Canadian PDF Pattern Designer Tour - Bombshell Swim Suit & Giveaway!

I'm diving into Summer 2015 with a brand new swimsuit 

I made for myself!  

It was an easy decision to choose the Bombshell 

by Closet Case Files.  

I needed a challenge -- 

wearing a one-piece swimsuit is something I never do.  

I prefer bikinis.  

Imagine my surprise after almost 50 years of wearing bikinis 

(my dad bought my first one) . . . . it ain't so bad!  

And, I am totally comfortable!

The day this pattern was released in 2013, it was an immediate hit.  

And the next morning, Heather Lou posted the first of several installments of the

Bombshell SewAlong which offers all the information you need from choosing your fabrics to completing your suit.  There's also a gallery with links to several hacks by bloggers.

I did a couple of things differently:

I used my magical ruffler foot to gather the sides.  

I cut a ribbon the same measurement as the lining pieces 

to use as a guide.

And added FOE inside my straps, changed the tie-straps to secured straps.

(I needed more support than tying straps halter-style)

I also changed the construction at the crotch to conceal the seams of the liner and swimsuit fabric, which simply means I completed the crotch seams individually, lined them up, wrong sides facing, and stay-stitched the two fabrics together prior to placing the leg elastic.

Clear directions, good design.  

This was my first pattern by Closet Case Files.  I've heard about this pattern since its release, but never purchased it because it was a one-piece swimsuit.  I should've just tried it anyway because now I think maybe I can wear these!

The fabric I used from Joann Fabrics is not heavy when wet (even with a lining).

This pattern recreates the vintage look I like -- and with a little sewing magic to make the suit my own, this is a flattering style for me and I'm very pleased!

I'm working on a maternity one for my daughter.  

Instead of straps, I created a halter by joining the two triangles behind the neck where you would have tied them.  I created a "tankini" by cutting the pattern piece just above the leg opening/crotch.  The back was made using the lining pattern piece.  All I need to do now is make some bottoms.

 As many times as she goes to the potty, 

she's gonna need easy access . . . .

.

Closet Case Files is giving away Two Patterns of Choice to the Winner of this Rafflecopter:
(June 24-27, 2015)
a Rafflecopter giveaway


You also have an opportunity to win several other prizes from the Tour designers and sponsors.

To learn more, Click Here.

To view the complete Blog Tour, which includes interviews with the designers showcased, use the following links:

June 1 - 3 Gracious Threads - InterviewCreative Bug - The Wholesome Mama - stitched by crystal

June 4 - 6 Jalie – InterviewShaffer Sisters – Call Ajaire – hibbadoray

June 8 – 10 Thread Theory – InterviewHandmade Boy – Rebel & Malice – Sew Out of Control

June 11 - 13 Audrey & Tiffany – InterviewAll Things Katy! – Not Sew Fast – Conversas de Hermana

June 15 – 17 E+M Patterns – InterviewFrom-a-Box – Made by Sara – Climbing the Willow

June 17 - 19 Victory Patterns – InterviewSwoodson Says – Thread Riding Hood 

– Sprouting JubeJube

June 18 – 20 FABulous Home Sewn – InterviewCreate3.5 – Calm and Carrion – Stitches by Laura

June 22 – 24 Filles a Maman – InterviewPattern Revolution – PhatQuarters – 

sewstarly – House of Estrela

June 24 – 26 Closet Case Files – Interview, gloria june – Rebel & Malice – Sew Far North

June 25 – 27 Elegance & Elephants – InterviewSprouting JubeJube – AmandaRose – Mae & K

June 29 - 30 Lulu & Celeste: new makes and a round up post

July 1st Last day to enter Giveaways and Final Round up Post!

Happy Sewing!

gloria june

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

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