Small Fry Skinny Jeans - Titchy Threads

Pattern Name:  Small Fry Skinny Jeans

Designer:  Titchy Threads

Pattern Description:  The Small Fry Skinny Jeans offer a classic skinny fit style with enough ease for comfort. They feature front patch pockets, back yokes, back pockets, belt loops and a half fly. A very versatile pattern that can be dressed up for a wedding or down for more casual wear.

Pattern Sizing:  Free only available in 2T, full pattern goes from 0-3 through 12 years!

Purchased here:  I used the free 2T pattern, available here: http://www.titchythreads.com/patterns/small_fry_skinny_jeans

Pattern cost:  $0.00 😊

Size Made:  2T

Model's Measurements: height-36 1/2", chest-19 1/4", waist-18 1/2", hips-20 1/2"

Did it look like the photo/drawing advertised once you were done sewing with it?  Yes!!!  

Dealing with the pattern:  This pattern is lovely to deal with!!  It even features out-cut triangles and top, side, bottom markings like standardpatterns!

Level of difficulty:  Not nearly as bad as you'd think...  An advanced beginner could tackle these jeans. 

Were the instructions easy to follow? Yes!  They were amazing!!  There was one part in sewing the waistband up that was a little foggy but the pictures cleared it right up. 

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?  I love the pattern instructions as well as the actual details involved. They turn out just like little ready to wear jeans while I get the satisfaction of making them. I can't comment about the fit...  More on that in the conclusion section. 

Fabric Used:  Brushed cotton (twill maybe) from Joann's a few years ago. 

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:  No alterations made on this pair - made exactly as the pattern and tutorial describe. 

Would you sew it again?  Eh....  That's a tough one. Regardless of what I decide, I will DEFINITELY be using the instructions from this pattern. They are that great!

 Would you recommend it to others?  Yes!!  

Conclusion:   I knew that making the 2T size might be a stretch. My Mini falls into 18-24 month size for her hips (and even smaller for her waist) but I was hoping the adjustable waist and the fact that we needed the 2T length would make up for it. I am SUPER thank that this pattern was free. I was having a hard time committing to a $10 pattern when I didn't know if I would like the fit or if they would even sew up ok. Jeans look so complicated!!!  In the end, the pattern turned out way too big. I knew it might....  But now I also know that even if I had made a smaller size, I wouldn't like the rise.  As tall and skinny as my girl is, she has a fairly short crotch length. I think I may be better trying another designer's pattern than trying to adjust crotch curve/length and rise on something/someone so little.  

Notes for next time:  Use these sewalong instructions for all the pants!!

Denver Dress tester review

Pattern Name:  Denver Dress and Tunic

Designer:  Blank Slate Patterns

Pattern Description:  features tunic, fitted dress and flared dress options, as well as cowl or flat necklines and two sleeve lengths for choices to be cozy or cool. The princess seams shape every Body. 

Pattern Sizing: XXS (bust 31") to 3X (bust 53")

Purchased here:  http://patternanthology.com

Pattern cost:  as a tester, I did not pay for the pattern. It is currently be sold in a bundle with 3 other patterns for $29.95 (through October 2, 2015)

Size Made:  Medium

Model's Measurements: height- 5' 8", chest-35", waist-28 1/2", hips-38 1/2"

Did it look like the photo/drawing advertised once you were done sewing with it?  Yep!

Dealing with the pattern:  I never have issues putting together or dealing with Melissa's patterns. 

Level of difficulty:  Fairly easy!!  I'd rate it Advanced Beginner; especially since you can use a fairly sturdy knit fabric. 

Were the instructions easy to follow?  Yes!  Straightforward. 

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?  BIG fan!!  I'm 5' 8" tall, 150 lbs.  I fit right below the Medium sizing, but bigger than the small.  I often have issues with my long, muscular arms being too big in relation to other patterns. The sleeves are JUST RIGHT!!!  It makes me so happy!!  I very much like the fit of the front and pocket placement.  The back....  I've got some room there.  I'm sure it is the fault of my "sway back".  One of these days I'll learn how to account for and adjust that.

The dress length is good, but I haven't hemmed it yet.  A 1/2" shouldn't make that much difference.  And, with my choice of a "winter" style dress, I wouldn't want it any shorter.   The cowl neck isn't my favorite part but it's leave-able.  I still need to play with pulling the folded fabric apart so it sits more like the pattern photo. Also, next time I will probably make the cowl in self fabric instead of ribknit.  

Fabric Used:  I think it is a sturdy waffle knit. From JoAnn's. 

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:  none made; cut and constructed exactly as pattern suggests. 

Would you sew it again?  Oh yes. Lots on the horizon. 

 Would you recommend it to others?  100%

Conclusion:   

I literally cannot WAIT to make more versions!!  The fitted dress without pockets is gorgeous and the tunic length with pockets is going to be an everyday staple once the weather turns.  

Cinnabar Sky tester review

Pattern Name:  Cinnabar Sky

Designer:  Golden Rippy

Pattern Description:  The CINNABAR SKY Dress is a knit maxi dress with a crossover front. Featuring a fitted bodice, it is roomy enough for maternity bellies. Options include: discrete nursing openings, short or half sleeves and optional top length. The crossover bodice flatters your curves and hides your postpartum belly.

Pattern Sizing: XXS to XXXL

Purchase here:  http://goldenrippy.com/product/cinnabar-sky-dress-top/

Pattern cost:  $12.00  However, this pattern was provided to me at no cost since I was a tester.

Size Made: Medium

Model's Measurements: height- 5' 8", chest-39", waist-31", hips-39"

Did it look like the photo/drawing advertised once you were done sewing with it?  Sure did!!

Level of difficulty:  Advanced beginner - dealing with knits

Were the instructions easy to follow?  Yes!!  All the kinks have been worked out. 

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?    It looks amazing as a nursing top but you can also top stitch the openings closed and it looks just a fantastic. 

Fabric Used:  Jersey sheets from Target (grey solid) and Cotton Jersey from Colorado Fabrics (print)

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:  None.  I used the nursing openings instructions for both the dress and top versions.

Would you sew it again?  Yes!!  I have a standing request from my sister for more in all colors!

 Would you recommend it to others?  Yes!  A wonderful top and dress and even better for nursing.

Conclusion:   This pattern fits my sister and I differently.  We are roughly the same measurements, but she is a more solid build than I am (broader shoulders, etc).  I have also come to the conclusion through other recent patterns that I need to start sizing down and doing an FBA.

Notes for next time:  Try a size small with an FBA even though the medium doesn't fit poorly.  I'd like to compare the fit between the two. 

Greenstyle Lacy Tank review

This pattern has been on my Wishlist for a LONG time. Somehow it was one of the very first PDF patterns that I came across for women. I fell in love with the high low hem, the hood, the thumb sleeves, all of it.  I haven't had great luck sewing for myself in the past - I always end up with a beautiful garment that just doesn't fit 100% right. I know this is because I need to do adjustments (FBA, round back, etc) and I just don't know how. That's part of what help me off from buying this pattern for forever.  There was finally a sale on Memorial Day and I jumped on it!

Pattern Name:  Lacy Slope (hooded tee or tank)

Designer:  Greenstyle Creations

Pattern Description:  As part of our Bespoke Collection, this trendy and comfortable Hooded T-Shirt is built off of our wildly popular Lacy Slope Tank Top. If you already have the Lacy Slope Tank Top you can just purchase the Add-On Pack. However, if you purchase this pattern, you will get both the Lacy Slope Tank Top and the Lacy Slope Hooded T-Shirt! It is two patterns in one easy package.   Features - high-low hem in three lengths, breast patch pocket, and extra long sleeve options

Pattern Sizing:  Women's XS - 3XL

Purchased here:  https://www.etsy.com/listing/165767310/new-greenstyle-womens-lacy-slope-hooded?ref=shop_home_active_8

 

Pattern cost:  $8.50

Size Made: Medium

Model's Measurements: height-5' 9", chest-38" (D cup), waist-31", hips-39"

Did it look like the photo/drawing advertised once you were done sewing with it?  yes, but the models in the photos are very slender and it doesn't quite look comparable on me.  After adjustments, it may look better, but it doesn't hang the same way on my body (big boobies problems)

Dealing with the pattern:  Unless you want to print out your instructions as well, scroll through the pattern and make note of which pages need to be printed - the pattern is sandwiched inbetween the hooded tee and tank instructions. 

Level of difficulty:  Moderately easy, however there are some parts (binding the neckline) that would put this in the intermediate category. 

Were the instructions easy to follow?  For the most part...yes.  I did find it slightly odd that the instructions for the Hooded tee and the tank were completely separated by the pattern itself.  The directions for binding the neck and arm openings are lacking in the pattern but they have a video posted on their website that helps clear that up. If you are familiar with knit bindings, you may not even noticed that the instructions are lacking. 

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?  I like the options. It can go from summer to winter all day long. Make it fun, make it classy, I'm sure that tank in the right material could even be used in a business casual wardrobe.  I really like that there are hem length options. I chose the intermediate length hem - can't imagine using the original though!!  It would have been above the top of my pants!!  Note: I have a long torso so that may not be the case for everyone. And I think the back of the intermediate is a little long for my taste. 

Fabric Used:  white/bronze/grey leopard print jersey from Joann's. It's thin enough that I need a tank underneath at all times. 

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:  none this go 'round. However after posting pics on their Facebook page asking for sizing help, a few of the ladies suggested I do the full bust adjustment for knits by Maria Denmark.   Here is the link that was recommended and I will give it a go soon!!  http://blog.mariadenmark.com/?p=1046

Would you sew it again?  Yes!  Even with my fit issues, I am dying to so another tank version. When I get the fit better, I'll be making hooded tees left and right - I live in hoodies during the fall and winter. 

 Would you recommend it to others?  Yes, with the note below attached :-)

Conclusion:   Great style, great pattern, but don't jump into your most gorgeous fabric right away. Make a wearable muslin....  Wait, aren't we supposed to do that every time??  Haha!!!

Notes for next time:  Full bust adjustment for knits; intermediate length hem in front graded to standard length hem in the back; try a different binding technique on the neck/arm openings; get the fit right and start making the back blocked with lace; get the fit right and makes lots and lots of hooded tees!

Twirly Skorts review

I love having the chance to test for new-to-me designers. Meghan at The Sewing Geek is no exception. I had a wonderful time testing these Skorts for her and can't wait to sew up her other patterns. She has a wonderful way of describing her construction process. 

Pattern Name: Twirly Skorts

Designer: Sewing Geek

Pattern Description:  The Twirly Skorts sewing pattern is a sweet and simple pattern for knit fabrics. The circle skirt makes it very twirly while the built-in shorts underneath helps keep your little one modest while twirling and playing. The four skirt options and large size range make this a versatile pattern you can use over and over again. You can sew the shorts and skirt separately for even more options.

Pattern Sizing:  3 months - girls 14

Purchased here:  http://www.thesewinggeek.com/sewing-geek-patterns/twirly-skorts-sewing-pattern/

 

Pattern cost:  $7.00

Size Made:  9 months 

Model's Measurements: height-32+", chest-18 1/2", waist-17 1/2", hips-20" with cloth diaper(18 1/4" without)

Did it look like the photo/drawing advertised once you were done sewing with it?  Yes!  Maybe even twirly-ier....  Yep, that's my own word right there :-)

Dealing with the pattern: Be aware that there are 66 pages of the tutorial(needed because there are 4 options for the skirt)!! Do not let this scare you;  I only printed 6 pages. The instructions are great and tell you exactly which pages needed to be printed for which size and style. 

Level of difficulty:  Fairly easy.  I'm noticing a trend here....  All knit patterns are or pretty darn easy. Why did I not know this before????

Were the instructions easy to follow?  Once you get over the anxiety of a bajillion pages of tutorial, yes. The tutorial tells you exactly which steps you need for which version you are making. Just skip through the rest (that was the hard part for me. I like to read EVERYTHING and in this case you truly don't need to).  The wording in the tutorial is very straight forward as well. Very easy to absorb. 

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?  I LOVE LOVE LOVE the circle skirt. I like that there are attached shorts and that the pattern is easy to alter for length. I'm not a huge fan of the shorts on their own but I have yet to find a shorts pattern that I like for Kinley. So it's not the patterns fault....  

Fabric Used:  interlock for waistband and shorts, double sided jersey from Joann's for the skirt

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:  none!!

Would you sew it again?  yes!  Can't wait to make the skirt and shorts seperately. The next time I make the skirt, I will use the 12 month length.  This is not a pattern fault, but due to the fact that I have a very skinny, tall 17 month old. 

 Would you recommend it to others?  Highly recommended!!  Make tons for all the girls you know!

Conclusion:  such a cute twirly skirt and love that it has attached shorts. Now I need to teach my little to spin so we can see it twirl!

Oliver + S Reversible Bucket Hat review

Pattern Name: Reversible Bucket Hat

Designer:  Oliver + S

Pattern Description:  Hats are a must for covering up young, delicate skin. This one has lots of style and sews up very quickly.  You can make it reversible with two favorite fabrics, or you could add a little pocket on the outside and complement it with a fun lining. Make one. Make two. Make enough to coordinate with each of your child’s summer outfits or activities. When making the hat, you’ll sew a curve and apply top- stitching. If you’re relatively new to sewing but have successfully completed one or two other one-scissors projects in this book, you’re definitely ready to take on this one.

 

Pattern Sizing: Extra small (6-12 months/18") - Large (6-8 years/21")

Purchased here:  http://oliverands.com/free-patterns/reversible-bucket-hat/

 

Pattern cost:  FREE!!!!

Size Made: Small (18-24 months) 19"

Model: 16 months old, 18 1/2" head

Did it look like the photo/drawing advertised once you were done sewing with it?  Sure did, well for the most part. I think the ones in the pattern must be bigger because they seem like the brim comes out a little farther. 

Dealing with the pattern:  Just 5 pages to print, very easy to put together. 

Level of difficulty:  Advanced beginner

Were the instructions easy to follow? Yes!  

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?  Loved everything.  Nothing to dislike. 

Fabric Used:  Quilting cotton for both sides

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:  none....  Well, I didn't hand stitch the second cap like the instructions said. I hate hand stitching  and avoid it like the plague, so I just top stitched it :-)

Would you sew it again?  Yep!  As soon as my sissy has her baby and we find out what it is, I'll be making the smaller size for her.  Also, I only did 3 additional rows of stitching on the brim (4 total); next time I'll do six. 

 Would you recommend it to others?  Yes!  Can't beat free!!

Conclusion:  Perfect little unisex bucket hat. Bonus that it's reversible!  Any tips on how to get Miss K to keep it on???

Summer Surprise Dress testing/review

So happy to have had the opportunity to test for new designer Sofilantjes!!  This is a wonderful first pattern from Annemieke and I can't wait to see what else she comes up with!

Pattern Name: Summer Surprise Dress/Tunic/Top

Designer:  Sofilantjes

Pattern Description:  The dress is a a-line above knee length dress/tunic suitable for stretch fabrics 

like knit, jersey and even sweat fabric as long as it has a good stretch. The neck, back and arm band can be made of a good stretching jersey in a contrasting color. Use more or the same color for the bow if you like.

Purchase here: https://www.etsy.com/nl/shop/Sofilantjes  or http://www.craftsy.com/user/3669652/pattern-store

 

Pattern cost: $9.00 - on sale through 5/25/14 for 30% off. 

Pattern Sizing: 6 months - 6 years "normal" and 12 months - 6 years "skinny"

Size Made: 12 month Skinny 

Model's Measurements: height-32", chest-18 1/2", waist-17 1/2", hips-20"

Did it look like the photo/drawing advertised once you were done sewing with it?  Yes!  

Dealing with the pattern:  Different than what I am used to as far as the pattern lines, but easy to put together. You can pretty much put the front and the back together seperately instead of one giant sheet.  This is a plus :-)

Level of difficulty:  Easy!!  It would be a great first knit project for a beginner or a quick sew for a more advanced sewer. 

Were the instructions easy to follow? Yes.  The instructions are adequate without being overly wordy. 

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?  I love the pleat detail on the front and the bow in the back. Perfect details on such a simple sew. I don't particularly like the way the binding is finished in the shoulder seam - I used an alternate method. 

Fabric Used:  cotton jersey and cotton interlock binding

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:  I made tunic length and used an alternate method in the neck binding. 

Would you sew it again?  I will!  I'd love to make some into top length. 

 Would you recommend it to others?  Highly recommended

Conclusion:  I love that there is both a regular width and a skinny version. My child generally ends up in tiny sizes but this skinny variation is perfect!

Notes for next time:  Use a twin needle (or stretch with a single needle and long stitch length) on the neckline top stitching; with the farthest needle hitting a full 1/4" away from the binding edge. 

Also use these pics for bow attachment. 

Women's Prefontaine Shorts testing/review

I had the privilege of testing for Jill at Made with Moxie. I love these shorts!!  I need to buy the matching kids pattern for Miss K :-)

Pattern Name: Womens's Prefontaine Shorts

Designer:  Made with Moxie by Jill Dorsey

Pattern Description:  Prefontaine Shorts for Women are inspired by the running shorts of the 1970s. They feature a retro contrast trim and a comfortable elastic waistband. Front pockets lay flat and smooth against the body.  Back pockets can be a patch or welt style and are designed for you to easily tuck your smart phone away. Two inseam lengths (5” and 1.25”) allow you to stitch up modest 5” inseam shorts or shortie shorts.  

Purchase pattern here:  https://www.etsy.com/listing/192974743/prefontaine-shorts-for-women-pdf-sewing?ref=shop_home_feat_2

Pattern cost:  $10.00

Pattern Sizing: Women's 0-24

Size Made: Women's 4

Model's Measurements: height-5' 8", chest-, waist-33", hips-39" 

Does the finished product look like its supposed to? Yes!

Dealing with the pattern:  15 pages to print and put together.  Seems like a lot for shorts, but it's worth it to have such a large size range. 

Were the instructions easy to follow?  Yes!!  There are some untraditional construction methods but instructions make it a breeze. 

Level of difficulty:  for a women's pattern, very easy!  The hardest part is the bias trim and that is not actually difficult. 

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?  How can you not be head over heels for vanity sizing??  It's wonderful to sew a size significantly smaller than I am used to seeing in patterns. I'm not a huge fan of the front pockets and will make my next pair without (I hink its it's my fabric choice that makes me not like them. Since this I've seen several pair without contrasting trim and it looks SO much better). LOVE the back welt pocket, LOVE the binding trim. Fit is nice but the front rise is too high for me. I'll need to cut it down and grade it about an inch.  I'll also try the exposed sport waistband for that. 

Fabric Used:  flannel and store bought bias tape. 

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:  For this version, none. 

Would you sew it again?  Yes. Will sew it up in ponte Roma, no front pockets with a shorter inseam for workout shorts. 

 Would you recommend it to others?  Yes!!  It's a great easy sew for yourself and the size range is really good.  I love all the other versions I've seen too!!  Such cute quilting cottons are being used. 

Just because, here is my first pair. I made a size 8 (actually 2 sizes bigger than recommended). Why??  Because I am NOT a size 4!  Haha. I regularly wear size 9-11 in ready to wear and I couldn't believe the sizing recommendations.  This is just another lesson in "trust the designer and follow the size chart".  Obviously, these are ginormous and the ones above fit great :-). I find it funny how much larger I look in the panda pair vs. the turquoise ones. Who knew that sewing the wrong size can make you look like different size?!?!?!

Jocole Shoreline Tank review

Pattern Name: Shoreline Tank

Designer:  Jocole

Pattern Description:  A slim-fitting hip-length tank top with dainty straps and 2 delicate rows of ruffles along the neckline. This modern, classic and versatile tank is great for layering and easily goes with skirts, under jumpers or cardigans, or even paired with leggings or jeans. Comfortable enough for everyday play and yet sweet enough for any occasion. Easy tricks for sewing knit fabrics with a basic sewing machine for professional looking results – no serger required, and no amateur zigzags! Made with super comfy knit fabric or refashion some old shirts.

Purchased here: https://www.etsy.com/listing/76360965/shoreline-knit-tank-pdf-sewing-pattern?ref=favs_view_10

Cost of pattern - $8.00 a little expensive but we will get a TON of use out of this one. 

Pattern Sizing: newborn through 5T

Size Made: 18 month

Model's Measurements: height-32", chest-18 1/2", waist-17 1/2", hips-20"

Did it look like the photo/drawing advertised once you were done sewing with it?  Yes, though I omitted the ruffles. 

Dealing with the pattern:  Pretty easy, not many pieces 

Level of difficulty:  Easy, though the binding took some extra time since this was my first time. 

Were the instructions easy to follow? yes. They are a little on the wordy side - there were far more pages of instructions than needed. 

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?  It's easy and looks store bought.  Not a huge fan of the way the binding is done in conjunction with the side seams.  

Fabric Used:  an old tshirt I had from high school. 

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:  Measurements suggest size 12 month, I went one size up so we could get more use out if it. I'm not sure I would like it any smaller than that. omitted the ruffles 

Would you sew it again?  Yes!  I have several other logo tees to upcycle. 

 Would you recommend it to others?  Yes and maybe suggest going to the next size larger. 

Conclusion:  Easy, cheap (fabric wise), awesome!!

Hummingbird Dress Review - tested for Rabbit Rabbit Creations

I LOVE testing for Rabbit Rabbit Creations. Jasmin always has wonderful designs that go together beautifully. So happy I could be a part of the testing process for the infamous Hummingbird Dress. 

Pattern Name: Hummingbird Dress

Designer:  Rabbit Rabbit Creations

Pattern Description:  PDF pattern, Tea length dress with thin straps and elastic back waistband.  Has three different skirt fullness options as well as optional flutter sleeves.  More seen here https://www.etsy.com/listing/187902112/hummingbird-dress-girls-summer-dress-pdf?ref=shop_home_active_5

Pattern cost: $7.00 a GREAT value in my opinion. 

Pattern Sizing: girls' sizes 1-12

Size Made: Size 1 and size 2. Size 1 is a perfect fit, size 2 is a little big and has room to grow.

Model's Measurements: height-32", chest-18 1/4", waist-17 1/2", hips-20"

Did it look like the photo/drawing advertised once you were done sewing with it?  Yep

Dealing with the pattern:  Only 3 pages to print out. Easy to tape together - only front and back bodice provided. Measurements given for straps and skirt pieces. 

Level of difficulty: easy depending in the fabric your are working with. Special occasion fabrics up to difficulty level. 

Were the instructions easy to follow? Amazing!!  This dress in so easy to make and the instructions/photos make even a beginner successful.  The bodice goes together relatively quickly, then you just add the skirt/s. 

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?  I love that there are so many style options for this dress. It can be a super casual, cotton top, or a fancy, flowy tea length dress. Everything in between is possible too!

Fabric Used:  multiple versions made - mostly used quilting weight cotton for the bodice and any combination of quilting cotton, charmuese or chiffon for the skirt. 

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:  Aside from chopping one version down to a top, none.  It doesn't need any alterations!!  Can also be lengthened to a maxi. 

Would you sew it again?  Yes!  

 Would you recommend it to others?  Highly recommended. You need to make some, not one :-)

Conclusion:  This is my new go-to summer top/dress pattern.

This is the Something Special version. It has a two layered, full skirt.  Made of poly chiffon upcycled from a women's dress. 

This is the Dress-up version. I just did one layer skirt in poly charmuese as well as flutter sleeves. I didn't quite understand the flutter sleeve directions during testing so these didn't turn out so well....  I won't give up though. I'll try again soon!

This is the Everyday version. I used quilting cotton for both the bodice and the skirt. I love the way it turned out!