tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4194957818287369082024-03-05T19:03:02.588+07:00Notionally BetterAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06923857362067010449noreply@blogger.comBlogger66125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-419495781828736908.post-92204146388885587272014-12-09T10:49:00.001+07:002014-12-09T10:49:38.349+07:00Flat Bottomed Flos<ul class="entry-meta fade" style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: 'Droid Sans', 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 1.4rem; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; margin: 0.714em 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 14px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 1.5em;">I've just posted this over at my new address </span></ul>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Droid Sans', 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">Like many others I was very excited to see Style Arc release this pattern and I am very pleased to say that it has lived up to expectation.</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Droid Sans, Trebuchet MS, Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;"><br /></span></span><div class="entry-content" style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: 'Droid Sans', 'Trebuchet MS', Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 1.4rem; line-height: 1.5em; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0.814em 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
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<a href="https://notionallybetter.files.wordpress.com/2014/12/imgp3445_fotor.jpg" style="border: 0px; color: #ec8500; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><img alt="IMGP3445_Fotor" class=" wp-image-397 aligncenter" height="452" src="https://notionallybetter.files.wordpress.com/2014/12/imgp3445_fotor.jpg?w=285&h=452" style="border: 4px solid rgb(217, 216, 187); clear: both; display: block; height: auto; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; max-width: 100%; padding: 0.071em;" width="285" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 1.5em;">First I made a pair of shorts in the same blackish denim that I used for my Barb jeans. After wearing these for a while I decided that the only change needed was to take 1.5cm from the centre front down to nothing at the side seams. (Or what would be the side seams if they weren’t moved forward as they are on the Flos.) This is not because the front crotch length is too long (that fit was great from the start) but because I am very short waisted and the waistband was creasing and folding over.</span></div>
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As a a comparison here are the Barbs next to the Flos so that you can see just how much less fabric there is under the bum.</div>
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<a href="https://notionallybetter.files.wordpress.com/2014/12/imgp2888_fotor_fotor_collage.jpg" style="border: 0px; color: #ec8500; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><img alt="IMGP2888_Fotor_Fotor_Collage" class=" size-medium wp-image-394 aligncenter" height="300" src="https://notionallybetter.files.wordpress.com/2014/12/imgp2888_fotor_fotor_collage.jpg?w=300&h=300" style="border: 4px solid rgb(217, 216, 187); clear: both; display: block; height: auto; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; max-width: 100%; padding: 0.071em;" width="300" /></a></div>
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I then made a full length pair of in navy cotton spandex. And they were a complete FAIL. No photos because I can hardly get them on. Completely my fault due to poor fabric choice. I thought that the navy was the same as the red cotton spandex that I used for my first Barb shorts. But it wasn’t. It was much lighter weight and with considerably less stretch. But I did not let that defeat me.</div>
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I bought some lovely very dark indigo stretch denim. It is great fabric. Really soft and black on the wrong side so that you don’t get that light look when the denim is stretched.</div>
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<a href="https://notionallybetter.files.wordpress.com/2014/12/imgp3442_fotor_fotor_collage.jpg" style="border: 0px; color: #ec8500; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><img alt="IMGP3442_Fotor_Fotor_Collage" class=" wp-image-400 aligncenter" height="427" src="https://notionallybetter.files.wordpress.com/2014/12/imgp3442_fotor_fotor_collage.jpg?w=427&h=427" style="border: 4px solid rgb(217, 216, 187); clear: both; display: block; height: auto; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; max-width: 100%; padding: 0.071em;" width="427" /></a>And let me just say that I love these Flo jeans. They are hands down the most comfortable jeans I’ve had in years. i think I may have said that about the Barb jeans but these are even better. My husband was like “Wow, they fit you better in the bum than other pants you’ve ever had”. Actually he said that when I first made the shorts and it was completely unprompted. It seems he is paying more attention than I perhaps give him credit for <span class="wp-smiley wp-emoji wp-emoji-smile" style="border: 0px; display: inline-block !important; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; min-height: 1.2em; outline: 0px; overflow: hidden; padding: 0px; position: relative !important; text-indent: 9999px; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap; width: 1.35em;" title=":)">:)</span></div>
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<a href="https://notionallybetter.files.wordpress.com/2014/12/imgp3437.jpg" style="border: 0px; color: #ec8500; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><img alt="IMGP3437" class=" wp-image-383 aligncenter" height="327" src="https://notionallybetter.files.wordpress.com/2014/12/imgp3437.jpg?w=436&h=327" style="border: 4px solid rgb(217, 216, 187); clear: both; display: block; height: auto; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; max-width: 100%; padding: 0.071em;" width="436" /></a></div>
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I used gold topstitching thread on the yoke,waist seam, pockets and side seams.</div>
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Some of the topstitching on the pockets is a little dodgy. Largely because I added the pockets to the already sewn up jeans, which is not a good idea. I was so eager to confirm that these would fit that I forgot that I intended to baste the side seams and then undo the side seams and add the pockets. After realising that they fit really well I went straight to finishing the side seams. I won’t make that mistake again.</div>
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<a href="https://notionallybetter.files.wordpress.com/2014/12/imgp3436_fotor.jpg" style="border: 0px; color: #ec8500; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><img alt="IMGP3436_Fotor" class=" size-medium wp-image-385 aligncenter" height="286" src="https://notionallybetter.files.wordpress.com/2014/12/imgp3436_fotor.jpg?w=300&h=286" style="border: 4px solid rgb(217, 216, 187); clear: both; display: block; height: auto; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; max-width: 100%; padding: 0.071em;" width="300" /></a></div>
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But really I know that the whole point of the pattern is the back view.</div>
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<a href="https://notionallybetter.files.wordpress.com/2014/12/imgp3443_fotor_fotor_collage.jpg" style="border: 0px; color: #ec8500; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><img alt="IMGP3443_Fotor_Fotor_Collage" class=" wp-image-401 aligncenter" height="422" src="https://notionallybetter.files.wordpress.com/2014/12/imgp3443_fotor_fotor_collage.jpg?w=422&h=422" style="border: 4px solid rgb(217, 216, 187); clear: both; display: block; height: auto; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; max-width: 100%; padding: 0.071em;" width="422" /></a></div>
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I’ve had to really overexpose these so that you can see at least some detail. On the next pairs (there will be several more) I will make the pockets smaller.</div>
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<a href="https://notionallybetter.files.wordpress.com/2014/12/imgp3444_fotor.jpg" style="border: 0px; color: #ec8500; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><img alt="IMGP3444_Fotor" class=" wp-image-402 aligncenter" height="431" src="https://notionallybetter.files.wordpress.com/2014/12/imgp3444_fotor.jpg?w=323&h=431" style="border: 4px solid rgb(217, 216, 187); clear: both; display: block; height: auto; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; max-width: 100%; padding: 0.071em;" width="323" /></a></div>
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UPDATE: I’ve changed the photos to some slightly better ones. <del style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Apologies for the all round terrible photos. I’ve got a bit of a cold and wasn’t in the mood to muck around for more than 2 minutes (as you can see from my expressions in the front view)</del>. But you will be seeing these again with the new tops I’m making to go with my fab new jeans. And then you’ll be seeing the next versions of these. I have some great black denim up next and I’m planning some capri length and next summer there’ll be more shorts.</div>
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So if you’re flat bottomed I can’t recommend this enough.</div>
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Is this your fitting issue? Have you tried the Flos yet or do you plan to?</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06923857362067010449noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-419495781828736908.post-9188716541889062792014-11-19T17:06:00.000+07:002014-11-19T17:06:04.346+07:00I'm movingHi all<br />
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I'm moving over to Wordpress. Hopefully, those of you who follow on Bloglovin will be automatically redirected. If not, or if you follow on some other way, you can find me at </div>
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notionallybetter.wordpress.com</div>
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I'm sure it's going to be an improvement so I hope you'll follow me over there.</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06923857362067010449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-419495781828736908.post-69498875945161796832014-11-12T12:10:00.000+07:002014-11-12T12:10:00.209+07:00Fabulous fabrics for hot weatherThis is pretty much an update on new fabrics in my shop so if you aren't interested then just skip it. But hey, it is fabric...<br />
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The Loy kratong celebrations last week signal the start of the holiday season for me. It will be no time at all before it is December and all the parties and socialising that come with it. Which can often mean new clothes and therefore fabric buying for sewing new clothes.<br />
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Now it is officially cool season here. While that means that the mornings and evenings are cooling down, they still aren't cool (they just aren't hot) and the days are still 30 plus degrees. Which kind of rules out a lot of fabric options. So if, like me, you are looking for vibrant colours, unusual and sometimes dramatic designs, with the cool comfort of cotton, then these may be for you.<br />
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I made my <a href="http://notionallybetter.blogspot.com/2014/11/celebration.html" target="_blank">Loy kratong top</a> from Chom Tong cotton and it comes in many stunning colours.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiFTdDD4JBpfodLk-LbcG6IhTDCjhF5a8pDhWb3y5-Vv5SloQhEJP28vNM1hyphenhyphen_g8DzeongDSoK46NPCU_bLr0Qy7ijPSNR8vH9Np0mvqGYCY5-W8Ki0wGmXKGuMpWNe8zM7NNdx-hj60_U/s1600/lilac+border03_Fotor_Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiFTdDD4JBpfodLk-LbcG6IhTDCjhF5a8pDhWb3y5-Vv5SloQhEJP28vNM1hyphenhyphen_g8DzeongDSoK46NPCU_bLr0Qy7ijPSNR8vH9Np0mvqGYCY5-W8Ki0wGmXKGuMpWNe8zM7NNdx-hj60_U/s1600/lilac+border03_Fotor_Collage.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chom Tong cottons</td></tr>
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In April, I made my Songkran dress from handwoven mudmee (ikat) cotton.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3AqS0_2FA4QDcX-PAON7gZNlx4y9hixAhZgL_vhm8jQfb3-deO0krxJTpY1Hogwe9LmKYtYw-5phTMv90pm2j6IhMM1-Sp8n0Oh5et9HbmO6TLsecQu5vNM-bX6b3pqFlWg_2TI6qvTUJ/s1600/IMGP1979.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3AqS0_2FA4QDcX-PAON7gZNlx4y9hixAhZgL_vhm8jQfb3-deO0krxJTpY1Hogwe9LmKYtYw-5phTMv90pm2j6IhMM1-Sp8n0Oh5et9HbmO6TLsecQu5vNM-bX6b3pqFlWg_2TI6qvTUJ/s1600/IMGP1979.JPG" height="640" width="320" /></a></div>
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And I still love that dress. The fabric lifts what is a very simple design (Vogue <a href="http://voguepatterns.mccall.com/v8805-products-22887.php?page_id=857&search_control=display&list=search" target="_blank">V8805</a>) into a really nice dress. Oh, and April is the hottest month here (think 40 plus degrees) and this is still cool and comfortable. I also probably shouldn't admit this but I machine wash it (on delicate) and line dry it in the shade and the colours have not faded. But of course, you should hand wash it:)<br />
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These cottons are only 100-120 gsm (3 - 3.5 oz/yd) and so are fabulous for warm weather and special occasions. Because of the weaving style you get lovely changes in colour as the garment moves and the light changes. And they come in some glorious colours and designs.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9bkpQOpEMX05aqW2K4No1vFAbqSHGRdVFxZy0m1LztO8YN7h72A-XUb3UzWK4ckPZYrlcLte2aVFSr5K8wDagk9iyOXijJ_6Tzt_Gf964Z3M1IPaHT8WxVwj7HfeoIhoiWeRlOMOGwPrC/s1600/IMGP2430_Fotor_Fotor_Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9bkpQOpEMX05aqW2K4No1vFAbqSHGRdVFxZy0m1LztO8YN7h72A-XUb3UzWK4ckPZYrlcLte2aVFSr5K8wDagk9iyOXijJ_6Tzt_Gf964Z3M1IPaHT8WxVwj7HfeoIhoiWeRlOMOGwPrC/s1600/IMGP2430_Fotor_Fotor_Collage.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mudmee cottons</td></tr>
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They also come in more understated designs.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ_4cGNGp-84jeWW1s_-4E83LZjjQTyaC8gSOzJm3v6lNcgj_a4dG3Oo7PQYtT9uAmDYYaPCeyZ3j6Kci_tK46KOWhrDKyuJwsSzPQ-S11MhmlOM_imJomQBM9Q0TcfUSdAKQ_Rs6j86QG/s1600/IMGP3122_Fotor_Fotor_Fotor_Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ_4cGNGp-84jeWW1s_-4E83LZjjQTyaC8gSOzJm3v6lNcgj_a4dG3Oo7PQYtT9uAmDYYaPCeyZ3j6Kci_tK46KOWhrDKyuJwsSzPQ-S11MhmlOM_imJomQBM9Q0TcfUSdAKQ_Rs6j86QG/s1600/IMGP3122_Fotor_Fotor_Fotor_Collage.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Three colour mudmee</td></tr>
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And they also come in some very festive colour combinations.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6WaP154bt0qibUlTpxXNVV6qaC3tDPM-oTWOFM7NpoE7BhVqjJ8Lx2hyjpk1HReK1HDXoycZdPa7JPUJctWIaH0wPULMHmF-3UKiJtXt1YDAzD3ORuCClRIPurIEFVGp_0_d2Ek1yCKha/s1600/IMGP2176_Fotor_Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6WaP154bt0qibUlTpxXNVV6qaC3tDPM-oTWOFM7NpoE7BhVqjJ8Lx2hyjpk1HReK1HDXoycZdPa7JPUJctWIaH0wPULMHmF-3UKiJtXt1YDAzD3ORuCClRIPurIEFVGp_0_d2Ek1yCKha/s1600/IMGP2176_Fotor_Collage.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Five colour mudmee</td></tr>
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But if you are looking for more muted tones, I have a new line - Thai double gauze. Only a small selection to start but there will be a few more added soon. Although unfortunately double gauze is quite hard to find here so it will never be an extensive range. But it is so lovely that I'll take what I can get.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIZweYnwmrvoMVHNZPFSUSBn5rzDM05WcfPJnf5BcPDUROufGdtq6lyITWqJ0gssVa8-vsuZfgZBbO7j1kZ7lM1_KIDzuzKTZ84td6BpSM9uC-0-Nc6cleeTG0RBkZIK_pystQphHzpLXx/s1600/IMGP2672_Fotor_Fotor_Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIZweYnwmrvoMVHNZPFSUSBn5rzDM05WcfPJnf5BcPDUROufGdtq6lyITWqJ0gssVa8-vsuZfgZBbO7j1kZ7lM1_KIDzuzKTZ84td6BpSM9uC-0-Nc6cleeTG0RBkZIK_pystQphHzpLXx/s1600/IMGP2672_Fotor_Fotor_Collage.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thai double gauze</td></tr>
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So if you are in the market for some fabulous fabrics, have a look at my <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/notionallybetter" target="_blank">Etsy </a>shop. And if you have looked before, you will be pleasantly surprised by the reduced prices on the mudmee cottons. Because I have found new suppliers and am buying in larger quantities the prices are 15-20% lower.<br />
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So are you in the market for some special fabric for those special occasions?<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06923857362067010449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-419495781828736908.post-82592165025918034672014-11-11T11:01:00.000+07:002014-11-11T17:13:12.253+07:00Celebration!Last Thursday was Loy kratong, which is one of my favourite Thai celebrations. You can read more about it <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Loi_Krathong" target="_blank">here</a>, but basically you float kratongs down the river and release khom loy into the air. It is truly beautiful to see.<br />
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I didn't take any pictures (which was rather neglectful of me) so I have shamelessly stolen some from my friend (but I'm sure she won't mind).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipvi729tl1l2SN0H8k1m6sgM-fD_kGc9HV_3G6HJu-knKsNY3KVWNUvRGXQiiONzs_C-LSDJxIGvDibnMy5WqylIZnUA8-Hc3q85IgLwZk5EI0dSbF0FhvXhogTitZ0gpafJbRX1ROj51L/s1600/10712842_10152506994100888_96236070127279037_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipvi729tl1l2SN0H8k1m6sgM-fD_kGc9HV_3G6HJu-knKsNY3KVWNUvRGXQiiONzs_C-LSDJxIGvDibnMy5WqylIZnUA8-Hc3q85IgLwZk5EI0dSbF0FhvXhogTitZ0gpafJbRX1ROj51L/s1600/10712842_10152506994100888_96236070127279037_n.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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These are kratongs which are all handmade from natural materials.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFlijrtBS70JN2FRQFrpkhYBvziCnjqJiYm_R9c6OXVwQHDrP_gvRx6q1pwvEfC8Y81NeGr1WBirhiL-sJimMReVnEPoWw0ZupRaTvTm5l0V-1DdmeQ3YF92yuP164Q5vu9-Qg13Qn4lr4/s1600/images+(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFlijrtBS70JN2FRQFrpkhYBvziCnjqJiYm_R9c6OXVwQHDrP_gvRx6q1pwvEfC8Y81NeGr1WBirhiL-sJimMReVnEPoWw0ZupRaTvTm5l0V-1DdmeQ3YF92yuP164Q5vu9-Qg13Qn4lr4/s1600/images+(1).jpg" height="258" width="400" /></a></div>
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These are from google images but show how the kratongs are made (above) and some other kratongs below.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6da9JoUfZSyKzL2UNt7048BMsl8q54DbYK6_FrrHwhhnNWNc5NPd38J1MsKCyIlRdWV81QfWggtoOcBvY7007_q9v6pmeaBwuvQK0LufhMRVR3HPHJgSuOUdl0jLhrjWIUap5n2G9yhuD/s1600/164749d0ubtbbg2robuclq.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6da9JoUfZSyKzL2UNt7048BMsl8q54DbYK6_FrrHwhhnNWNc5NPd38J1MsKCyIlRdWV81QfWggtoOcBvY7007_q9v6pmeaBwuvQK0LufhMRVR3HPHJgSuOUdl0jLhrjWIUap5n2G9yhuD/s1600/164749d0ubtbbg2robuclq.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgomaXfm7AIUDNtgmLfGKaYMYv3mMxN5fQbMhO7FzPwjGFE7H4JulHi4R0OSIQfkHs3DZqrStTc_e2xUx9j4dsawmOD8FM1Tngeo7uwnbvvy9bBJmTsBoUm_yzXWj4COrpr3McXsmnkvGW9/s1600/10417697_10152506994410888_5047515592076307299_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgomaXfm7AIUDNtgmLfGKaYMYv3mMxN5fQbMhO7FzPwjGFE7H4JulHi4R0OSIQfkHs3DZqrStTc_e2xUx9j4dsawmOD8FM1Tngeo7uwnbvvy9bBJmTsBoUm_yzXWj4COrpr3McXsmnkvGW9/s1600/10417697_10152506994410888_5047515592076307299_n.jpg" height="322" width="400" /></a></div>
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This is my fabulous friend, Jantra, about to launch a khom loy, which is basically a large paper lantern. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvW3ZtugG56Utz8ZahS0eFGtgqJeTTcrsCd-fe2fsyJ2qZa6AxePLT8Yj4TFEBf78fc0-H33jmRLPM-PiyCYa6cnhAezpHbI8ujk1CJbZ4_zBYOP55p1uMz13KXOFTPVD6X_Uw6oCjf8DB/s1600/images.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvW3ZtugG56Utz8ZahS0eFGtgqJeTTcrsCd-fe2fsyJ2qZa6AxePLT8Yj4TFEBf78fc0-H33jmRLPM-PiyCYa6cnhAezpHbI8ujk1CJbZ4_zBYOP55p1uMz13KXOFTPVD6X_Uw6oCjf8DB/s1600/images.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
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Another google image, khom loys being floating in the night sky.</div>
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I decided on Thursday morning to make myself something new to wear, which obviously I probably should have thought about a bit sooner, so it needed to be a fairly quick make.<br />
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I wanted it to be fun, cool and comfortable, and bike friendly. Because of the nature of the celebration, one of the many gorgeous Thai fabrics I have seemed appropriate. So I chose this Chom Tong cotton.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA0oZZsvyaZMUXVGNckhumd3WaawrtSlmeBAT62xMI6-o3iRyGNzMgDKHiDJaHhb6CiAfh4aUCUHOX6vHzQgdg4Rsvq6ZZZPsJLMwp_Qry-pKcEl0jNcmU2e76rlmFbtQ7cWo5mqQWe4aF/s1600/IMGP2639.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA0oZZsvyaZMUXVGNckhumd3WaawrtSlmeBAT62xMI6-o3iRyGNzMgDKHiDJaHhb6CiAfh4aUCUHOX6vHzQgdg4Rsvq6ZZZPsJLMwp_Qry-pKcEl0jNcmU2e76rlmFbtQ7cWo5mqQWe4aF/s1600/IMGP2639.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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This is not the lightest weight fabric (190 g/m or 5.5oz/yd) but we are heading into cool season here and the Loy Kratong celebrations are at night, so it would be fine. Although it also doesn't really drape. I'm hoping that the simple shape and bright (obnoxious?) colours will make up for it.<br />
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I was going to use <a href="http://mccallpattern.mccall.com/m6566-products-22757.php?page_id=481" target="_blank">M6566 </a> because if you are using fabric like that a simple pattern is all you need. I knew that the first version had some neckline issues among others so I was all prepared to make some adjustments. And then I remembered that I had always planned to use the bodice of my <a href="http://notionallybetter.blogspot.com/2014/05/going-globalgoing-thai.html" target="_blank">Going Global Thai</a> dress as a blouse pattern because I really like the fit. So I used that but without the buttons so the front is cut on the fold. As is the back, even though the original has a centre back seam.<br />
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I also knew that I didn't want the wide purple and white stripe to run down the centre front (or heaven forbid, around me). So this is what I came up with.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZx0y4pE_i-co0XVAYD4oKTKYzoTVPz4h3p35yFb5a-IPrf5HzU78mIGYVxkaRrqijtpkDUlQxmmqTL0q1sX5JuLmX6V5-6ZVqYer0iQXS3rS_jcXERRUcu55eYFFqk3Qf0hAgmk7fWJKt/s1600/IMGP3195_Fotor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZx0y4pE_i-co0XVAYD4oKTKYzoTVPz4h3p35yFb5a-IPrf5HzU78mIGYVxkaRrqijtpkDUlQxmmqTL0q1sX5JuLmX6V5-6ZVqYer0iQXS3rS_jcXERRUcu55eYFFqk3Qf0hAgmk7fWJKt/s1600/IMGP3195_Fotor.jpg" height="640" width="468" /></a></div>
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And it is fun, cool and comfortable, and bike friendly. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM35nS66E1TFaQGf-i0wlRJNBJTV8pm-6-tqyngvTYBY2eAp-zsZuLKuA3kpxE77uPRlreJOgWQtrVzRKhWRMFq4kqtG_Mu6jrMoJAJNJ_J1gF2MG4MeURg9ccxlwhjY-tqOPZijO7oBz0/s1600/IMGP3197_Fotor_Fotor_Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM35nS66E1TFaQGf-i0wlRJNBJTV8pm-6-tqyngvTYBY2eAp-zsZuLKuA3kpxE77uPRlreJOgWQtrVzRKhWRMFq4kqtG_Mu6jrMoJAJNJ_J1gF2MG4MeURg9ccxlwhjY-tqOPZijO7oBz0/s1600/IMGP3197_Fotor_Fotor_Collage.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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No, the stripes don't match on both shoulders. Because there is more fabric in the front than the back they can't both match.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFlo0rKqNjeHAVKkd4ZxQBIEKrRUBGe7jijqjgfAzeHsqG3MUOAsQfQ7C2Arud1vZFzraOFpKHzv3uR-jZCqtP9c7G4lm-B7XYT-gBNWegi6xXiBLlQaYMdx1CLvIDBcHj0IXXlIH5Q2Eg/s1600/IMGP3198_Fotor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFlo0rKqNjeHAVKkd4ZxQBIEKrRUBGe7jijqjgfAzeHsqG3MUOAsQfQ7C2Arud1vZFzraOFpKHzv3uR-jZCqtP9c7G4lm-B7XYT-gBNWegi6xXiBLlQaYMdx1CLvIDBcHj0IXXlIH5Q2Eg/s1600/IMGP3198_Fotor.jpg" height="640" width="468" /></a></div>
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I wore it with jeans but I know it is going to get a lot of use with shorts to bike around town running errands.<br />
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EDIT: I forgot to put this in the first draft. I finished the neckline and sleeves with bought bias binding. I thought about perhaps making some from this fabric but that would have been a disaster. Because this fabric frays like crazy. I mean you only have to look at it and it frays. But only really from the warp (maybe?) so the neckline and hem were ok (they frayed but only a little). So careful handling, and early seam finishing is the way to go.<br />
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I'll be back with some photos of it on me soon. The camera batteries just died and I had just changed especially to take pics:( Oh, and I'll be wearing it with my Style Arc Flo shorts. Which are excellent by the way. More on that in the next day or so.<br />
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Would you ever use a fabric like this or is it just too much?<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06923857362067010449noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-419495781828736908.post-54887974305350019522014-11-08T12:44:00.000+07:002014-11-08T12:44:59.585+07:00Barb skirtYes, you did read that right. Maybe you remember that I made these as a muslin for my <a href="http://notionallybetter.blogspot.com/2014/08/style-arc-barb-pants-round-1.html" target="_blank">Barb </a>pants.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0GHbmiWlxTBhnZS4R76WKsRE4tGrokgcBg3ZZMBMhmE8KHEplQTEnj7qUabwO7wwWKzQFyvPjc8cEJEsDM3D2cshxrcGs2iXpCXNKzofYf85f48aENmwoRL9u7VH2C-V2EehZa9k1dlk3/s1600/IMGP2128_Fotor_Fotor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0GHbmiWlxTBhnZS4R76WKsRE4tGrokgcBg3ZZMBMhmE8KHEplQTEnj7qUabwO7wwWKzQFyvPjc8cEJEsDM3D2cshxrcGs2iXpCXNKzofYf85f48aENmwoRL9u7VH2C-V2EehZa9k1dlk3/s1600/IMGP2128_Fotor_Fotor.jpg" height="640" width="556" /></a></div>
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Well, it turns out that I don't actually have much use for bright red shorts. But it seems I do have a use for a bright red skirt.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-yvZ23WME88ngP-eH9vF0scSAz-zsQ-wC8DcBQFGxSVmm8Z1tgtmMyMKEzUsss-7xCBcjIklh-Z0PIkm5ONBYAZeyx_X6g4kCcq3qs5y-qLO6qnGqOd-7_GRUtrCL9gIhbz_pzaxXcqwf/s1600/IMGP3070_Fotor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-yvZ23WME88ngP-eH9vF0scSAz-zsQ-wC8DcBQFGxSVmm8Z1tgtmMyMKEzUsss-7xCBcjIklh-Z0PIkm5ONBYAZeyx_X6g4kCcq3qs5y-qLO6qnGqOd-7_GRUtrCL9gIhbz_pzaxXcqwf/s1600/IMGP3070_Fotor.jpg" height="640" width="402" /></a></div>
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Although it looks bright pink and no amount of colour correcting works unless I'm bright green. So pink it is.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRHbidz08LBdu0IYZR7TGgt_2x16_lKECyvJJErh_vAOqcwxW-Wo974jKP0ehdyy8DlGUDDdO64FVIIi-INPZz_r4e1GtWWcrmEAm8bsza8QED0XybY3jzdiIXxS2yduFxoJl6lyypSsZd/s1600/IMGP3081_Fotor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRHbidz08LBdu0IYZR7TGgt_2x16_lKECyvJJErh_vAOqcwxW-Wo974jKP0ehdyy8DlGUDDdO64FVIIi-INPZz_r4e1GtWWcrmEAm8bsza8QED0XybY3jzdiIXxS2yduFxoJl6lyypSsZd/s1600/IMGP3081_Fotor.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
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To change this from shorts to a skirt, I simply drew a line from the fullest part of the front and back crotch curve to the original seam line at the hem. I left a short slit at the back for walking ease.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqHyirV-KW_CkK2QE8bAnD8htiSqPjPvXLtET_Asmt9HI-pCwTwpz-bPZBjxgj9BkZsc70v3IQpb0A_XYjNSICQvJsaISJ4jDA6OVih6s3WCSkU0dtFyI-fRL-VTPgMuveUpb2K_jmZyPe/s1600/IMGP3073_Fotor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqHyirV-KW_CkK2QE8bAnD8htiSqPjPvXLtET_Asmt9HI-pCwTwpz-bPZBjxgj9BkZsc70v3IQpb0A_XYjNSICQvJsaISJ4jDA6OVih6s3WCSkU0dtFyI-fRL-VTPgMuveUpb2K_jmZyPe/s1600/IMGP3073_Fotor.jpg" height="640" width="440" /></a></div>
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So a quick and easy alteration and a new favourite skirt. It also works well with the <a href="http://notionallybetter.blogspot.com/2014/10/a-black-thai-affair.html" target="_blank">Black Thai Affair</a> tunic which had been a bit of an orphan because its length makes it slightly difficult to pair up.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbA-8_CXyx28JhtnEuXNCqngSrMUEPVh06nQlVG4E3DUL-QV1TzZmnMmrdEmK-quc7cdu_JmRSSxWHC-3m5QBlBGUWT_Gh0qTO8xP9Ok3-DDypIkr_ynp3aDY35PTZh-k47oLvJjasFg21/s1600/IMGP3083_Fotor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbA-8_CXyx28JhtnEuXNCqngSrMUEPVh06nQlVG4E3DUL-QV1TzZmnMmrdEmK-quc7cdu_JmRSSxWHC-3m5QBlBGUWT_Gh0qTO8xP9Ok3-DDypIkr_ynp3aDY35PTZh-k47oLvJjasFg21/s1600/IMGP3083_Fotor.jpg" height="640" width="438" /></a></div>
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I can definitely see more Barb skirts in the future.</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06923857362067010449noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-419495781828736908.post-150410659308246582014-10-25T09:17:00.000+07:002014-10-25T09:17:07.902+07:00Finally finishedYep, H's shirt is finally done. As I mentioned in the blog hop post, just about everything that could go wrong with this did go wrong. I have sewn just about everything twice (at least).<br />
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So first, the finished product...<br />
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I probably could have ironed it before I photographed it. But it is linen so this is probably how it will usually look anyway.<br />
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Like last <a href="http://notionallybetter.blogspot.com/2014/02/my-first-mans-shirt.html" target="_blank">time</a>, I used the free pattern Lekala 6207. Last time I narrowed the shoulders and it fit better, but H requested an exact copy of a RTW linen shirt and so this time I left it as per the pattern. I also drafted a new collar based on the RTW - as is, it is quite large.<br />
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So what went wrong? Well, the first thing to go wrong was the thread. Yes, the thread. I happened to have a matching thread already but it must have been at least 20 years old. And it kept snapping. Said thread is now in the bin. I wish I had read this excellent <a href="http://lasewist.blogspot.com/2014/10/lets-talk-thread-nls-2.html" target="_blank">post </a> by La Sewista before starting on the shirt and I wouldn't have had this problem. Also after reading that post I decided to try her do-not-backstitch idea (you just dial down the stitch length instead) and I must say I am impressed. Actually the whole NLS (Next Level Sewing) series are worth a read. <br />
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So the problem with the thread snapping was that it is on the topstitching of the pocket. So I had to unpick that and being quite loose weave linen it really didn't like the extra attention. It stretched a bit. Which is why my previously pefectly matched stripes ended up a teensy bit off.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgGxGv15eavo5nGfpNDJuynot-E0lK3SDym4C6SAqBuTJaSiFp07HeBIL6Cq9GsCJiKl634bbYgNJmgPQR7w9hbGP6UF9Jo_EZhT_z1uzj6QB7scUUEeo_D8M4RcfGPZK1gz6hrytadT_J/s1600/IMGP2880_Fotor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgGxGv15eavo5nGfpNDJuynot-E0lK3SDym4C6SAqBuTJaSiFp07HeBIL6Cq9GsCJiKl634bbYgNJmgPQR7w9hbGP6UF9Jo_EZhT_z1uzj6QB7scUUEeo_D8M4RcfGPZK1gz6hrytadT_J/s1600/IMGP2880_Fotor.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">So close but yet...</td></tr>
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So the next thing to go wrong was the side seams. I flat felled them but somehow when pressing before the final row of stitching, I pressed in a crease of excess fabric. On both sides. And didn't notice. No, I don't know how either.<br />
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Then came the abomination that was the first collar and stand. I, as always, used this excellent <a href="http://foursquarewalls.blogspot.com/2013/09/sewing-collar-different-order.html" target="_blank">tutorial </a>by foursquarewalls which constructs and attaches the collar in a different (and more logical) order. The problems with the collar were entirely of my own making. When I was doing the collar I hurt my lower back. Bending down to put something in my handbag which was on the couch would you believe. I mean seriously, I have no idea how or why just bending over hurt it - but it did. So sitting in any one position for any length of time was uncomfortable. But I had determined that I would have the shirt finished for H's birthday so I kept sewing for too long. And all the sewing I did was rubbish. But somehow my pain addled brain thought it was ok at the time. When the pain cleared the unpicking began. So moral of the story - if you can't sew, don't.<br />
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As I said previously both the collar and stand looked ok as long as you didn't look at both sides at once as both were very asymetrical. Because I had enough fabric I just chucked the collar and stand in the bin and recut both. Let me tell you, attaching a collar stand on an already trimmed and clipped neckline is not easy.<br />
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But it was worth it.</div>
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I also had to redo the topstitching on the front placket because the first attempt was far from straight and even.<br />
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Fortunately I did the yoke properly the first time. I cut it on the crossgrain so that the stripes ran horizontally. And I changed the one centre pleat to two smaller ones nearer the shoulders because H prefers them that way.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqWy3N55-MR8CDyTWqQ-S49u-5cs7dvM4160fPKdR9724EhYxnSHOtIFG3Jqj9Og9euYZIIjbOEjhdLyxxQXWM3Vv_cpqs86sAMBkBtGWyC6zXK7bOOJxnQ0bpCVum__8NM94wQU26P8Fk/s1600/IMGP2881_Fotor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqWy3N55-MR8CDyTWqQ-S49u-5cs7dvM4160fPKdR9724EhYxnSHOtIFG3Jqj9Og9euYZIIjbOEjhdLyxxQXWM3Vv_cpqs86sAMBkBtGWyC6zXK7bOOJxnQ0bpCVum__8NM94wQU26P8Fk/s1600/IMGP2881_Fotor.jpg" height="474" width="640" /></a></div>
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A full back view.</div>
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I should point out that H did suggest several times that I just leave this and sew something else but I feared that if I left it, it would be a UFO forever. I am now very glad that I persevered.<br />
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So I recommend the Lekala pattern if you fancy making a shirt for the man in your life. Although if it's your first man's shirt you may find the instructions somewhat lacking. But with the many excellent tutorials available around the internet you shouldn't have too much trouble. And I do really recommend <a href="http://foursquarewalls.blogspot.com/2013/09/sewing-collar-different-order.html" target="_blank">the collar tutorial</a>, you really should give it a try.<br />
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Next time I'm going to use one of the many collar point tutorials and see if I can improve them. What about you? Do you have any favourite men's shirt tutorials, tips or suggestions?<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06923857362067010449noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-419495781828736908.post-59122436763774065662014-10-22T07:00:00.000+07:002014-10-22T07:00:06.938+07:00Reluctant Barbs<div style="text-align: left;">
Actually the Barbs aren't reluctant. I'm just reluctant to publish this post. Once again the photos have thrown me. </div>
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See I love these Barbs. They feel fabulous. Hands down the most comfortable jeans (yes, I'm calling them jeans) I have owned in years. Which admittedly isn't actually saying much. I'm really short waisted with a muffin top even in loose clothes so the waistbands always scrunch up and the button digs in.</div>
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But first, Barbs aren't jeans, are they? This is how I justify calling them jeans.<br />
1. They are made of denim - albeit cheap not quite black stretch denim. (They were always meant to be a wearable muslin).<br />
2. They have jeans pockets</div>
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I just copied a pocket of an old RTW pair. But note to self - interface stretch denim for pockets.</div>
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H also says they look good and fit my bum better than others. Then I look at these photos and think - really? Look at all those wrinkles. (And don't look at all the loose threads from my very dodgy first ever machine rolled hem)</div>
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Maybe the wrinkles are because of my awkward midstep, pigeon toed stance...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg71zoodbSLRsGK26TaRXTNdDaIbv0NPVlspaSdvz27S_B1jfUMbvBcntmNxnv9VQSUgIm3QgI-pJwrpT0ep6HVVVwhMCftHGjgr1qvFghRzo0ymHt_kdtCdC5lT19Nrg1-eq3clOjqZX2I/s1600/IMGP2631_Fotor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg71zoodbSLRsGK26TaRXTNdDaIbv0NPVlspaSdvz27S_B1jfUMbvBcntmNxnv9VQSUgIm3QgI-pJwrpT0ep6HVVVwhMCftHGjgr1qvFghRzo0ymHt_kdtCdC5lT19Nrg1-eq3clOjqZX2I/s1600/IMGP2631_Fotor.jpg" height="640" width="434" /></a></div>
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Nope, apparently not. Maybe if I just stand awkwardly with a stupid look on my face?</div>
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Yeah, well that helps but of course this is the front and there are still wrinkles.</div>
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These are a size 16 and they are actually too big and so I was going to make the 14 now that I have it too. Of course, they'll still need a flat bum adjustment.<br />
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Except they won't... because this just arrived at my place.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdHk6720r-pRrjwFrCs_rie9fNk7ZJqGQfA-nNrvnm3gottJnDsBCOMDJWQoydBf_jPXMxkkkFwezXQbtixzd21PlXa5IWZ25oCvGdjClnrWfVrwKXfPJn_0bLGle7_BE5ZqHhpc7KzoIY/s1600/FLO-PANT.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdHk6720r-pRrjwFrCs_rie9fNk7ZJqGQfA-nNrvnm3gottJnDsBCOMDJWQoydBf_jPXMxkkkFwezXQbtixzd21PlXa5IWZ25oCvGdjClnrWfVrwKXfPJn_0bLGle7_BE5ZqHhpc7KzoIY/s1600/FLO-PANT.jpg" height="420" width="640" /></a></div>
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I was pathetically pleased when I saw that Style Arc had released <a href="http://www.stylearc.com.au/stylearc/index.php?page=shop.product_details&category_id=2&flypage=flypage.tpl&product_id=710&option=com_virtuemart&Itemid=42" target="_blank">these</a>. I have never instantly clicked on the buy button before, but I didn't even hesitate. These were bought within minutes of the email arriving to announce the pattern release.</div>
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I'd also like to point out that I am so glad to have finally posted this. It's been cathartic and I'll never have to look at the pics again. I must remember that next time I'm procrastinating for this reason.</div>
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So, are you planning on making Flo? Or maybe you have already?</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06923857362067010449noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-419495781828736908.post-81311365933029869422014-10-20T17:57:00.000+07:002014-10-20T17:57:46.153+07:00Blog hop<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">The blog hop baton has been passed to me from the lovely Lara of <a href="http://thornberry.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Thornberry</a>. Lara is a prolific stitcher who makes fabulous clothes for herself and her gorgeous daughters. One (of the many) things I appreciate about Lara's blog is that she experiments with shape, colour and fabric and shares all the results - even if they aren't always quite what she was hoping for. </span><br />
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1. Why do you write?<br />
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I started sewing again about a year ago after nearly 30 years of not sewing. I didn't even realise that there were sewing blogs and I don't remember how I found them but boy I'm glad I did. I am continually inspired by sewing bloggers. I love to see how patterns have been interpreted and how fabric choice completely alters the finished garment. I also really appreciate being able to see finished garments on a wide variety of people; different ages, shapes, sizes and styles.<br />
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This last point is especially important to me. And quite difficult to explain well.<br />
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I live in Thailand and so don't usually see women who resemble me in any way. (Yes, there are lots of foreign tourists in Chiang Mai but they are on holiday and I also don't live in Chiang Mai.) The few other foreign women I know, or just see around, are generally significantly younger than I am. I am surrounded by women who are just so much smaller than I am in every respect.<br />
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Also clothes that fit me are very thin on the ground so I can't try on RTW to see how a particular style looks. And most of my existing RTW was bought when I was working in the Middle East and so was both professional and conservative. My life now is neither of those things.<br />
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Sewing blogs allow me to see how garments look on someone who looks more like me. So a big thank you to all the nearly 50, not quite shaped as they used to be, bloggers out there.<br />
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And I still haven't mentioned why I write. Basically, it just seems that since I gain so much from the blogs of others that I too should contribute in some small way. I really appreciate the opportunity to discuss the best way to construct a collar or the joy of french seams or to just celebrate the completion of a garment. I don't know others who sew because home sewers are basically non-existent here. Tailors are plentiful and affordable and so many people have professional or formal wear tailored for them. (And I can't tell you how tempting that is when you're grappling to fit pants for example.)<br />
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And of course without sewing blogs I would not have had the pleasure of meeting and fabric shopping with both Lara and Seamstress Erin and made two new IRL friends as well.<br />
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By the way, this is an open invitation to anyone visiting Chiang Mai to get in touch. I'd love to go fabric shopping with you.<br />
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2. What are you working on?<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 23.998001098632813px;">That my friends is a shirt for H. Well it will be... eventually. Just about everything that could go wrong has gone wrong. The mess you see above is actually a completely unpicked collar and stand. The collar actually looked fine as long as you only looked at one side at a time. It was completely asymetrical. And that was both the collar and stand. I'm not sure exactly how that happened but I do know the main culprit was me. I'll fill you in on the trials and tribulations when it is actually finished</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 23.998001098632813px;">.</span><br />
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3. How does you blog differ from others of the same genre?<br />
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As many people have already said - I'm not sure that it does. Although I am still relatively new to it and still finding 'my voice'. I am finding it hard to make the switch from my professional, managerial and/or academic writing style into something more personal. But I am working on it.<br />
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I could give you a long list of what my blog doesn't have or do compared to others but then you already know that, don't you? And yet you still read it... you are kind.<br />
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4. What is your writing process?<br />
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Ha! What is this process of which you speak?<br />
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For someone who is generally very organised, I am surprisingly haphazard about blogging. I blame the necessity of taking photographs. I do not like having my photo taken and never have. Because of this, makes often don't get posted immediately. I am constantly writing blog posts in my mind; while I'm sewing, cycling, ironing, but by the time I get around to actually writing, the thoughtful/interesting/important/useful/amusing points often do not make it into the written version.<br />
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I also seem to either sew or blog and not the two together. So I often sew several garments and then when I eventually have photos I will write several posts. I also (strangely) get hung up on blogging makes in the order in which they are made, or in some other order according to my own mental list. Seriously, sometimes I think "I'll write a post about y" but then I think "No, I haven't posted about x yet. I have to do that first." And I have no idea why and now that I actually contemplate this properly - it is just plain stupid. So I will be working on that too.<br />
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But enough fairly random rambling from me. I would like to pass the baton onto <a href="http://bobbinsbikesandblades.com/wordpress" target="_blank">bobbinsbikesandblades</a> and <a href="http://onedabbles.com/" target="_blank">onedabbles</a>, both of whom take the time to comment on what can be some fairly mundane posts. Thank you both for that.<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06923857362067010449noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-419495781828736908.post-43073486863445045262014-10-08T16:30:00.000+07:002014-10-08T16:30:20.543+07:00A Black Thai AffairI ended up with this Thai mudmee cotton quite unintentionally. I had bought it for <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/notionallybetter?ref=hdr_shop_menu" target="_blank">the shop</a> but on closer examination discovered that it had a couple of faults so I had to use it myself. What a shame, eh?<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguTJ2B19dvcD45XfqyYiU-PIMFcsF0M1Xu-yzgk5tonQZ90SwxXKDTHjwFCp5vmrBQvbHK9w72H0avLzLWYyhH7yhKXbU5hyPJFUoFtfcNnkk_lahCeHsGQ3PIMLRX7hnwU8_P3UJ4b728/s1600/IMGP2673_Fotor_Fotor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguTJ2B19dvcD45XfqyYiU-PIMFcsF0M1Xu-yzgk5tonQZ90SwxXKDTHjwFCp5vmrBQvbHK9w72H0avLzLWYyhH7yhKXbU5hyPJFUoFtfcNnkk_lahCeHsGQ3PIMLRX7hnwU8_P3UJ4b728/s1600/IMGP2673_Fotor_Fotor.jpg" height="640" width="468" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">M6702 in Thai mudmee</td></tr>
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In the photo above you can quite clearly see the faded patches, which I unthinkingly placed pretty much exactly at my bust.<br />
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But back to the beginning. This is McCalls 6702 View C, minus the pocket but with View D length.<br />
I am actually surprised by just how much I like it. Of course this is after basically reducing it down one size while making it. On top of the usual lots of ease there is actually more ease than stated as the finished garment measurements are wrong. Oh, and it is definitely tunic length (like nearly low thigh as opposed to mid-thigh) and I'm 172 cms or about 5'7".<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz7n6C0B8R_r-2EYcVERBV7ozPP7QhyphenhyphenY50iguE6RX8S9CADQh0Xg4zKuhO1THlumPB-me-RVDDndOTsmWnHgkMXRVhkREQgkcuOptmknrlOsSYKWrhqD4oMupX7evbF_yq8eqRl_pXRY5l/s1600/IMGP2674_Fotor_Fotor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz7n6C0B8R_r-2EYcVERBV7ozPP7QhyphenhyphenY50iguE6RX8S9CADQh0Xg4zKuhO1THlumPB-me-RVDDndOTsmWnHgkMXRVhkREQgkcuOptmknrlOsSYKWrhqD4oMupX7evbF_yq8eqRl_pXRY5l/s1600/IMGP2674_Fotor_Fotor.jpg" height="640" width="468" /></a></div>
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It is remarkably comfortable and I think a lot of that may be down to the two piece sleeve.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGyAOHzFJfP9ZdDoWfzddacZ0ZerufioMpuKz6nCg6wWKVyit1mLZNZrfPH3ohGuueH6fWbB-rOm1Uytuak3Blg4-_n24KPXEuZBAXkU-gwbOwZskMk-Mia27KPFWPdwwaPk1_xLEJs7dc/s1600/IMGP2675_Fotor_Fotor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGyAOHzFJfP9ZdDoWfzddacZ0ZerufioMpuKz6nCg6wWKVyit1mLZNZrfPH3ohGuueH6fWbB-rOm1Uytuak3Blg4-_n24KPXEuZBAXkU-gwbOwZskMk-Mia27KPFWPdwwaPk1_xLEJs7dc/s1600/IMGP2675_Fotor_Fotor.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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As you can see, I used a solid black lightweight linen for the yoke and front of the sleeve. Purely because I didn't have enough of the mudmee. It also matches better than it looks here - we all know what it's like to photograph black, don't we?<br />
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You can also see a few stray threads. This cotton, while beautiful in most respects, frays if you so much as look at it. And yes, there are threads poking out of my otherwise lovely french seams, which I did everywhere, even on the armholes.<br />
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The placket is also solid black lightweight linen, although the less said about it the better. The collar shape is just off and the topstitching isn't too flash either. Most of these problems were caused by my far-too-stiff interfacing. But it was the only one I had in black so I used it anyway.<br />
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That placket is also seriously long. I handstitched it closed to make it decent. On the next versions, of which I think there may be a couple, I would probably just add buttons and perhaps even buttonholes. Although since they wouldn't need to be functioning, I may be too lazy for that.<br />
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I also think I will move the shoulders forward. As it stands the yoke finishes at the shoulder seam - as you'd expect. But that also means that the gathers sprout directly from the shoulders. I think they'd be better moved down some. And I'll probably make them tucks not gathers. I'm not really a gather type of gal.<br />
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I also can't stop thinking about a shirt dress version. I reckon it would make a great shirt dress. I have looked at so many shirt dress patterns and there's something 'wrong' with all of them. Either they have a waist seam (no thanks) or lots of pockets (safari style) or a retro vibe (not my thing). Plus of course I already have this pattern and would only have to add a little length - an easy adjustment. What do you think?<br />
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You may also have noticed from the photographs that I have a new sewing friend. I was passing a shop in Chiang Mai and saw a 'plus size' dressform. Miraculously, she shares my bust and waist measurements although her hips are bigger than mine. This seemed so serendipitous that I just had to bring her home. I think she's going to be a tremendous help.<br />
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So what do you think of this as a shirt dress? Good idea? Bad idea? I'm also open to 'perfect' shirt dress pattern suggestions.<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06923857362067010449noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-419495781828736908.post-6353214489591407832014-09-25T14:31:00.000+07:002014-09-25T14:31:57.994+07:00A quick and colourful resultSometimes you just need a quick and simple make. Especially when you have that "I want something new to wear tonight" feeling at around lunchtime.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2ib-_Edr6xsWcvUQVxnOInvppZkym0YyPKIoy7kcSDmFwOr7UaScmWBrxc5bxF9qpgeBZuCac8v6iSnSjiNAwyIhfqtwUXEuMWC6j9kpJhLj9vxzEdoqzpAlWJoruddtA5SzIOcreaMiG/s1600/IMGP2350_Fotor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2ib-_Edr6xsWcvUQVxnOInvppZkym0YyPKIoy7kcSDmFwOr7UaScmWBrxc5bxF9qpgeBZuCac8v6iSnSjiNAwyIhfqtwUXEuMWC6j9kpJhLj9vxzEdoqzpAlWJoruddtA5SzIOcreaMiG/s1600/IMGP2350_Fotor.jpg" height="640" width="282" /></a></div>
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So I whipped up this colourful skirt. Took no time at all. Just take one metre of cotton sateen, one centre back seam and an elastic waist and you have a bright, colourful skirt in no time at all. There are a million tutorials available if you want to make one yourself.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtIK7fzvL-E6mRmiy_WQLLXqDAnNR7D-aOfy3J1GsBrZyAfHvfkqqxa8Los6g75umfrLEuvs4kXVuosVxr25dSjklIIGJGkGLeesfHCr7h9mEt1OrzZdsAa2-5BP8Hf1ory68v5YO9oukd/s1600/IMGP2347_Fotor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtIK7fzvL-E6mRmiy_WQLLXqDAnNR7D-aOfy3J1GsBrZyAfHvfkqqxa8Los6g75umfrLEuvs4kXVuosVxr25dSjklIIGJGkGLeesfHCr7h9mEt1OrzZdsAa2-5BP8Hf1ory68v5YO9oukd/s1600/IMGP2347_Fotor.jpg" height="640" width="380" /></a></div>
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I was fortunate to just be able to use the selvedge at the centre back seam so didn't even need to finish the seams.<br />
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I machine hemmed it with two rows of grey thread. I find that two rows looks more intentional and therefore more finished than one sometimes.<br />
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And in case you were wondering a matching vodka is optional, although I do find it makes the photo taking a little easier to bear. I recommend pomegranate juice for a nice reddish pink hue.<br />
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Of course now I really need to make some tops to go with it. I don't have any other solid coloured tops and I'm not a print matching kind of girl. And this old RTW top is now enormous.<br />
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I think I might need to keep an eye out for some more colourful cotton sateens. But perhaps after I've made a couple of tops to go with this one.<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06923857362067010449noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-419495781828736908.post-45487279614692763392014-09-23T09:21:00.000+07:002014-09-23T09:21:14.362+07:00To cowl or not to cowl?That is the question. I've made M6604 twice now. The <a href="http://notionallybetter.blogspot.com/2014/01/january-make-garment-month-complete.html" target="_blank">first time</a> I ended up with bewbsmiles...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiScC6VBIYLBuZvBfNC9DFOrOt3avh1qT1RAxurYAlS2zRgGK9kScL8eCnL4ZCvxv5y3nAzKPVnMvdBG34uSoxJxurT5CCP9cjcaFebcXM-NgY6it-vzYwS1r3sD-nOAy_ACPWUZ9nmK_FU/s1600/maroon01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiScC6VBIYLBuZvBfNC9DFOrOt3avh1qT1RAxurYAlS2zRgGK9kScL8eCnL4ZCvxv5y3nAzKPVnMvdBG34uSoxJxurT5CCP9cjcaFebcXM-NgY6it-vzYwS1r3sD-nOAy_ACPWUZ9nmK_FU/s1600/maroon01.jpg" height="640" width="440" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">M6604</td></tr>
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As someone else said, "It is too tight but with too much excess fabric at the same time". (Sorry don't know who said it but from now on I will try to remember to save these posts to refer to later.)<br />
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But I did think it was worth another try. So then I made version two.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRQNFgsMPoFXfbArIo8renrglyROfDXz3eZtJW-9jW0wB7tS1ciiYFjx4rtnVTd-egtadTYevk4TzkP620KHxqTyk2dBT56hlqSPROs07yhTxsJqU02UJeRDFImohEqxTt5frqsNQQ_-SC/s1600/IMGP2337_Fotor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRQNFgsMPoFXfbArIo8renrglyROfDXz3eZtJW-9jW0wB7tS1ciiYFjx4rtnVTd-egtadTYevk4TzkP620KHxqTyk2dBT56hlqSPROs07yhTxsJqU02UJeRDFImohEqxTt5frqsNQQ_-SC/s1600/IMGP2337_Fotor.jpg" height="640" width="488" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">M6604</td></tr>
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Unfortunately I made this a while ago and now can't remember exactly what alterations I made. I think I cheated by just adding to the centre front thinking that I could then take in the extra in the neckline tucks.<br />
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While this has largely solved the bewbsmile issue, there is now too much fabric around the shoulders.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_BwRjib9RSeecH56sQlWCjjsvdf86Ty7o5p-entLSTHcyqTro1lbJCLHfWOMDKlmCEDtTMdhhZSUz_ouc0iusrsebrAgOTcsK2j_0o_uc1j0-GQ_5jHT1bjYc3Y2QIFKy9kMRDR_zH9qe/s1600/m6604_Fotor_Fotor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_BwRjib9RSeecH56sQlWCjjsvdf86Ty7o5p-entLSTHcyqTro1lbJCLHfWOMDKlmCEDtTMdhhZSUz_ouc0iusrsebrAgOTcsK2j_0o_uc1j0-GQ_5jHT1bjYc3Y2QIFKy9kMRDR_zH9qe/s1600/m6604_Fotor_Fotor.jpg" /></a>Now I realise that I probably have to do an FBA. Which is fine and I probably will make another with one at some stage. But I would really like to try the cowl neck version.<br />
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But given the fit issues I've already encountered I'm not even sure what size to start with. The first version started at 20 then down to 18. The second is an altered 18. I also cannot get my head around trying to do any sort of FBA on a cowl.<br />
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So any ideas? Have you made M6604? How did you go? Any and all thoughts or suggestions are very welcome.<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06923857362067010449noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-419495781828736908.post-65738550440137617052014-09-09T07:59:00.002+07:002014-09-09T11:42:28.937+07:00It's not you. It is the pattern.Warning: Long (potentially boring) rant to follow. And it doesn't even have pictures.<br />
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I've been meaning to write this for a while but didn't quite get around to it. Then Seamstress Erin and I discussed it at length during our <a href="http://seamstresserin.com/fabric-shopping-chiang-mai-experience/" target="_blank">fabric shopping in Chiang Mai</a> and I still didn't write about it. And then yesterday I saw a post by someone who discovered that the finished garment measurements on her McCalls jacket pattern were completely inaccurate. Unfortunately, I now can't find this post so if you know who this is, please let me know so that I can credit the author.<br />
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I had first read this very interesting <a href="http://repository.lib.ncsu.edu/ir/bitstream/1840.16/7392/1/etd.pdf" target="_blank">thesis</a> a while ago but didn't pay enough attention to the details. It was written by Debra Lee McLendon at North Carolina State University as part of her Master of Science (Textiles). We'll come back to this shortly. <br />
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When I was making <a href="http://mccallpattern.mccall.com/m6702-products-44758.php?page_id=96" target="_blank">M6702</a> I was looking at finished garment measurements, one of which was Hips 142 cm or 56.5". However, 142 cm does not equal 56.5" so one of them has to be wrong. 56.5" is actually 143.5 cm, so if you were to go by the metric measure you are already 1.5 cm out. Then I measured the flat pattern and the finished garment size at the hips is actually 145 cm.<br />
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So this prompted me to go back to the <a href="http://repository.lib.ncsu.edu/ir/bitstream/1840.16/7392/1/etd.pdf" target="_blank">thesis</a>. Basically, the author made test garments from fitting shells (Vogue and Butterick) and semi-fitted dresses in both size 10 and size 18. The semi-fitted patterns were from Burda, Butterick (size 10 only), McCalls and New Look.<br />
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These garments were then compared to both the pattern companies' stated ease charts and finished garment measurements. This is what it found;<br />
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<i>Do finished garment measurements in key areas printed on patterns conform to the </i><br />
<i>company ease specifications for each fit category? Generally, no. </i><br />
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<ul>
<li><i>None of the three fitting shells met ease requirements in all three areas. The size 10 Vogue came closest to meeting the required amount in the bust, whereas both brands of the size 18 had too much ease in the bust. All three patterns had too little ease in the waist and hip. </i></li>
<li><i>The only brand to meet ease specifications for the semi-fitted category of the size 10 patterns under evaluation was Butterick #5746. </i></li>
<li><i>None of the brands of the size 18 patterns met the ease specifications for the semi-fitted category. </i></li>
<li><i>None of the brands evaluated met their finished garment specifications when compared to the tissue measurements. </i></li>
</ul>
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I know that you are all thinking "Well, yes, we know they have too much ease."<br />
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However, I had always thought of that in relation to what it seems most of us find acceptable. I hadn't really thought about the fact that <b>they do not have the ease they claim to have</b> or should have according to the companies' own specifications. It is also very easy to dismiss what seem to be small differences. After all, half an inch isn't very much. But when a fitting shell has half an inch too much ease in the bust, this is at least a 20% difference.<br />
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Do pattern companies really think that give or take 20% here or there is ok?<br />
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Now just have a quick look at the last point from the thesis above. That's right, the one that says<br />
<i>None of the brands evaluated met their finished garment specifications when compared to the tissue measurements.</i><br />
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We can argue about ease amounts, after all desirable ease and the fit it provides is subjective. But now we are talking about accuracy. As the author states, <i>the tissue pattern measurements on all brands failed to </i><i>match the finished garment specs for both the bust and hip.</i><br />
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<b>That's right, not one of the patterns researched had accurate finished garment measurements.</b><br />
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The author concluded with this, <i>Based on the data, it would not be possible to produce a garment from any of the patterns that matched the expected finished garment specs provided on the patterns.</i></div>
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How is this considered acceptable? How have we come to accept that patterns just are inaccurate? </div>
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I must admit that I fear an avalanche of "that is why you need to make a muslin" responses. But surely a muslin should be to tweak a pattern to our unique bodies not to compensate for the fact that the initial pattern is just plain wrong?</div>
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I'd love to know what you think.</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06923857362067010449noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-419495781828736908.post-87492269037544389492014-08-25T13:12:00.000+07:002014-08-25T13:12:54.320+07:00Style Arc Barb Pants Round 1This is quite a long post with some very dodgy photos and way too many of my bum - you have been warned!<br />
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Well, these have been a very long time in the blogging. Once again (as always) photographs were the stumbling block. Someone recently (sorry but can't remember who) mentioned that they often like garments better after having seen the pics and blogged them. I'm afraid that I am completely the opposite. The pants to follow are a very good example. I made them, wore them, was quite happy with them and then I saw the photos and went "Oh, they don't look like they fit nearly as well as they feel like they fit". I think that this is exacerbated by the fact that I have never seen close up views of me in RTW pants. And these makes certainly fit better than any RTW that I've had recently.<br />
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But on to the Barbs. I got this pattern free and you can too by signing up for their newsletter <a href="http://www.stylearc.com/threads-promo/" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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According to their size charts I am between 16 and 18 in the hips but a 20 in the waist. Fortunately for this promo you receive the size requested plus one size either side. I ordered the size 18 and received 16, 18 and 20.<br />
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So I made a first hopefully wearable muslin using a size 16 for the back and size 18 for the front. FYI I have comparatively small hips and a very flat bum. I used some very bright red cotton spandex. Which is fabulous fabric by the way, although very bright as you can see.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0wIawVtgJ39rvMd910LglmmO69VaZS9ZwnLO_3q6vmhz8fP2S4MnHcsxhuAXEH-R_j38rtjQgzD6MfOvlnKr4QDVf40ZJWJuU_Q3L1waH35x3PdFZ4Wr_IJDUzqKgaCpe3gV3jeV8Y-tX/s1600/IMGP2128_Fotor_Fotor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0wIawVtgJ39rvMd910LglmmO69VaZS9ZwnLO_3q6vmhz8fP2S4MnHcsxhuAXEH-R_j38rtjQgzD6MfOvlnKr4QDVf40ZJWJuU_Q3L1waH35x3PdFZ4Wr_IJDUzqKgaCpe3gV3jeV8Y-tX/s1600/IMGP2128_Fotor_Fotor.jpg" height="400" width="348" /></a></div>
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So this is the back of the size 16 with no alterations. As you can see, there is clearly too much fabric at the top of the thighs. The front in an 18 was also too big. I have taken these apart to recut in a smaller size.<br />
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I then made another pair using size 16 both back and front using fairly light stretch denim. I made a flat bottom adjustment using Style Arc's <a href="http://www.stylearc.com.au/stylearc/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=56&Itemid=69" target="_blank">tutorial</a>. I also took 1 cm out of the front crotch depth based one the many tutorials I found. I really can't remember which one I finally used.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtenDKJZtsE97EZ_zPSQprRLpXYcAuxZlnnkW6aA18v6G6PwVm28DRMYQjr1f7eNdTCctK7eOrOIJpKxs0nZLlzNfWd-OkEt-twT79sTJu4fxgVDMnFWFuNhBBCCjNavURQaTdMZt65P5V/s1600/IMGP2156_Fotor_Fotor_Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtenDKJZtsE97EZ_zPSQprRLpXYcAuxZlnnkW6aA18v6G6PwVm28DRMYQjr1f7eNdTCctK7eOrOIJpKxs0nZLlzNfWd-OkEt-twT79sTJu4fxgVDMnFWFuNhBBCCjNavURQaTdMZt65P5V/s1600/IMGP2156_Fotor_Fotor_Collage.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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Sorry, it's hard to see details with dark colours but obviously they still need to have more fabric removed under my bum. And there's still too much fabric in the crotch as well. However, these are in high wardrobe rotation and are very comfortable. And are usually only seen with a shirt out over them like this.<br />
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So then I made version 3 out of the same denim but decided to go for a capri length. I did another flat bottom adjustment (so I took out about 3 cm altogether) and took another 1 cm from the front crotch. I also basically removed the hip curve entirely and took a couple of centimetres off the outside leg seam.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHgwyuo2YYa5M73OnlWMfVqsOrXkMaJGfjGOvirgYOhw26dxh5hE21RgFrn3ddWN3H2huNWzsw5NwTmVHSLWC524toDdhMyQ9RQ_uR4j7gdNYsCNvpdR1mnFmTkpPK0T_Eo1OV-Hr7oC0L/s1600/IMGP2337_Fotor_Fotor_Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHgwyuo2YYa5M73OnlWMfVqsOrXkMaJGfjGOvirgYOhw26dxh5hE21RgFrn3ddWN3H2huNWzsw5NwTmVHSLWC524toDdhMyQ9RQ_uR4j7gdNYsCNvpdR1mnFmTkpPK0T_Eo1OV-Hr7oC0L/s1600/IMGP2337_Fotor_Fotor_Collage.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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And there is still excess fabric. However, again these are in high rotation and very comfortable. Note that I was not/am not looking for a really close fit as it is much cooler in really hot, humid weather to have a slightly looser fit.</div>
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This is also cheap stretch denim and doesn't have great recovery, hence the bagging at the knees. And boy that top is too big and doesn't have enough drape. But that's a story for another day.</div>
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I have since also made a pair of jeans using the size 16 Barb with yet more adjustments. So hopefully you'll see those soon. I also now have the pattern in a size 14, which is probably what I should have started with! In fact this experience (and a few other things) distracted me while I did some research into pattern sizing, finished garment sizes and the information provided regarding choosing sizes. What I discovered quite surprised me. I hope to post that in the next day or two and I will be really interested in everyone else's views on that.</div>
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Well done for getting to the end of that. Your turn now. Have you tried Barbs? How did you get on?</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06923857362067010449noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-419495781828736908.post-48281031136552169042014-08-05T07:34:00.000+07:002014-08-05T07:34:56.037+07:00Not a complete lossSome of you may remember that I was going to make this<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuQQl6l-SAKtIcJJXqwQnNdXgFNBwb_PzEK7Td5Bu0KV8XUP_wsetXuT0uwQHtHBSNZ0v7rZM4uES6hI5lImLa9PhJXI2KrOR9fcDASsIlVJergauTxxDYOihhUYRJ2baCCObQs9X5ILY2/s1600/IMG_0877+copy_Fotor_Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuQQl6l-SAKtIcJJXqwQnNdXgFNBwb_PzEK7Td5Bu0KV8XUP_wsetXuT0uwQHtHBSNZ0v7rZM4uES6hI5lImLa9PhJXI2KrOR9fcDASsIlVJergauTxxDYOihhUYRJ2baCCObQs9X5ILY2/s1600/IMG_0877+copy_Fotor_Collage.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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I thought the <a href="http://www.tessuti-shop.com/collections/digital-download-pattern-dresses/products/pia-dress-pattern-print-at-home-or-copy-shop-pdf" target="_blank">Tessuti Pia</a> was going to be a relatively straightforward sew. Silly me.<br />
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You see in my initial enthusiasm I somehow completely misread the sizing information. The XL has the following measurements; Bust 101 cm, Waist 89 cm, Hip 117 cm.<br />
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Ok the waist is too small but I didn't think that would be a problem due to the shape - and it wasn't. And the hip is pretty spot on. But my bust measurement is actually 116 cm. Not a great increase on the 110 cm that I read the pattern as. But a significant increase from the actual 101 cm.<br />
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So needless to say my first wearable muslin didn't quite fit - although I think it is salvageable. And I do want to salvage it as I really like the fabric. Actually I was (and am) embarrassed to discover that it is actually a cheap knockoff of this<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgux2j0aG1NfP_V7Cg3ct37As0Onm89-W4V141dhFXMY9HGaIsplZsr0KhVw-CbI1OKvr3GwJEgvRNHYsbFYaW_nPVEVhKQ8MzlKZiIYq9XnPpk2yqZQ6i1avy8_sk_IWqxqGAhTBo7EUpF/s1600/st_walkabout_blue.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgux2j0aG1NfP_V7Cg3ct37As0Onm89-W4V141dhFXMY9HGaIsplZsr0KhVw-CbI1OKvr3GwJEgvRNHYsbFYaW_nPVEVhKQ8MzlKZiIYq9XnPpk2yqZQ6i1avy8_sk_IWqxqGAhTBo7EUpF/s1600/st_walkabout_blue.JPG" height="301" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On Walkabout by Karen Taylor</td></tr>
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Which led me to have a closer look at some of the truly amazing Australian Aboriginal print fabric available.<br />
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I am actually not that fond of prints - largely because I usually find it so difficult to find ones that I like. I don't like florals or novelty prints. I do like strong, geometric prints. Boy do these aboriginal designs fit the bill. Check these out<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz6bwMhaIoJntCpWu7SKfLvdRjaAnAZCKvKHG-GLRMZxArKcq6ckGfHl9BK0by4RsYF3v_wEdyQferCawqoMTE7rPkkiwNivDjOHYtXJXuRNwxOLk2xRamDlH1jGtKUbvWJsLIC3-kvF92/s1600/Seven_sisters_black_Fotor_Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz6bwMhaIoJntCpWu7SKfLvdRjaAnAZCKvKHG-GLRMZxArKcq6ckGfHl9BK0by4RsYF3v_wEdyQferCawqoMTE7rPkkiwNivDjOHYtXJXuRNwxOLk2xRamDlH1jGtKUbvWJsLIC3-kvF92/s1600/Seven_sisters_black_Fotor_Collage.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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So I am now going to order myself some of these fantastic fabrics. You can find them at<br />
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<a href="http://www.fabricsdownunder.com.au/categories/Fabric/Australian/Aboriginal/" target="_blank">Fabrics Downunder</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.kullillaart.com.au/default.asp?PageID=214" target="_blank">Kullillaart</a><br />
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<a href="http://aboriginalfabrics.com.au/2-Fabrics-145cm.html" target="_blank">Aboriginal Fabrics</a><br />
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And for those of us outside of Australia<br />
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<a href="http://www.fabricandart.com/australian_fabric_page.html" target="_blank">Fabrics and art</a> which by the way has flat rate international shipping of only $23.95 for up to 9 yards (and really good prices on this fabric).<br />
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So the Pia dress has been temporarily shelved while I contemplate the fitting issues. But it has opened my eyes to the wonder of Aboriginal print fabrics so it hasn't been a total loss.<br />
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Have you ever used Aboriginal print fabrics? Or are you now tempted? If you have, please leave links in the comments as I'd love to have a look.<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06923857362067010449noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-419495781828736908.post-14692525968906015992014-07-17T16:06:00.001+07:002014-07-17T16:06:26.816+07:00Fabulous fabric finds<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I really debated whether to post this (warning blatent self-promotion follows). I was/am concerned about boring you, or worse annoying you, with what is basically a post about my Etsy shop. However, it is no secret that I have a shop and since I do sell fabric, I thought that some of you may be interested.<br />
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One of my favourite fabric suppliers is a small textile company, Baan Thai, based in Chiang Mai. Not being overly fond of prints, I find that textured fabrics can add interest to what would otherwise be quite plain garments and this place does lots of nice textured cottons. They have also recently created a remnants section, which I discovered with the lovely <a href="http://thornberry.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Lara</a>. So I snapped up some of the more interesting pieces. The captions are linked and will take you to the shop if you want to know more.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw7oh0VkYJy4HkL79dWb39kS4v3VJn0UcL0cNIaAzHgzBzBg0jtdxmWAuV-ha-KZONczQW3mGeLekQ7P2VbkjmKO5OGo0xEfd1Lb7XnNJ_L_lBLkRQFKUFvSal5H8iwTUvfyGJlhApGPf5/s1600/IMGP2246_Fotor.jpg" height="640" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="268" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/196666856/black-and-charcoal-textured-cotton-made?ref=shop_home_active_9" target="_blank">Black and charcoal textured cotton</a><br /><br />This is so lovely and light and sheer. Yes, you'd probably need a lining.<br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpPRaKTFHOrMePH8vQSIPe4JwyQf76aGC5vbPKc5VWr2K1Lk6mj9Fe-PnP_3mZPU1xktOLrMLGZc7H8p-XT-mSj8hrsLqjGT2PV_2GKYtCQyIJFM_uCmtSkjK10B6LKW8bxT4b4JbgTsEc/s1600/IMGP2251_Fotor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpPRaKTFHOrMePH8vQSIPe4JwyQf76aGC5vbPKc5VWr2K1Lk6mj9Fe-PnP_3mZPU1xktOLrMLGZc7H8p-XT-mSj8hrsLqjGT2PV_2GKYtCQyIJFM_uCmtSkjK10B6LKW8bxT4b4JbgTsEc/s1600/IMGP2251_Fotor.jpg" height="640" width="378" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/196678259/black-and-grey-geometric-print-cotton?ref=related-3" target="_blank">Black and grey geometric print</a><br /><br />My idea of a great print. Not too colourful and very geometric.<br /></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT6svRcLkqyzrw01Ak3wc80x-DqlOIkC5uK98Y5gQ63EjFnvEdo0NgjDEp8wwWP2oio1Pq-_vxOq2aGv6JXEeIbll04HeteQW4bWHgzK8jGbLMlc7ljet8maMyrvchniG5zzM-Wylg-T93/s1600/IMGP2263_Fotor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT6svRcLkqyzrw01Ak3wc80x-DqlOIkC5uK98Y5gQ63EjFnvEdo0NgjDEp8wwWP2oio1Pq-_vxOq2aGv6JXEeIbll04HeteQW4bWHgzK8jGbLMlc7ljet8maMyrvchniG5zzM-Wylg-T93/s1600/IMGP2263_Fotor.jpg" height="640" width="444" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/196680099/black-shirred-cotton-made-in-thailand?ref=related-2" target="_blank">Black shirred cotton</a><br /><br />I've never actually seen anything like this before. And obviously it isn't the best to photograph.<br /><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq_rfYQlWpfss5qg6cNmXm4GPjA1ckOeFrXYUoEUnFcvCfhsFTFQ46vX8xh9SUOzCTMvO6mQV8Rr_j8ofCuKphXzC3iCqCewlSV1rq_cI_1okDlm7C34QqYjlpVS1Bc0nfcva_bbYa262S/s1600/IMGP2270_Fotor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq_rfYQlWpfss5qg6cNmXm4GPjA1ckOeFrXYUoEUnFcvCfhsFTFQ46vX8xh9SUOzCTMvO6mQV8Rr_j8ofCuKphXzC3iCqCewlSV1rq_cI_1okDlm7C34QqYjlpVS1Bc0nfcva_bbYa262S/s1600/IMGP2270_Fotor.jpg" height="640" width="340" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/196670376/blue-and-grey-textured-cotton-made-in?ref=related-3" target="_blank">Blue and grey textured cotton</a><br /><br />Fabulous muted colours<br /></td></tr>
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<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh_th299RsCvqN6fKS1bdo-loV8eZCuVNvM1kfT5QfzrSbA02Ci3ReOULd4zYYg44skqikQFvTtW_knWB-N1VaTlYmSSwKAwRTzzNsAWBpu9KBlQ0Jd_ALkETE6dbNvE9ZLE9MVeMrJFVx/s1600/IMGP2258_Fotor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh_th299RsCvqN6fKS1bdo-loV8eZCuVNvM1kfT5QfzrSbA02Ci3ReOULd4zYYg44skqikQFvTtW_knWB-N1VaTlYmSSwKAwRTzzNsAWBpu9KBlQ0Jd_ALkETE6dbNvE9ZLE9MVeMrJFVx/s1600/IMGP2258_Fotor.jpg" height="640" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/196671162/silver-grey-small-seersucker-made-in?ref=related-3" target="_blank">Silver grey small seersucker</a><br /><br />This actually has been dyed with a bit of a distressed look. They aren't all creases.<br /></td></tr>
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<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZDFhvmRpqwEHEQu-2pfN3ZRxlvo0W8E4A1jcvxc8LMlBZbuJb31jXHtLRbUdEUqzG6EF6JKxOz76cetqaWp0cpbsFbCJZggQlr7wxg88E8v9BQcx8BLUTb34oG_vXIhAfV-JjyswoZ5nE/s1600/IMGP2284_Fotor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZDFhvmRpqwEHEQu-2pfN3ZRxlvo0W8E4A1jcvxc8LMlBZbuJb31jXHtLRbUdEUqzG6EF6JKxOz76cetqaWp0cpbsFbCJZggQlr7wxg88E8v9BQcx8BLUTb34oG_vXIhAfV-JjyswoZ5nE/s1600/IMGP2284_Fotor.jpg" height="640" width="394" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/196671600/stunning-striped-print-cotton-made-in?ref=listing-shop-header-3" target="_blank">Stunning stripes</a><br /><br />This cotton voile is so vibrant with a great mix of colours.<br /><br /></td></tr>
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<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQH1K-7Gizo0tfpIT_x9IpLfQGCtPFQ91qpgrTfJNplWZtkF3S7F3YfRyI3eriJPxuXy8xe7BWqmGaO19_Ii1Lx6pBwsMnhlqgPud5Ktq2XDxz6lSaRR7mm_XZ6EJb2HxKEIQCXdn2fLmJ/s1600/IMGP2238_Fotor_Fotor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQH1K-7Gizo0tfpIT_x9IpLfQGCtPFQ91qpgrTfJNplWZtkF3S7F3YfRyI3eriJPxuXy8xe7BWqmGaO19_Ii1Lx6pBwsMnhlqgPud5Ktq2XDxz6lSaRR7mm_XZ6EJb2HxKEIQCXdn2fLmJ/s1600/IMGP2238_Fotor_Fotor.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/196683485/dark-red-textured-cotton-made-in?ref=listing-shop-header-2" target="_blank">Dark red textured cotton</a><br /><br />This deep red has a self-check for textural interest.<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbW_zTYzAG5dYITyk_7aU8Dj6YPwRbg7P8vXPcX6jUXE9r_NyvP6bJsleRObHjVR43u2xu09qRIRqSLHO-zjZ1m7HpRuvH5PZTgIhvxd4k6C4BkYjMavlbcc-FODy4IY-7xxuUWm_BbxgQ/s1600/IMGP2230_Fotor_Fotor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbW_zTYzAG5dYITyk_7aU8Dj6YPwRbg7P8vXPcX6jUXE9r_NyvP6bJsleRObHjVR43u2xu09qRIRqSLHO-zjZ1m7HpRuvH5PZTgIhvxd4k6C4BkYjMavlbcc-FODy4IY-7xxuUWm_BbxgQ/s1600/IMGP2230_Fotor_Fotor.jpg" height="640" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/196684573/striped-seersucker-cotton-made-in?ref=listing-shop-header-1" target="_blank">Striped seersucke</a>r<br /><br />Large seersucker in summer stripes.<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpnnQqh9c2e6es-OSYdZm9PYIPYqjiKlRpeT3UMXBh1cYj7RwZR2vEpv7DyDBw19LdOEdIK0nrl8EJGbPe5WtTInJXKQM0BJU6aCIn_d1RkP-GKEh1RZCGrRZglVzNYP4ztco3-uHgatc0/s1600/IMGP2277_Fotor_Fotor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpnnQqh9c2e6es-OSYdZm9PYIPYqjiKlRpeT3UMXBh1cYj7RwZR2vEpv7DyDBw19LdOEdIK0nrl8EJGbPe5WtTInJXKQM0BJU6aCIn_d1RkP-GKEh1RZCGrRZglVzNYP4ztco3-uHgatc0/s1600/IMGP2277_Fotor_Fotor.jpg" height="640" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/196685275/white-with-grey-blue-spots-cotton-double?ref=listing-shop-header-0" target="_blank">Lots of spots</a><br /><br />This is actually double gauze and the spots are a steel grey/blue.<br /></td></tr>
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So what do you think about posts like this? </div>
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Are you happy to see them every few weeks (after all it is fabric)? </div>
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Do you never want to see another (after all it is just an ad)?</div>
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<a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/en/blog/10928885" title="Follow Creating my own happiness... one garment at a time on Bloglovin"><img alt="Follow on Bloglovin" border="0" src="http://www.bloglovin.com/widget/bilder/en/widget.gif?id=10928885" /></a></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06923857362067010449noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-419495781828736908.post-66748282121018023532014-07-08T20:27:00.000+07:002014-07-08T20:27:28.087+07:00Fabric shopping in Chiang MaiLast Friday I was fortunate to go fabric shopping in Chiang Mai with the lovely Lara from <a href="http://thornberry.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Thornberry</a>. You can read about it on her <a href="http://thornberry.wordpress.com/2014/07/05/thailand-day-ten-friday-in-chiang-mai-part-one/" target="_blank">blog </a>too if you want more details about Chiang Mai and the shopping experience. Plus of course Lara was in tourist mode so not only did she bring a camera but she actually used it. Unlike me.<br />
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It was so nice to meet Lara (and her lovely family - hi everyone!) and to go shopping with someone. This is usually a solitary pursuit since I don't know any other sewists in real life.<br />
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As well as buying fabric, we pored over clothes in small, local "boutiques"- checking out the details and how they were designed and made.<br />
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I didn't actually buy that much, after all I can go back next week if I wish. And I will be back soon. So what did I buy?<br />
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First up, we went to Ban Thai which sells locally produced machine-woven cottons. Both Lara and I bought this<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOtcQcH9dBKgW6H_BgN5WVkM2JLiQoHh2_nCRNijOgC2HHYxipAk6T6FWAc7B-M38A7E4lfe1Af24MO1yIIW6jC0BYO5hi9eCmYybFebfPIM3k8rwEq9luXhIsKJnkQKvxG_o5exB1BZNX/s1600/IMGP2160.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOtcQcH9dBKgW6H_BgN5WVkM2JLiQoHh2_nCRNijOgC2HHYxipAk6T6FWAc7B-M38A7E4lfe1Af24MO1yIIW6jC0BYO5hi9eCmYybFebfPIM3k8rwEq9luXhIsKJnkQKvxG_o5exB1BZNX/s1600/IMGP2160.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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It is black and grey double gauze and the reverse side looks like this<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggF_CHd2e-8qQtce6XmhasWh-oeer2rSW4P_foeOUl8aUszqhFuPJ9lUUter_EljGGlw8tbEo8Sm3owx8di2mAIlGp2IY3vh7g_CU6L6j5QzcbS8rvml7k7R4oTt1mIMyiA9lW483eASU2/s1600/IMGP2171.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggF_CHd2e-8qQtce6XmhasWh-oeer2rSW4P_foeOUl8aUszqhFuPJ9lUUter_EljGGlw8tbEo8Sm3owx8di2mAIlGp2IY3vh7g_CU6L6j5QzcbS8rvml7k7R4oTt1mIMyiA9lW483eASU2/s1600/IMGP2171.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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Of course we both immediately said "colour blocking!" So it will be interesting to see what we both do with it. And yes, it is black but I took these at night after waiting for several days for some sunshine. I decided I really needed to just do this now because when the sun does shine I will be very busy photographing all the lovely new fabric I bought for the shop.<br />
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I also bought this intriguing fabric which appears to be samples of fancy stitching/machine embroidery/whatever all stitched together. It was impossible to photograph all of it so here are some shots of the individual 'rows'.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBiNl7FjuFU0Qkk5EKb4zWWCSFpmjfeM3ABcIaZTalCSRHbmXWrjz1fOHgud7d1gyuIidx1Iw4i59WGNt110CvpV42E-vLMtUMjbWX-ZjT258zSmr2HAuAtaGoz6PPPmIs4i8ND_7q7FRv/s1600/IMGP2161.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBiNl7FjuFU0Qkk5EKb4zWWCSFpmjfeM3ABcIaZTalCSRHbmXWrjz1fOHgud7d1gyuIidx1Iw4i59WGNt110CvpV42E-vLMtUMjbWX-ZjT258zSmr2HAuAtaGoz6PPPmIs4i8ND_7q7FRv/s1600/IMGP2161.JPG" height="440" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw43Inux6ETXOWkqiDonfjEzR24r7IsmS5vAbz8wJ9lr_6c2tvlJcH1nIP2l_wryXz0P45OblSNaa6jO_JOFUiGNM9tnzSEgF1m40OcRYCvddClbiXlGJbXikdY7pB0Ob45psugjH9yTKT/s1600/IMGP2164+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw43Inux6ETXOWkqiDonfjEzR24r7IsmS5vAbz8wJ9lr_6c2tvlJcH1nIP2l_wryXz0P45OblSNaa6jO_JOFUiGNM9tnzSEgF1m40OcRYCvddClbiXlGJbXikdY7pB0Ob45psugjH9yTKT/s1600/IMGP2164+(2).JPG" height="576" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghr5y1MI8r5_oESYfMFt-7Znu4e5_0hQPbAu41QL2ZZTjSr71itKoOJHdr_PbfzNQ0CLThx93L4v7zcfXBLoAaOymn0uOYBCVOQCkLYrIl1-wHfMr6sJevVkAVyatw8XXpBXZ5YHS3dXEz/s1600/IMGP2165+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghr5y1MI8r5_oESYfMFt-7Znu4e5_0hQPbAu41QL2ZZTjSr71itKoOJHdr_PbfzNQ0CLThx93L4v7zcfXBLoAaOymn0uOYBCVOQCkLYrIl1-wHfMr6sJevVkAVyatw8XXpBXZ5YHS3dXEz/s1600/IMGP2165+(2).JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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And yes that is my shadow. Oops.<br />
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Now obviously each section is not very wide but I'm sure that at least some are wide enough to become yokes on my beloved <a href="http://voguepatterns.mccall.com/v8805-products-22887.php?page_id=857&search_control=display&list=search" target="_blank">V8805</a>. The narrower ones could be used for neck bands or even hem bands. I'm sure I'll find a use for them.<br />
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I also bought some plain black stretch denim which I didn't even bother to photograph. Becuase really it is just black fabric and you all know what it looks like. This will become a pair of Style Arc <a href="http://www.stylearc.com.au/stylearc/index.php?page=shop.product_details&category_id=2&flypage=flypage.tpl&product_id=534&option=com_virtuemart&Itemid=4" target="_blank">Barb </a>pants. I have already made a very wearable muslin, which I actually wore on our fabric shopping expedition, so expect a post on those soon.<br />
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But my buy of the day was definitely this<br />
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It was impossible to photograph well as each of the white semi-circles are about 40cm (16").<br />
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This photograph shows better how they are offset from one another. And apologies again for the shadow.<br />
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Now such a dramatic graphic print obviously needs a plain (and large) canvas. I'm thinking of the <a href="http://tessuti.blogspot.com/2014/02/a-new-pattern-meet-pia.html" target="_blank">Tessuti Pia</a>.<br />
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I've been thinking about it for a while and while it is outside my comfort zone I definitely want to be a little more adventurous. I also figure that if it looks dreadful, I will be able to salvage a top and recut another skirt.<br />
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And it is black and white and the Monthly Stitch are having mono-sewn month so that fits. It will also be my Make a Garment a Month for July. And it is my birthday early in August and would make a great birthday dress. So it ticks lots of boxes.<br />
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What do you think? Is the Pia a good choice? Have you made it? Or do you have any other suggestions that might suit my very dramatic fabric?<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06923857362067010449noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-419495781828736908.post-45512913640089915662014-07-03T09:27:00.001+07:002014-07-08T07:57:29.559+07:00The grape dressThis dress almost didn't get made. You see when I first saw, and bought, this fabric, I thought it had a random swirly pattern. See what I mean?<br />
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However, when I was ironing it, after prewashing, I realised that they are actually grapes! Yikes, I wasn't sure that I actually wanted a dress with grapes on it.<br />
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But I did keep coming back to it and eventually made it into this<br />
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I only had a metre of the grapes fabric so I used some black textured cotton for the back.<br />
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This was made using <a href="http://www.printsew.com/x_free.php?brand=fre&pat=ksp2627&d=000000" target="_blank">KS2627</a> again, with self drafted tulip sleeves. This pattern is also free so if you're looking for a good, basic shift pattern give it a go.<br />
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I used this excellent <a href="http://sewmanyseams.blogspot.com/2012/01/tulip-sleeve-tutorial.html" target="_blank">tutorial </a>from sewmanyseams. I also used both fabrics in the sleeves.<br />
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Checking out those grapes. Or perhaps realising that i did actually have shoes on this time....<br />
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I have used this pattern several times already. The first time I started with a combination of size L and XL. Then I used M and L. I have now decided that I'm going to do an FBA on the size M.<br />
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I have come to this realisation because on this one I took it up another couple of centimetres at the shoulder seams and everything fits better, especially the sleeves. Although of course this also raised the bust darts which then had to be lowered on the actual dress after they had already been sewn:)<br />
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I also think this soft drapey rayon it actually too lightweight for a dress. It probably would have been better as a blouse. And this pattern will make great simple woven Ts once I've done that FBA.<br />
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Oh, well. The dress is extremely cool and comfortable and easy to wear.<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06923857362067010449noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-419495781828736908.post-80947226360113116242014-06-25T12:25:00.000+07:002014-06-25T12:25:32.385+07:00Summer tops and a questionSo lots of sewing and sewing related activities around here but as usual the photography part has been a hold up. It is rainy season here so lots of overcast skies and dark clouds so apologies in advance for some dodgy photos.<br />
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I whipped up a couple of quick summer tops. One is good, the other not so much. So let's start with the good.<br />
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Yes, you guessed right. It's another top version of <a href="https://www.blogger.com/"><span id="goog_201917465"></span>V8805<span id="goog_201917466"></span></a>.<br />
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It is great for using up relatively small leftovers from other projects. Not much else to say about this really. I've made it <a href="http://notionallybetter.blogspot.com/2014_04_01_archive.html" target="_blank">several times before</a> as dresses, tunics and tops.<br />
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Before this, I made a top version of KS2627. Which for some reason I cannot actually link to at the moment. Sorry.<br />
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Actually I first used this as a muslin for the Going <a href="http://notionallybetter.blogspot.com/2014/05/going-globalgoing-thai.html" target="_blank">Thai </a>dress, then recut the bodice using KS2627 so that I could have a trial run of tulip sleeves. I used this excellent <a href="http://sewmanyseams.blogspot.com/2012/01/tulip-sleeve-tutorial.html" target="_blank">tutorial </a> from sewmanyseams.<br />
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It was surprisingly simple really.<br />
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I actually left more sleeve than is recommended but it still works ok. Although I did it 'properly' on my next make, a dress that deserves it's own post, and some decent photos, so hopefully that won't be too far away.<br />
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I don't actually like this top much. I actually only bothered finishing it because of the colour. It's maroon and we were going to a friend's place to watch the state of origin. (Didn't help QLD much obviously). Although I must admit the double fold bias binding, which I bought at my local fabric shop, is glorious to use. It is really soft cotton and just lovely so you may be seeing more of this in the future.<br />
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So now to the question. This is the first photo I took of this top.<br />
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Check out that colour! This was taken at the same time as the others in direct sunlight. Can cameras lose the ability to accurately show one particular colour? Because look at this<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT1wZ7HNBW3dmdMcLEBuneoB7mPbq3j9V5kFSkJSB0q2WL4HjrDg3QTaHS08O14o40i2ni3RzATz4qahu6kC4P9ISkig2ofQwM_6kwrGt8o60CQVozqKBII4q0OpFBL9QepU20ptHzBSyd/s1600/IMGP2097.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT1wZ7HNBW3dmdMcLEBuneoB7mPbq3j9V5kFSkJSB0q2WL4HjrDg3QTaHS08O14o40i2ni3RzATz4qahu6kC4P9ISkig2ofQwM_6kwrGt8o60CQVozqKBII4q0OpFBL9QepU20ptHzBSyd/s1600/IMGP2097.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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This fabric is cherry red.<br />
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I have spent two days trying to photograph it in varying light conditions and every time it comes out some shade of fuschia. I have been photographing other fabric at the same time, although different colours, with no problems. It seems that shades of red are the issue. Any ideas, hints, tips, suggestions?<br />
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Ok, I'm off to print off my free copy of the Style Arc Barb pants. Yes, I did say free! If you sign up for their newsletter they send you a free PDF of the Barb pants. Many thanks to <a href="http://clothingengineer.com/2014/06/style-arc-barb-promo/" target="_blank">The Clothing Engineer</a> for letting us know about this. This is the place to get the low down on Style Arc patterns and see some really great sewing so do pop over and have a look.<br />
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Cheers everybody<br />
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<a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/en/blog/10928885" title="Follow Creating my own happiness... one garment at a time on Bloglovin"><img alt="Follow on Bloglovin" border="0" src="http://www.bloglovin.com/widget/bilder/en/widget.gif?id=10928885" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06923857362067010449noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-419495781828736908.post-92086703999299715412014-06-04T17:00:00.003+07:002014-06-04T17:00:53.407+07:00Truly amazing handmade laceThis amazing fan is actually handmade lace and took over 13 years to make! Read the full story <a href="http://chiangmainews.com/ecmn/viewfa.php?id=4062" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFvUEtHOHfDb9W2MtznrN8Gptz3X1Goghegt3INeCp0ShbRBfVG2wP4tl-O0uRwNUty654XQHoO1sfMGllKQg1kMDAvvSQ6FDXhM8vhQpsLh2_HpGhdUKuC1zkXNr16tW9K8gVTP-09pSb/s1600/Lady-of-Lace_119.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFvUEtHOHfDb9W2MtznrN8Gptz3X1Goghegt3INeCp0ShbRBfVG2wP4tl-O0uRwNUty654XQHoO1sfMGllKQg1kMDAvvSQ6FDXhM8vhQpsLh2_HpGhdUKuC1zkXNr16tW9K8gVTP-09pSb/s1600/Lady-of-Lace_119.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/en/blog/10928885" title="Follow Creating my own happiness... one garment at a time on Bloglovin"><img alt="Follow on Bloglovin" border="0" src="http://www.bloglovin.com/widget/bilder/en/widget.gif?id=10928885" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06923857362067010449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-419495781828736908.post-21095660147417673242014-06-03T17:20:00.000+07:002014-06-03T17:20:20.221+07:00Time flies and all that...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="text-align: left;">I really didn't realise how far behind schedule I was on a few things, nor how long it's been since I posted until just now. I swear that the older I get, and the more fun I'm having, the faster the time flies. Believe me when I was working in the Middle East time just dragged but ever since I've been back I turn around twice and a month has gone by.</span></div>
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Which is why this still isn't finished, even though I planned to make it in April.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlT-pM5On5XJYEghddYPJw6wW4Ya_Elm6fD0kBVl8iOs3KbskLVRJRLYL4ntdtKU_wdCB1e2Ji8EIGmLuf_xt1nIjqF9Nb_q034Q81xS27W51LrqVN4TC8UbnHrnn_tU7fZbyzkS6ohiCU/s1600/IMGP1948.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlT-pM5On5XJYEghddYPJw6wW4Ya_Elm6fD0kBVl8iOs3KbskLVRJRLYL4ntdtKU_wdCB1e2Ji8EIGmLuf_xt1nIjqF9Nb_q034Q81xS27W51LrqVN4TC8UbnHrnn_tU7fZbyzkS6ohiCU/s1600/IMGP1948.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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It was actually coming along nicely... until I tried it on. Unfortunately, it is a bit too big. And also too long through the upper bodice - which is not an issue I've had before. Now with all the seaming it is a relatively simple task to make it smaller - although since I could probably lift it a couple of inches at the shoulder seams, that might require a little more thought.<br />
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But, and it is a big but, I am just not sure that it is me. I think it would have been me when I worked in universities but I work from home now and so I just don't think it is me anymore. I am also unsure about the whole <i>fit and flare</i> silhouette on me. I know that it is supposed to be flattering and show off the narrowest part of you but whilst my waist is technically my narrowest part (by actual measurement) it is proportionally speaking my largest part. And my hips are narrow (about 2 sizes smaller than my waist) and my bum is really flat so there is nothing to <i>flare</i> over. As much as I'm not terribly keen on the whole <i>women as fruit</i> system, maybe this is an apple thing? What do you think?<br />
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So it is sitting in a corner whilst I contemplate what to do with it. I am thinking of finishing it in its current size and giving it to my sister. I think it would probably fit her pretty much as is since she is taller than me and while our measurements are quite similar we are quite different shapes. Mmm will just have to think on it for a bit.....<br />
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So after this discovery, I thought I would whip up a quick floral skirt for week 2 of Project Sewn. Yes, I know it was ages ago. I reused my <a href="http://www.lekala.co/catalog/women/skirts/5025#sthash.BhsLJ0Fo.dpbs" target="_blank">Lekala 5025</a> pattern that I used for my very much loved <a href="http://notionallybetter.blogspot.com/2014/04/two-for-him-and-one-for-me.html" target="_blank">denim skirt</a> using this fabric<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv9AhXb6ereosz85ofJ5frtSrGI6Sou11vPJcTrUbW6MXi_FVlIb2tdFZb4mU1U5c-tlsmJl5ZLhXfRN_MjaksKG1yqT32OfU3Txpbl3vvJ7j6ibco2hxr9TQNXl7ENHhBpAhgd4KP_tzx/s1600/black+border06.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv9AhXb6ereosz85ofJ5frtSrGI6Sou11vPJcTrUbW6MXi_FVlIb2tdFZb4mU1U5c-tlsmJl5ZLhXfRN_MjaksKG1yqT32OfU3Txpbl3vvJ7j6ibco2hxr9TQNXl7ENHhBpAhgd4KP_tzx/s1600/black+border06.jpg" height="640" width="312" /></a></div>
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I thought I would be able to use the border print to good effect. I also knew that pattern matching would be necessary/difficult/impossible. Yes, I did think all of those things:) So I cut it all in a single layer, paying close attention etc, etc. Spent ages making sure the pattern matched across the front pockets. All going swimmingly until I tried to attach the centre front panel to the two side front panels. I just could not make it match even vaguely. And I tried, believe me I tried. And then I realised that the only piece I didn't cut single was the centre front panel. I cut it on the fold and of course it was a little off. Maybe a lot off.<br />
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So it too is in the corner whilst I contemplate what to do with it. I have enough fabric left to recut the centre front panel. Or I also have some nice solid black textured cotton which would work well with this fabric. Which of course would be the much quicker option. And probably what I'll do, probably in the next day or so.<br />
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So after both of these less-than-fabulous sewing experiences I needed a definite win and I needed it fast. So I made H another pair of shorts. I used the same pattern as last time, which is probably about the only pattern I'll ever use for him since it fits perfectly straight off. You can read about the first (two) pairs I made <a href="http://notionallybetter.blogspot.com/2014/04/two-for-him-and-one-for-me.html" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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This pic is overexposed in an attempt to make something visible. This fabric is the most saturated black, which looks fab IRL but doesn't do photos. The topstitching is dark grey for some subtle styling.<br />
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I used the <a href="http://grainlinestudio.com/2012/09/19/sewing-tutorial-inserting-a-fly-front-zipper/" target="_blank">tutorial </a>from Grainline Studios again for the fly and it came together with no problems.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBZCaubfexOJXZR7JUBKpW8rYW_vMRccLhkokt1q5B_0DJWPiLTYkhdQvWNP45COM9uC24pIu9QLfebhBJTKUZDHV6v0j2YpAJt-fBi6FR2vc9P-1tYQPpCPq2C94XRHKKSkQnu9SY14RQ/s1600/IMGP2016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBZCaubfexOJXZR7JUBKpW8rYW_vMRccLhkokt1q5B_0DJWPiLTYkhdQvWNP45COM9uC24pIu9QLfebhBJTKUZDHV6v0j2YpAJt-fBi6FR2vc9P-1tYQPpCPq2C94XRHKKSkQnu9SY14RQ/s1600/IMGP2016.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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Now I know that a lot is written about sewing for others but I really like sewing for H. He is really easy to fit and fairly easy to please. He is also really grateful and loves, and wears frequently, everything I have made for him. Which lets face it is actually only 3 pairs of shorts and a shirt.<br />
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I have some lovely linen stashed to make him another shirt. But I think I'll hang on to it for when I next need a quick fix.<br />
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What do you think about fit and flare? Are they for you? Are they for apples?Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06923857362067010449noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-419495781828736908.post-57272109145328910482014-05-22T19:06:00.000+07:002014-05-23T08:44:17.967+07:00Going Global;Going ThaiDon't you love Project Sewn? I really admire the participants in the official competition but also really like seeing what all the participants in the sew along do. But it has never before occurred to me to participate myself. Until this time. As soon as I saw the Going Global theme, I knew exactly what I was going to make; the country, the design and the fabric.<br />
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To me it was obvious that I would choose my adopted home of Thailand as the country of influence, so to speak. I also knew that I wanted to incorporate a couple of elements that seem very "Thai contemporary" (for want of a better description) to me and I absolutely knew that it had to be local mudmee (ikat) fabric.<br />
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So this is what I came up with. (yes, I drafted it myself:)<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9qj-DS6wjtdzRmjibWIdORGKmQdLZDt4ZgQcfgBxkG6HlBG7LmqaxueEx_Nmn6Nbl5NxODyUe2_P14W3vNLSITTJAZoi-iYDESDzGzlor-024H0ZX_gH1BeUVP3icphravtmVtzBesyb3/s1600/IMGP2030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9qj-DS6wjtdzRmjibWIdORGKmQdLZDt4ZgQcfgBxkG6HlBG7LmqaxueEx_Nmn6Nbl5NxODyUe2_P14W3vNLSITTJAZoi-iYDESDzGzlor-024H0ZX_gH1BeUVP3icphravtmVtzBesyb3/s1600/IMGP2030.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Thai design</td></tr>
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The two main design elements were the tucks on the upper bodice and the both cut-on and sewn-on godets. You can see the tucks on the left upper bodice above. And here's a close up..<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt-HP-0J-V051vf-Tnt9Bk-KIxxn5cxlwQcCSo4jWkX0i9YXF0QsbkneNkyNu5tAGnFnr7ixBdSgHO7k0hbLAEMwVg1LLY1nK1Nc2xD3WosjqaFQZEj62GRcVme7p-ZYnvjwThxPVK5d0H/s1600/IMGP2060.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt-HP-0J-V051vf-Tnt9Bk-KIxxn5cxlwQcCSo4jWkX0i9YXF0QsbkneNkyNu5tAGnFnr7ixBdSgHO7k0hbLAEMwVg1LLY1nK1Nc2xD3WosjqaFQZEj62GRcVme7p-ZYnvjwThxPVK5d0H/s1600/IMGP2060.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Upper bodice tucks</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqJ06ooCBed7la9EQcO3CofFhbUA9abbcogfOBxOeiVOM-Z_vGqOXyB-1CFj1vey5cBwAkAONvNvAvdeBX5a5w03Rw5f-fnU_nXWuJO83ld3GFWFKzXgNWsr1qjWujyH_YihdKS5d74Wty/s1600/IMGP2032.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqJ06ooCBed7la9EQcO3CofFhbUA9abbcogfOBxOeiVOM-Z_vGqOXyB-1CFj1vey5cBwAkAONvNvAvdeBX5a5w03Rw5f-fnU_nXWuJO83ld3GFWFKzXgNWsr1qjWujyH_YihdKS5d74Wty/s1600/IMGP2032.JPG" height="640" width="544" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sewn-on godet</td></tr>
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Did you notice my sewn-on godet?</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVwj-wVYo9hyphenhyphenB197RCXs2H-tP8PKkvM1KoSwkFqZJcqXGO4u4pJTsDkh-YPKbGeAV9e5LtcDZw5OC5QrXcMD4u0aJJSjUdKKl99ofvOO8p7xuY-HmOlSdCfBRYojK76ka7w3KGj1xcSyGA/s1600/IMGP2044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVwj-wVYo9hyphenhyphenB197RCXs2H-tP8PKkvM1KoSwkFqZJcqXGO4u4pJTsDkh-YPKbGeAV9e5LtcDZw5OC5QrXcMD4u0aJJSjUdKKl99ofvOO8p7xuY-HmOlSdCfBRYojK76ka7w3KGj1xcSyGA/s1600/IMGP2044.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cut-on godet</td></tr>
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And the cut-on godet side.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgb0HU3KIVAXlOtlh-p5ibLeRd0EpzQdk9etyyD0zf-oRdy-oEqi0BoXtwNme33K-YwCCvbXKzpW_6LLfCDirg1MDVDPH7AekCvBCKYDFlIZNze4sLlBvH2tAq0BIUx9UFqTAXVASf2BTx/s1600/IMGP2061.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgb0HU3KIVAXlOtlh-p5ibLeRd0EpzQdk9etyyD0zf-oRdy-oEqi0BoXtwNme33K-YwCCvbXKzpW_6LLfCDirg1MDVDPH7AekCvBCKYDFlIZNze4sLlBvH2tAq0BIUx9UFqTAXVASf2BTx/s1600/IMGP2061.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gorgeous wooden buttons</td></tr>
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These lovely wooden buttons are reminiscent of coconut shell buttons, which would certainly be more 'traditional' but to me scream 'made for tourists'.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTWWVX9EtMUnIDHmtsqbjocjobazXwNV4MKgjQa1r-WsrKcDqEcmQiZ7D0ho_7aw-tHLlPfc3LKI5N1QGcfwWNjn-OHlDFDgryOQEiLoVnF57gytiKdcNIcWpfjZ8wy4xn62kMSP2TCdmM/s1600/IMGP2047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTWWVX9EtMUnIDHmtsqbjocjobazXwNV4MKgjQa1r-WsrKcDqEcmQiZ7D0ho_7aw-tHLlPfc3LKI5N1QGcfwWNjn-OHlDFDgryOQEiLoVnF57gytiKdcNIcWpfjZ8wy4xn62kMSP2TCdmM/s1600/IMGP2047.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Back view</td></tr>
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And a (very crooked) back view where you can just make out the lines of both types of godet. And the fab use of the different 'stripes' of the fabric. Yes, I am mighty proud of that:)<br />
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I post full construction details in a post tomorrow. For now I'm off to have a well-deserved drink and bask in the glow of a project that turned out exactly the way I envisioned it....<br />
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And if you're of a mind to, you might like to pop on over to <a href="http://www.projectsewn.com/2014/05/week-3-going-global-fashion-challenge.html" target="_blank">Project Sewn</a>, check out the sew along entries and perhaps even vote for me.....<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06923857362067010449noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-419495781828736908.post-12204859106084323292014-05-01T09:23:00.001+07:002014-05-01T09:23:30.405+07:00It's raining blog postsSo I bet (hope) are you now all hearing "It's raining men, hallelujah...." I really loved dancing to that back in the day.<br />
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But rain is the reason for the sudden and long overdue flurry of activity. It has finally rained after a couple of truly awful weeks of 40C+ temps. And on top of the heat, every afternoon we have had lots of dark clouds and thunder leading to high hopes of the glorious relief that a thunderstorm brings. Only to have those hopes dashed... seriously, it has been emotionally draining. And way too hot to sew, to blog or to do just about anything but lie in a puddle of sweat moaning about the heat.<br />
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There is so much to catch up on.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUPwOWZfBM0SOfV26KVYNH9GnKtZDj_Pi6v5oGux08mS5mwoW5t_RHPUZrb_U4k7fPRl0G3EXd3pRd0mfEmYnMF13S3iF3gNHYXaTvl0xJPJUbVnEtuOO5qVNNStwr69Tu5CPhF_rtWadO/s1600/liebster.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUPwOWZfBM0SOfV26KVYNH9GnKtZDj_Pi6v5oGux08mS5mwoW5t_RHPUZrb_U4k7fPRl0G3EXd3pRd0mfEmYnMF13S3iF3gNHYXaTvl0xJPJUbVnEtuOO5qVNNStwr69Tu5CPhF_rtWadO/s1600/liebster.png" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
The very kind Lyric from <a href="http://sewcroandquilt.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Sewcroandquilt </a>has nominated me for a Liebster award. And I will do a proper post with everything about that soon but I didn't want to leave it any longer to at least express my gratitude. I am tickled pink. In the meantime, why don't you pop over and check out her blog.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgflXG9Rd-MweGrQS36cKdqyvJ-yznbQPr1S6m5z2XHlOtKaV8liXSpYlmluzRonA08sLneM6k37z68xehj53QT47jfsumofSK6l8nLKiQK29DVqcq_U7yESbKNO9tuSS9wkiLfOrLnI6RP/s1600/home-top-logo.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgflXG9Rd-MweGrQS36cKdqyvJ-yznbQPr1S6m5z2XHlOtKaV8liXSpYlmluzRonA08sLneM6k37z68xehj53QT47jfsumofSK6l8nLKiQK29DVqcq_U7yESbKNO9tuSS9wkiLfOrLnI6RP/s1600/home-top-logo.png" height="188" width="320" /></a><br />
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It was also <a href="http://fashionrevolution.org/" target="_blank">Fashion Revolution Day </a>and yes I missed that too.<br />
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I had really wanted to participate but figured that wearing my sarong inside out around the house wasn't going to be much of a contribution.<br />
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I did think it was interesting though how many sewists mentioned that they would like to know more about where their fabric comes from. This is something that interests me greatly and something I have been trying to gather more information on so I hope to have more posts on that in the future. However, in the meantime all the fabrics listed as handwoven in my etsy shop (there is a link in the sidebar) are generally produced by women working in their own homes. This also allows them to take care of children and other family members, which is very important in a country with basically no social welfare system. These women work for themselves although often under the auspices of <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/One_Tambon_One_Product" target="_blank">OTOP</a> which is a government program to support locally made products.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPUmGGY3ZfRM-XGuXiWB8CS9HWbgg4Hf9yVou67K3j4fudMRHEXyAA8hhwgdxfffvDqCt7B5oAC2jq-nsO9tDz_MGUwzctb_2H-hMkc_zcHqxIsUltWgxv5OGpKYrCH4uSANOCtcq8S2Wv/s1600/otop2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPUmGGY3ZfRM-XGuXiWB8CS9HWbgg4Hf9yVou67K3j4fudMRHEXyAA8hhwgdxfffvDqCt7B5oAC2jq-nsO9tDz_MGUwzctb_2H-hMkc_zcHqxIsUltWgxv5OGpKYrCH4uSANOCtcq8S2Wv/s1600/otop2.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a></div>
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This program provides an opportunity to sell and market products collectively even though they are often made by individuals in their own homes. As well as the immediate benefits for communities through the sales of local products, the OTOP initiative has halted, and in many cases reversed, the decline in many traditional crafts and skills. So definitely a worthwhile initiative which I am in no way affiliated with except that it allows me to buy truly beautiful fabrics knowing that they were created locally and without exploitation.<br />
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In totally non-sewing related news, one of my orchids flowered. Yay!!! I love orchids and have a few. They all seem to grow really well but some of them (mostly the more unusual ones) don't flower very often or at least they don't for me. So I am fairly stoked by this, plus another will be flowering in a few days. This makes me happy.<br />
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As I mentioned earlier this infernal heat has effectively prevented sewing since I discovered that I was leaving sweat stains as I went. So I am hoping to jump back in to that today. But this does mean that April's Make a Garment a Month will not be finished on time. But I am still hopeful for only a few days late if all goes well. And seriously is it really May already?<br />
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I hope to be back soon with some actual sewing.....<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06923857362067010449noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-419495781828736908.post-69516459492641069542014-05-01T09:01:00.000+07:002014-05-01T09:01:08.897+07:00Double Kwik SewYes another Sewing Double post prompted by the Monthly Stitch challenge. And two posts in two days - will the wonders never cease?<br />
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This Kwik Sew pattern, <a href="http://www.printsew.com/x_details.php?uniqueid=t52289ED99D40" target="_blank">KS2627</a>, is now my TNT shift dress pattern. I have made two dresses and one top from it so far. And yes, it is so far - there will be more.<br />
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This is my first (and favourite) version.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioYXgSia32X8MEw0nzCKYafoZ7IA8lAT1kj3ubilS6Rh25oRsHlzbP_48WjLmfAMwnXOf1U8_tK-cDS5byf3GU87TgD8sJWNTDItFC4fFIRDAsTzxbutRS2e5QHSFvyDR2vU_i0R_aKCYi/s1600/IMGP1908+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioYXgSia32X8MEw0nzCKYafoZ7IA8lAT1kj3ubilS6Rh25oRsHlzbP_48WjLmfAMwnXOf1U8_tK-cDS5byf3GU87TgD8sJWNTDItFC4fFIRDAsTzxbutRS2e5QHSFvyDR2vU_i0R_aKCYi/s1600/IMGP1908+(2).JPG" height="640" width="366" /></a></div>
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It is navy cotton (made here in Thailand) with a textured self-stripe and a white woven border in a traditional(ish) motif.<br />
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Now if you've visited this blog before you will know (since I'm often moaning about it) just how hot it can be and so I am always looking for cool and comfortable. I am also not averse to a quick and simple sew and this Kwik Sew lives up the name. Oh and it's free. What's not to like.<br />
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I sorted out the admittedly minimal adjustments in my wearable muslin.<br />
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Which, yes I know, is a top. I almost always make a top first to sort out the fitting before making a dress. I HATE making muslins unless they are of the wearable variety. This also allows me to actually wear the muslin and see how it performs rather than being ok for 5 minutes in front of a mirror. I didn't actually need many adjustments once I used the correct pattern sizes. (Although that wasn't nearly as simple as it sounds. You can read more about that <a href="http://notionallybetter.blogspot.com/2014/02/two-wearable-muslins.html" target="_blank">here</a>.)<br />
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For my second version I made a couple of design changes. Probably one too many to be honest.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSF6CiVGcx_TXSvDU7ebmkdyWSORn3KS7wV-GdqYMEwiINzyv02zeT3UmieEp2IXRiMyTwmRnYdGzTAKfQFgWxBaI2vsM8n_z2-Bv-L8r2LDvsOOvOeaRuYASmgsj46I7Az7YD7_1IXELV/s1600/IMGP1935.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSF6CiVGcx_TXSvDU7ebmkdyWSORn3KS7wV-GdqYMEwiINzyv02zeT3UmieEp2IXRiMyTwmRnYdGzTAKfQFgWxBaI2vsM8n_z2-Bv-L8r2LDvsOOvOeaRuYASmgsj46I7Az7YD7_1IXELV/s1600/IMGP1935.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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I rotated the bust darts to the shoulder and made a square neck. But it seems that both of these can result in a little more room across the upper chest so both together was maybe not such a good idea. Or maybe both together when you don't actually know what you're doing isn't such a great idea. You can read more about that <a href="http://notionallybetter.blogspot.com/2014/03/make-garment-month-march-complete.html" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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Having said that, this dress is in high rotation. It is wonderfully cool, doesn't crease during wear and only needs a very quick <strike>press</strike> touch of the iron. Did anyone else call this 'pressing' before they began to sew? Seriously, in our house a quick press meant it didn't mean much ironing.<br />
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As I've said before, I really like simple designs as I hate fidgeting with clothes. Don't like worrying about where/how they're sitting. Don't like fitted just about anything, hate belts/ties/etc. Ok, I'm sure you get the picture. So this pattern is great for both tops and dresses that are cool, comfortable and easy to wear. I have already drafted tulip sleeves for it and plan to start that version very soon.<br />
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I'd also like to draft kimono sleeves on to it. Can anyone point me in the direction of a good tutorial for this?<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06923857362067010449noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-419495781828736908.post-37013144169716765682014-04-30T09:35:00.000+07:002014-04-30T09:35:24.307+07:00Double Sewing Double:Two dresses & two topsSo I've joined the Monthly Stitch and this month's challenge is Sewing Double. And I just so happen to have finished a second version of <a href="http://voguepatterns.mccall.com/v8805-products-22887.php?page_id=174" target="_blank">V8805</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwCPgwnhsbUnuhlLrZOCYA0isTrocKOQOeAEow9mUsUFYPWhgeHpDX_1D2Twy8XCos9xA0cuoSbAfAqEij49Ys0bNZKKHp7ajJFy1hfwFtx4ItBMg02dgGZwtDIwhad-5liV4xH5VkYy1U/s1600/IMGP1979.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwCPgwnhsbUnuhlLrZOCYA0isTrocKOQOeAEow9mUsUFYPWhgeHpDX_1D2Twy8XCos9xA0cuoSbAfAqEij49Ys0bNZKKHp7ajJFy1hfwFtx4ItBMg02dgGZwtDIwhad-5liV4xH5VkYy1U/s1600/IMGP1979.JPG" height="640" width="320" /></a></div>
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You can read more about that <a href="http://notionallybetter.blogspot.com/2014/04/happy-new-year.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
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And this is my first version which was made in November.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJyQJQJya649YXp8rFBUE-3ZeZWDozZ1RAfcCy5astqYJj2za0D4pSigwQ_3GxA-zxBzFZQNZ0Y2B0Zh3hI9MTLO31KkSNTaSG2HfLmbVgwptjde_HqlPMOU_uxk6T7uPMH1dV8d0S6PhQ/s1600/dress10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJyQJQJya649YXp8rFBUE-3ZeZWDozZ1RAfcCy5astqYJj2za0D4pSigwQ_3GxA-zxBzFZQNZ0Y2B0Zh3hI9MTLO31KkSNTaSG2HfLmbVgwptjde_HqlPMOU_uxk6T7uPMH1dV8d0S6PhQ/s1600/dress10.jpg" height="640" width="406" /></a></div>
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You can read more about that <a href="http://notionallybetter.blogspot.com/2013/11/complete-make-garment-month-november.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
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But that's not all folks... I have also made a blouse and tunic version of this very versatile pattern.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFhZT_rW7auTcC6u89vGmWJ6SiuXymfoxMaRKu5NNrkUd6S3NttaBdQr_42TY0br9umfvuXzyIxD4_x2L7k5NzUUX_e5XQUIiFBj6agVYp9fcM0LULlsvwpm92SE5cs3udKQbMqGHL_K-G/s1600/navy+stripe+tunic+06_Fotor_Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFhZT_rW7auTcC6u89vGmWJ6SiuXymfoxMaRKu5NNrkUd6S3NttaBdQr_42TY0br9umfvuXzyIxD4_x2L7k5NzUUX_e5XQUIiFBj6agVYp9fcM0LULlsvwpm92SE5cs3udKQbMqGHL_K-G/s1600/navy+stripe+tunic+06_Fotor_Collage.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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And I'm not finished with it either. I have several more ideas buzzing around, especially for blouses. Oh and maybe dresses too...</div>
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What about you? Have you been sewing double? Do tell...</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06923857362067010449noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-419495781828736908.post-7608177154140274062014-04-13T10:22:00.000+07:002014-04-13T10:22:30.145+07:00Happy New Year<br />
or Sawadee Pee Mai as we say here. Yes, it really is new year or <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Songkran_%28Thailand%29" target="_blank">Songkran </a> as we call it here. It is several days (depending on your stamina) of mayhem, madness and fun. It involves lots of water, and food and drink.<br />
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Besides the traditional water throwing there are usually lots of other social gatherings as many Thais who live in other places come home to celebrate. So I decided I wanted something a-little-bit-but-not-too-much Thai to wear.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFgyfd9oE5BOqGsxUHvGW9c8M-iA-K4xrC4Z5KBFqwpXslkaFniFFl9L7r5cVU-qWM2M-_wghePTa8qGvNMMkTVr2sKQyLNv2WQ_vCa0F0pyb_w8FkY7so7UhOflphqmTRDpojzEDlfA7q/s1600/IMGP1972.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFgyfd9oE5BOqGsxUHvGW9c8M-iA-K4xrC4Z5KBFqwpXslkaFniFFl9L7r5cVU-qWM2M-_wghePTa8qGvNMMkTVr2sKQyLNv2WQ_vCa0F0pyb_w8FkY7so7UhOflphqmTRDpojzEDlfA7q/s1600/IMGP1972.JPG" height="640" width="346" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">V8805</td></tr>
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I used <a href="http://voguepatterns.mccall.com/v8805-products-22887.php?page_id=174" target="_blank">V8805 </a>(again) but with only one lower bodice piece. I also used some of my gorgeous mudmee (ikat) fabric, which is handwoven here in Lampang. You can buy some here.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtu0zK0OTuR23Xg0kPWom8d4PcNRM4EF_0AoAyt-TmImbKzptq7fDxl83IsInIq8YgE2d-LXctR946Kh55pSkr-3RGCLZgQO7_w3a0fVSvCQlYjcO4k7WCBmnJW_Tf0G8qVvyNJrMmWuCB/s1600/IMGP1973.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtu0zK0OTuR23Xg0kPWom8d4PcNRM4EF_0AoAyt-TmImbKzptq7fDxl83IsInIq8YgE2d-LXctR946Kh55pSkr-3RGCLZgQO7_w3a0fVSvCQlYjcO4k7WCBmnJW_Tf0G8qVvyNJrMmWuCB/s1600/IMGP1973.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">French seams</td></tr>
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Since I had made this pattern <a href="http://notionallybetter.blogspot.com/2013/11/complete-make-garment-month-november.html" target="_blank">before</a>, it came together really quickly and easily. Unfortunately this fabric frays when you look at it so I tried to be really careful and staystitched everything immediately. I also used french seams throughout.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiisXiHf579Er_wZG5I4XIgWTQxQYqKU-LHJ2BzRaXhB_QHLCj-qdn2R5_Yp1ZXhEC4t4-aFnPfWqtiUVEgika2g_GdlX_yzLyrfzyTHcTwczdaR_cIFk_8wAZ8UjzA4bY6ECAHBDjTNpR1/s1600/IMGP1976.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiisXiHf579Er_wZG5I4XIgWTQxQYqKU-LHJ2BzRaXhB_QHLCj-qdn2R5_Yp1ZXhEC4t4-aFnPfWqtiUVEgika2g_GdlX_yzLyrfzyTHcTwczdaR_cIFk_8wAZ8UjzA4bY6ECAHBDjTNpR1/s1600/IMGP1976.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">me made bias binding</td></tr>
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And made my own bias binding. Not an easy task in this fabric but well worth the effort, I think.<br />
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Not much more to say really. I wore it out on Friday night and it was everything I hoped it would be: cool and comfortable.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6hhXubdQn_E3TKogFoAT0MUZ_-MGBJoBMvGSujVsBjS06SHmIBky3JQDELul3tQ-w0171nIBm8_uWvAsi8Vp7kxgneUzG-dO3OlBS9spocLz3A4Yi30Ok-FFSzgxjtJANg01OREzpZzwX/s1600/IMGP1979.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6hhXubdQn_E3TKogFoAT0MUZ_-MGBJoBMvGSujVsBjS06SHmIBky3JQDELul3tQ-w0171nIBm8_uWvAsi8Vp7kxgneUzG-dO3OlBS9spocLz3A4Yi30Ok-FFSzgxjtJANg01OREzpZzwX/s1600/IMGP1979.JPG" height="640" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mudmee V8805</td></tr>
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This shows the colours most accurately.</div>
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So that was a relatively quick and very satisfying make, which I'm sure will get lots of wear. I also just realised that it also fits the <a href="http://themonthlystitch.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Monthly Stitch</a> Sewing Double challenge and the <a href="http://sewcialists.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Sewcialists </a> #pinkapril too. Now that's a winning combination.</div>
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Are you doing any double sewing? or pink sewing? or both?</div>
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