A modern princess dress for you by Greenstyle Creations (and a tip for hemming knits)

Inspired by the stylish #princesskate, Greenstyle Creations Katie Dress & Peplum PDF Sewing Pattern for Misses is here just in time for your Spring wardrobe.  

Greenstyle is one of my favorite pdf pattern designers.  The patterns fit my body comfortably; are quick sews; and are trendy without being complicated.  

• Regular price $9.00, Available today only for $7.00;
• Misses Sizing XXS - 3XL (size chart on website to view prior to purchase)
• Knit fabric
• 3/8" Seam Allowance 
• Slim/Fitted Design
• Skirt portion has two variations and lengths
• Sleeve options are short or 3/4
• Peplum option in two styles
• 11 Step construction
• Color Coded Nested Pattern Pieces, No Trim Assembly
• Fabric Yardage Chart, Suggested Cutting Layout & "Pages to Print" chart 

I was surprised that I would like this dress.  I don't often make a fitted garment following the sizing provided -- I like to size up so I have comfort, but still a hint of shape.  When I participate in testing though, I'm committed to following directions and that means making my size . . . . and I am comfortable!

If you're comfortable with sewing knits, or want to give this style a try, I do recommend the pattern. The steps are clear and you'll be finished with this dress before you know it.  Quick, fashionable, and made with your own sewing magic.  

I chose to make the A-line skirt and chose to cut the length between the regular and long version (the magic of making your own clothes!)  For me, that made me feel elegant and sexy at the same time. 

I ordered this fabric from Intrepid Thread a few weeks before while it was on sale.  

It is Art Gallery's Petal and Plume Knit and it is luscious.  

Written Instructions are provided to lengthen/shorten the dress. If you need to visualize this process, I have a smart tip here (posted previously).

I chose to gather with a traditional long stitch instead of using my ruffle foot.
The gathering at the bodice is what makes this dress stand out.

A look at the back neckline (minus my long red hair!)

There are photos of the peplum at the website and also lots of gals will be sharing their Katie creations in the FaceBook group here.  You'll find out about all the other patterns offered by Greenstyle (women, men & children), sewing support, inspiration and can chat with the designer of Greenstyle Creations.  

HOW TO Quickly Hem Knits (or cheat if you prefer)

If I'm in a hurry, or in this case, don't have navy blue thread for my coverstitch nor my sewing machine, try Pellon products.  My secret cheat.  

I placed tape all around the raw edge of the fabric, removed the paper backing, then folded the fabric over.  Press with the iron and you're done!

This Seam Tape is permanent, but you can still stitch over it -- it won't hurt your needle.  Just press it in place with your iron (make sure you follow the settings appropriate for the type of fabric you are using).  

Happy Sewing,

gloria june

Seamingly Smitten - Drop Shoulder Top for Misses Releases Today & Coupon Code!

Seamingly Smitten, a PDF pattern source for the beginner sewist, releases a new knit top for Misses

Jenny Hall, owner and pattern designer at Seamingly Smitten, thoughtfully and purposefully designs PDF sewing patterns for beginners.  She also offers a blog with tips, tricks and tutorials for everyone!

Join the Seamingly Smitten Sewing Pattern FaceBook page for more inspiration, chat with other beginners, and learn more about Seamingly Smitten patterns available.  

I tested the Drop Shoulder Top for Misses which is available now here on Etsy.  This is a comfortable knit shirt that is easy to cut, construct & sew together.  Learn how to sew with knits and add binding to a neckline with this easy to follow pattern.

• $8.00, available today for 50% off with code SAVE50;
• Knit fabric;
• Petite, regular and tall cutting lines;
• Hi-Lo option;
• 3/4 or long sleeves;
• Instructions are numbered, so you can mark your steps as you sew;
• Sizes are nested in 3 pattern pieces; 
• 18 pages to print & line up (no trimming pages or matching lines to assemble pattern);
• Beginner Friendly

I used fabric from "Spot The Bolt" tables at Hancock Fabrics.  Saw this lovely floral and had to have it for this top.  I paid $2 a yard!  Spot the Bolt is my first place to look in the stores . . . those clearance items can have hidden gems!

Here's my comfy new top!  

Start shopping now and have a look at the variety of patterns for beginners available!  Don't forget to use code SAVE50 for 50% off your purchase today.    

Happy Sewing,

gloria june

Sofilantjes Patterns - Otium Sweater Blog Tour and Giveaway!

Welcome to another stop on the Sofilantjes Otium Sweater Blog Tour & Giveaway!  Details for the giveaway and a look at Mommy & Me versions are here!

I knew the perfect family to gift the girls and women's versions:  My good friend Nicole and her little girls, Ava & Allison.  And there's a surprise for her friends later on . . . . 

During the tour,  the Otium individual girls' or individual women's patterns are 20% off and the Otium Bundle (includes both girls' and women's sizes) is 30% off, no coupon code needed!

There is also a way to win some patterns:  A total of 12 patterns will be given away to one reader -- enter the giveaway for your chance to win!   Here are the sponsors:  

First, let's look at the Pattern:

Its a lot to print, tape and cut, but well worth the end result.  In fact, for me, having the range of sizes that are available in both girls and women's sizes is a godsend since there's already demand in my family for shirts!  

So I've cut out all pattern pieces to the largest size, and I'll trace what I need when I need it.  

(I usually hang the full printout on a pants hanger in the closet, but this is easier for me as some pieces don't need to be traced, they can be folded at the size to cut)


To be honest, I didn't want to give this shirt away after I made it.  Its an awesome design.  I made the low back, bow option for all three, but there are several more options available in the pattern.

And ladies, if you're expecting, going one size up gave Nicole enough room for her growing baby bump.  

Surprise!!!  I have another (adopted) grandchild on the way!!!

I love the fabric I found at JoAnn's.  

There was a sale on all knits in their Doodles Collection, and I had a coupon for 20% off my total purchase.  Couldn't pass that up!

Nicole's sweater fabric can be found here:  http://www.joann.com/doodles-collection--sofia-reverse-sweater-knit-big-dot-fabric/13421987.html

For the girls, a coordinating fabric with woodland creatures, from the Doodles Sofia collection. 

Sewing it up:

I've been sewing for quite some time (30+ years), so sewing up Nicole's shirt took about 30 minutes.  
I believe, if you're comfortable with knits, you can do it in an hour or so.  Maybe 2  nap times, after you've had your lunch, and time to clean up the kiddos mess from the morning.  The girls' versions can be done in the same amount of time.  In fact, if you do not chose the low back, bow option, you will cut 15 minutes from your sew time.  

Always remember that the time it takes me to sew can be very different from how long it takes you --  I don't have any kiddos running around anymore (yep, I'm a long-distance grandma).  Your busy schedule may interrupt your precious sewing time, limited space, limited time . . . but really, this pattern is very well written, the pieces all fit together very well, and the design is made with great construction techniques.  However long it takes you -- you'll be very pleased with the pattern overall!

Then there's the front pocket option.  That can add another 15-30 minutes to your sew time, but worth it.  

Looking at the girls' fabric, I decided they needed some woodland creatures to put in their pockets. Thankfully, Stitched By Crystal had a free Fox Pattern, which I made in a couple different ways, even shrunk the pieces to 50% to make a little fox for the baby!  (just a representation for the girls, as you shouldn't give babies buttons to pull off!)

You can find Crystal's FREE Fox Softie Pattern here:

Stitched By Crystal Stuffed Fox

I used the same pattern to make a raccoon (following the look in the girls' fabric), a Fox, and also reduced the pieces by 50% to make the little fox.

Thanks Crystal!

My Recommendation:  

With so many options -- Short Hemmed Sleeve, 3/4 cuffed Sleeve, Long Cuffed Sleeve, Low Back, High Back, Bow -- you'll get a lot for your money!  The pattern covers all seasons.  Its a good investment!  I love it, and you will too!  Anytime you're in need of help or inspiration, just look at the pattern piece for help:  

Pattern Support!

Right there on your pattern piece is an email address and link to the Sofjilantjes Facebook Group Page.  There you'll find all the inspiration and help you need!

Don't forget to visit all of the inspirational Bloggers from the tour:  

Monday, January 26th

Huisje Boompje Boefjes - Pienkel - Straight Grain

Tuesday, January 27th

From a Box - Shaffer Sisters - Friends Stitched Together

Wednesday, January 28th

Mie Katoentje - Lulu & Celeste - Rebel & Malice - Work, Pray, Sew

Thursday, January 29th 

Sew Starly - The Berry Bunch - Sprouting JubeJube - Mllikepoinen

Friday, January 30th

Rebekah Sews - Gloria June -  Sew Out of Control - Jaime Sews

Saturday, January 31st

LisaLisa Designs - Vaahtokarkkimonsteri - DIY Crush - Unikuun Terapiahuone - Golden Rippy

And now, onto the Giveaway! Good Luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Extraordinary Girl by Filles a' Maman, Its not another ordinary t-shirt!

This review is cross-posted at PatternRevolution.com  Be sure to stop by there to see another reviewer's look at this pattern as well!

 
I found Extraordinary Girl to be very charming and a creative inspiration. I was able to do some #scrapbusting and try out the popular "fabric panel" craze with this pattern.

The boat-neck design, combined with lapped neck binding, brings a welcome change to the everyday T-shirt, together with a forgiving neckline allowing for a more comfortable on and off experience.

 
A week before I began this review, I received my order of princess fabric panels from Eurogirls! While they washed & dried, I looked through my favorite collection of Doodles knits from JoAnn (so very soft and cuddly!) and my knit remnant bucket (fabulous finds in the remnant bins of any fabric store at deeply discounted prices).

I had Extraordinary fun with color . . .

• Price: $9.79, payable via PayPal, available in English or French language versions
   
• Sizing: 12/18 months – 14 years (19.5" – 31" chest measurement)
   
• Boat-neck, hi-low hem, long or ¾ sleeve
   
• Mommy & Me is available! (purchase a separate pattern in women's sizes or the Extraordinary Girl Combo which includes both women & girls sizing)
   
• Designed for knit fabrics
   
• Printing option includes the ability to print "layers" (choose a specific size(s) to print); 12 pages to print, 7 pattern pieces to cut, including a functional front pocket.
   
• Cutting layout graphics are provided for a single color or color blocked top.
   
• Imperial and Metric fabric requirements are provided as separate charts. A Size Chart and Finished Length Chart is included to guide you in determining appropriate size
   
• Lengthen/shorten graphic instructions provided
   
• Confident Beginner Friendly!
  
   

Once you print and cut the pattern pieces, you'll be able to put this shirt together in just under an hour. With each one you make, the process will go even faster. The instructions are written thoughtfully; and, together with impressive hand-drawn graphics, you'll appreciate the smooth construction technique.
I love the length—and, that the hi-lo hem is not a dramatic drop. I made no adjustments to either top and found that the sizes I selected based on measurements made a perfect fit.

I definitely recommend this pattern for your little ones! I'm going to make the women's version and am confident that I will love that one too.

New Year, new style . . . be Extraordinary!

 
Happy Sewing,
gloriajune