Mark your calendars! Women's PDF Sewing Patterns #bundleUP 2015 Starts May 1!

Pattern Revolution has put together another bundle of PDF patterns for Women!  Mark your calendar for MAY 1, 2015.  

See Previews of the PDF Patterns included 

AND,

You can also win it before everyone else has a chance to buy it here:  WIN IT!  

Here's a look at a few of the patterns I've tested for the #bundleUP.  

Beginning May 1, 2015, use this link to purchase your bundle:  

BUNDLEUP

Happy Sewing!

gloria june

MCM Studio Designs Spring 2015 Blog Tour - Estherlyn Jumper

Happy Spring!  Yes, its Spring here in Louisiana . . . and to celebrate, we've joined the MCM Studio Designs Blog Tour to show you the Estherlyn's Jumper.

At the end of the tour, MCM Studio Designs will give away a pattern of their choice to 5 different winners.  Just comment both on the Merry Church Mouse blog and on one of the blogs that you visit on the tour, including mine!

Use Code SPRINGSALE25 at the ETSY SHOP HERE or visit the CRAFTSY SHOP HERE where patterns are already reduced by 25%.  

Special Thanks to Gabrielle Champion (who will become my daughter-in-love in 53 days!) 

for the wonderful photography of her friend's two little beauties, Ella & Sarah.

I haven't met Ella & Sarah.  I have only their measurements.  The fit was exactly as I planned:  

Ella is sporting a vintage-look length which gives her the freedom to run, jump and play.  

I love the "just above the knee" look of yesteryear.  

Ella is a size 4 in width, and size 5 in length, but I decided to make it all size 4, 

hoping for exactly the result we see here!  

Sarah just turned 1, but her measurements in width fit the size 2.  

I considered that she may be on the ground more often than her sister, with her curiosities getting the better of her, so I went for a look that would cover her knees if she gets down in the dirt/grass to get closer to the all the little things someone her age tries to put in their mouth,

I'm very happy with the results!

What's included in the PDF Pattern:

• Sizes 3m - 10 years
• Line Drawings
• How to take Measurements
• Size Charts
• Finished Garment Measurements
• Materials List
• Fabric Yardage Requirements
• Printing and Assembly Instructions for the pattern pieces
• Tiled Pattern Pieces (you can select to print the lines for one size, many, or all)
• "Before You Sew" Tips as well as more Tips as you go along!
• Numbered, Step - by - Step Instructions
• Links to tutorials and other goodies related to this pattern

You can purchase the pattern HERE or at the Etsy or Craftsy Shops listed above at 25% off throughout the tour.

and, at the end of the week, you have a chance to win your choice of Merry Church Mouse (MCM Studios Designs) Patterns by entering a comment on the blogs in the tour.

I love using my embroidery machine to embellish -- 

and there's just enough room on the bodice to personalize.

Fabrics used in these jumpers were purchased from Ebeth Designs on Etsy.

Moda Domestic Bliss

SMART TIP:  

Use Iron-on Adhesive or Fusible Tape to stabilize ric rac or ribbons (instead of pins) before you sew!  (see previous post HERE).

Another SMART TIP:  

Purchase buttons in bulk when they're on sale.  

I have many colors and sizes in simple buttons 

(I don't just hoard fabric).   

Sometimes, a simple button is just right. 

Be sure to follow along on the tour and tune in to the Merry Church Mouse blog daily for links to the bloggers included.  Remember to enter a comment with your contact information for a chance to win a pattern of your choice!  Good Luck!

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

Straight Stitch Capitol Hill Dress & Tunic Review x2

Hey y'all . . . 

hop on over to PatternRevolution.com 

for a quick look at Straight Stitch Designs' 

Capitol Hill Dress & Tunic

Its a two-fer as team member Lisa also reviewed the pattern!

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

Lily Giggle New Zinnia for girls - Its all about the petals!

This post is cross-posted at Pattern Revolution.  Stop by here to see another reviewer's look at the New Zinnia!

I'm Gloria, and I'm a sewaholic . . . yep, I took on this review and its deadline before I got sick, and started sewing while I had the flu. But as we say here in Louisiana, on any occasion, rain or shine: "Laissez les bon temps rouler!" (Let the good times roll!)

With Mardi Gras just around the corner, I had my inspiration to try out the New Zinnia by LilyGiggle. Lucky for me, I had just straightened my fabric hoard and found Robert Kaufman's Celebrate Seuss! Tossed Characters fabric smiling at me. It is time to celebrate Seuss-style. I searched the internet for an embroidery design and found the perfect one!

And baby sister gets a coordinating tunic too, with a Mardi-Gras jester hat on the cat-in-the-hat . . . and a little fur for her curious senses.

This pattern is all about the Petals. Yep, gorgeous petals at the end of your ¾ or long sleeves. Choose A-line or Empire waist in tunic, above knee or below knee lengths in sizes 2 – 12. (I added buttons to my petals as decorations, mimicking the circles in the skirt fabric.)

First things first:

• $9.50 USD, via PayPal, purchased here:  New Zinnia; 
• Fabric(s):  Knit for the A-line; All Knit or Knit & Woven for the gathered Empire waist;
• Layered Printability – choose to print only the size(s) you need; 4 – 5 pattern pieces (short sash is optional);
• Imperial Size Measurements, Finished Garment Measurements, and Fabric Requirements are all provided in charts;
• Woven skirt portion and Sash is cut following a Length x Width Chart (no pattern piece);
• 3/8" Seam Allowance included in pattern;
• Quick Sew Instructions (for those who usually skim the tutorial/instruction part);
• No cutting chart for neckband. Instead, the designer's preferred method of determining band length & width are provided;
• Approximately an hour and a half sew;
• Intermediate+ sewist (neckband*)

I'm rating this pattern more suited to an Intermediate+ sewist because of the neckband: No measurements are provided. Instead, the designer provides you with photographs and a step-by-step tutorial on her preferred method of determining the size and fit. This can be a bit intimidating for a beginner.  I would prefer a cutting chart so that I can take advantage of the "quick sew" list by quickly cutting my fabric pieces and go straight to sewing.

I was glad to see the section on how to trace your pattern pieces onto freezer paper and then iron onto your fabric. I forget about this fantastic method and I'm glad it is included for those of you who haven't tried it yet.

The petals are my favorite part! In my state, I struggled to make sure the petals were trimmed perfectly, continuing to cut round and round . . . until I trimmed them too much. Sometimes folks, we need to just let it go . . . . J.

Happy Sewing!
gloria june


Now, for the photo bombs!

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