great remnant of striped shirting and I’m now looking for a pattern. I thought about Remy but I doubt the stripes will line up. Mind you they wouldn’t if I bought it ready made so might just do it.

I

Hi, sorry to butt in in the middle of the thread.

I have a feeling that one of you clever people, when asked about how to get better at sewing in general, said to sew things from [X brand] pattern company. I think it was a brand which specifically sells patterns for children’s clothing.

If anyone remembers making that recommendation I would be immensely grateful to know the brand!

Alternatively, can anyone suggest a simple dungarees pattern with reliable sizing, for a baby around 8 months to 1 year old?

I would like to have a go at making clothes for a friend’s baby, but don’t live nearby so I can’t just draw around one of baby’s spare sleepsuits to get an idea of the size.

Thank you VERY much!

Hi @Ingefae - I can recommend the patterns at Waves and Wild
For easy sewing , using a stretch material ( very forgiving for size ) I use this pattern https://www.wavesandwild.com/shop/over-it-alls-ww/ if you want a more traditional dungaree in a woven ( non stretch) then there are 2 available - here is the one https://www.wavesandwild.com/shop/heyday-dungarees-child/

these are the ones I made for my twin granddaughters ( you dont have to do poppers around the crotch )

@Ingefae I'm a big fan of Puperita patterns, they are exceptionally well drafted and simple to sew. Lots of options for dungarees.
https://puperita.com/product-category/baby-girl/rompers-dungarees-all-in-ones-baby/

Thank you both, those look like just the right sort of thing.

Btw bookbook that dragon print is so cute! It makes me think of imagination and wonderful storybooks.

My teen DD wants me to make her a dress in this style (pic). I've looked for a pattern but can only find one on Etsy that's for stretch & so doesn't need a zip, not very skilled at them & never tried an invisible one before. Thing is it's £16 for a download & then I'll have to pay for printing & postage. Id much rather a paper pattern so then I know all costs upfront, I buy & it's done.

Can anyone recommend me nice fairly straightforward pattern?

I haven't seen an exact match, but maybe https://www.ellieandmac.com/products/anticipation-dress-pattern?_pos=28&_fid=a553254d5&_ss=c could be OK?

@kittykarate maybe.... slightly different sleeve but it may appeal. I'll ask! Thanks

Not a v-neck but probably quite appealing to teens: https://vikisews.com/vykrojki/dresses/marilyn-dress/

This one is v-neck and you could amend the sleeves/length. Paper pattern. thefoldline.com/product/iliana-dress/

@twobluechickens I saw that vikisews pattern but she's only just a teen so whereas she'd love it I thought the open back a tad too old for her yet. Don't know if there's a way around it but I'm not experienced enough yet I think.
The Foldline sadly doesn't have the bell sleeve which is the main thing for her. Thanks though