Sewing – Page 2 – Eclectic Seams

Another Wrap Dress – Simplicity 8735

August 5, 2019August 8, 2022 eclecticseams

Happy Monday everyone! I have been very busy but I’m finally back to sewing. I return from vacation and I started by cleaning my sewing area, which by the way is in the living room, so I can make space for some fabric I bought in Los Angeles. My fabric stash isn’t big but fabric starts to pile up quickly so I immediately started sewing. Before I left for vacation I cut a few patterns and the first one on my list was Simplicity 8735. This is only my second wrap dress, I don’t know why because they’re so cute and easy to make. I picked the long version with short sleeves in this Liverpool double knit I got from Fabric.com.

This dress feautures princess seams, has darts on the back bodice as well as the skirt front and back. This also comes with lenght and sleeves variations along with two skirt options slim or flared. The pattern also comes with separate pieces for B, C, and DD cups, which I think they’re very useful. knit and woven fabrics are suggested for this pattern, I decided to used this lighweight Liverpool Knit and it worked fine. I cut a size 6 for the top and 8 for the bottom, I would size up if using a non-stretch fabric. For refernce my measurements are 33 bust and 29 waist.

The instructions are very straightforward and easy to follow. The only thing I did differently was adding a 1″ interfacing strip to the front edge of the skirt, this makes hemming a lot easier for me. Knits are the devil and thats all I got say about that. Overall this is a great pattern, I highly recommend it and will definitely sew it again soon!

Handmade, PDF Patterns, Sewing

The Rosalinda Dress – Rosy Peña Patterns.

April 8, 2019August 8, 2022 eclecticseams

The Rosalinda Dress from Rosy Peña is the free pattern for the March/April issue of Sewn Magazine . One of my sewing goals for 2019 was to use more PDF patterns so I decided to give it a try. I printed the Rosalinda pattern at home because it only had 32 pages. It took me about 2 hours, included a run to the store because as usual I ran out of ink. The tapping takes me forever, definitely not the best thing for people with ADHD. I actually sent a few PDF patterns to an online printing service recommended by a fellow Sewist, (you can find it here) the shipping was fast and was very inexpensive. No more tapping for me. Let’s go back to the Rosalinda shall we?

This is a semi-fitted dress featuring a wide mock-neck or roll collar, center front and center back seams, and deep curved armholes. I used the front seam to my advantage by doing a chevron pattern using this striped fabric from my stash. I forgot the name of my fabric but it is very similar to a Liverpool Knit. I cut size XXS for the top and XS for the skirt. I only had a small issue, the armholes were gapping a little so I did the adjustment by the collar because I didn’t want to undo my side seams.

This is a very easy pattern, the instructions were simple and straightforward. This will definitely work best with medium weight fabrics for that loose fitting effect. This is the second time I work with stripped fabric and I had to brag about how good my lines matched. Figuring out the cutting layout takes a while but once you tackled that part the sewing is easy. I will make a little tutorial of how I matched these lines so check back soon. I can see a color blocking version of this in my future. Overall this a great pattern, I love how easy it is to sew and how versatile it is. You can put on heels and wear it to a cocktail party or put on snickers and take it to a ball game.

I highly recommend this pattern!

Sewing, Tops

Button Down Shirt-Simplicity 8830

March 26, 2019August 8, 2022 eclecticseams

I have been wanting to make a button down shirt for a while. This Simplicity 8830 has clean lines and easy to make. I used a Mickey Mouse print cotton I got at Joann’s. I was following the instructions and when I finished attaching the front pockets I realized they didn’t look like the picture on the envelope. I know Mimi has a sew a long video on You Tube for each of her patterns but I didn’t have time to watch it. Perhaps she explains why she did them in a different way. Anyway since I wanted them to look like the picture I redid them.

The front pocket following instructions.

I had to put this project away for a bit because it was giving me scrubs feelings but I eventually went back to it. This is a petite pattern which I loved. Simplicity patterns tend to have a lot of ease so I always need to do some adjustments for my short torso. I cut a size 8 based on my bust measurement and adding a few inches so it will look like it’s supposed to. I thought the sleeve were going to be too tight but they turned out to be just right, if you don’t have noodle arms like me add some room. I omitted the side seams pockets, this might sound weird to some people but I didn’t see the need for them in a top.

Overall this is an easy pattern, unless you’re afraid of buttonholes like I was some time ago. I really dislike making them because my sewing machine then was not the greatest. I upgraded my machine over a year ago and now my buttonholes are flawless. I recommend practice on fabric scraps until you get the hang of it.

Happy Sewing ..❤️

Cape, Sewing, Winter sewing

Simplicity 8473

February 28, 2019August 8, 2022 eclecticseams

Hello everybody!! I’m back to sewing! I’ve been trying to sew this pattern, Simplicity 8473, since October last year but as always I got distracted with other things. I actually cut the lining first because I couldn’t decide on the fashion fabric. I swear picking the right one is so hard for me, it’s not like is a life or death situation. I had to remind myself that is just fabric so instead of going to the store and lose one more day I decided to shop my stash.

This pattern has many hacking options. I picked the hi-low view and added the openings and a lining. I chose this white home decor fabric I bought at Joann’s not long ago. I was going to use it for a costume but it wasn’t the right weight. For the lining I use luxe fleece also from Joann’s. I sew the front pieces to the lining first, right side to right side then I turned the lining to the inside just like a welt pocket. Then I sew the rest pretty much following the instructions. Unfortunately I only took bad pictures with my phone for that process.

Overall this a very simple project and can be done in a couple of hours. Definitely beginner friendly. I highly recommend it!

Christmas Sewing, Handmade, Sewing, Thrifty Finds, Wrap skirt

Simplicity 8746 – Wrap Skirt.

December 11, 2018 eclecticseams

Every year, since I learned how to sew, I have made something to wear to my husband work Holiday Party. This year I chose Simplicity 8746 a simple wrap skirt. I picked a plaid fabric from Joann’s and use faux leather from my stash for the side ties. This is a really simple project with only 6 pieces in total.

I shorten the length about two inches because it was too long for me, I’m 5′ 4″ just to give you an idea. I was afraid it was going to be too cold to wear it but thankfully the weather was great! I paired my cute little skirt with a simple turtleneck and knee high boots. I have been looking for boots like these for a while and I was lucky to found them on sale for a just 40 dollars. I also wore a wool black coat I bought at the Goodwill many years ago.

Simplicity 8746.

Pattern Description: wrap skirts available in multiple lengths and feature D-ring closings to allow the skirt to drape perfectly from your waist. Great for plaids!

Pattern Sizing: 6 – 14 and 14 – 22.

Difficulty: Easy.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Yes.

Were the instructions easy to follow? Yes.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I liked the pleats in the back and the possibility to use different types of closures for the side.

Fabric Used: brushed cotton from Joann’s.

Would you recommend it to others? Yes!

Costumes, Geeky sewing., Handmade, Sewing

Harry Potter Robe – Simplicity 8723 Review.

November 6, 2018 eclecticseams

I recently made a Harry Potter robe using Simplicity 8723. I wore this to a couple of halloween events but I’m sure I’ll be wearing this anytime of the year. This pattern is great includes robes, sweater and tie in child and teen sizes XS-L and adult sizes XS-XL. The pattern runs large, I made a small and it was a little to big. I’m 5’4″ and 120 pounds just to give you an idea. I didn’t size down because my children, now taller than me, might want to wear it sometimes.

I used black gabardine and stretch sateen in biking red for the facings and lining both from Joann’s. I bought the iron on appliqué patch at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter store in Orlando a few years ago. I wanted to buy the robe but for a $120 I was like I can made that for half as much. I expend around $50 without thread that I already had and the closure that I removed from a cape I made a while ago.

The only modification I made was adding lining to the sleeves. I wanted to line the whole thing but decided not to since I’m planing to wear it next time I visit Universal Studios. Overall this is a very easy pattern and great for beginners. I definitely recommend it just don’t forget to size down.

Handmade, Pants, Sewing

Let the Fall Sewing Begin! Simplicity 8093

September 21, 2018August 8, 2022 eclecticseams

The September Equinox is expected to arrive tomorrow and I’m so ready! I have one more summer project review, but I couldn’t wait to share these cute wide leg cropped pants I made using Simplicity 8093. Fall is my favorite season and I love to sew pants. I have so many patterns on my “To sew list” and since the season is so short here in the midwest I decided to start early.

This pattern is very easy to sew. I only did two things differently: For the front pleats you’re supposed to fold along solid lines then bring the folds to broken lines and baste across the raw edge. I sewed the folds together just like you would a dart, as I liked how the pleats look this way. Also, for the belt loops the instructions have you attaching them to the waistband. Instead I sewed them directly to the pants and after I attached the waistband I sewed the other side of the loops. This way was easier for me. I used a crepe suiting fabric from my stash, as I knew I wanted to make pants with it and this was perfect because it has a beautiful drape.

I think this pattern might be out of print therefore I’m not going to make a full review. If you are anything like me and have this pattern on your sewing queue you should do it already! You won’t be disappointed. This is a Mimi G pattern so don’t forget there is a video tutorial on You Tube. I didn’t have to watch the video because the instructions were very easy to follow. I think I’m going to make another pair with a brighter color. We’ll see how long my sewing mojo lasts. What’s on your sewing table? Are the Seasons changing in your neck of the woods?

Handmade, PDF Patterns, Sewing

The Luisa Shorts – Rosy Peña Patterns.

July 27, 2018March 21, 2022 eclecticseams

This summer I was a little upset when I found out none of my shorts fit. All those donuts I ate at midnight were coming back to haunt me! I’ve probably been wearing the same shorts every summer since I was 20 years old, so it’s about time I make new ones. I started looking for shorts patterns right away, and I soon realized I’ve never made shorts before. I saw a picture of Rosy Peña wearing the Luisa shorts on Instagram and I was immediately sold.

This is a very simple pattern with only four pattern pieces which is perfect for beginners. I’m not a big fan of PDF patterns, but I really wanted to give them a real try and these shorts were perfect for that. These shorts have a paper bag waist , inseam pockets and faux drawstring. Honestly it was the elastic waist that convinced me, just incase I gain a couple more pounds this summer.😄. I also got a free pattern, The Marie Wrap Skirt, when I signed up for Rosy’s newsletter.

The pattern comes with a copy shop format, in case you dislike printing and taping. I feel that it defeats the purpose of a PDF pattern but it’s great to have that option. I used a chambray, which might get tricky sewing with this type of fabric so I recommend ironing using of a lot spray starch before cutting. I didn’t follow the instructions, because I sew them the same way I sew pants just because it’s easier for me. I did read the instructions, for the sake of this review, and they were easy to follow. Rosy also has a sew long video here, just in case you need a visual.

Luisa Trousers/Shorts – Rosy Peña Patterns.

Pattern Description: A “paperbag” waist style trouser or shorts featuring a mini ruffled detail, inseam pockets and a faux drawstring. Luisa is a fun piece to add to your wardrobe and is both comfortable and stylish to wear.

Pattern Sizing: XXS – XXL. I cut a size Small.

Difficulty: Easy.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Yes.

Were the instructions easy to follow? Yes.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I liked the deep pockets and the paper bag waist.

Fabric Used: Chambray from Joann Fabrics.

Would you recommend it to others? Yes, especially for those trying PDF patterns for the first time.

Handmade, Sewing

Vintage Inspired Wrap Dress. See & Sew B6543

July 19, 2018March 21, 2022 eclecticseams

I attended a Wedding last week, and it took me a long time to decide what to make. I was going to make a strapless dress with a double circle skirt, but when I was about to cut the fabric I realized I didn’t have the right supplies. The horse braid hair I wanted to use wasn’t the one for a circle hem; the one with a loose thread on one side. Thank goodness I had a plan B, a vintage inspired wrap dress. I used See & Sew B6543. I love how it turned out!!

I went to Joann’s looking for Vogue 9251, but I couldn’t find my size. I came across this one by accident, I paid less for this pattern even though Vogue was on sale. This is a very simple pattern that is definitely beginner friendly. It doesn’t require zippers, buttons or even a lining. I wasn’t very happy about the no lining part, since I’m not a fan of bias tape. I took my time and hand basted it first, then I gave it a good press and took it to the sewing machine. The most difficult part was probably the curved hem, but with some hand basting and a lot of pressing it’s really no big deal.

I also used bias tape to cover the waistline seam. I cut a size 10 and shortened the skirt by 2 inches. I also removed 3 inches from the bottom front curve, just so I could give my shoes a better view. I also shortened the ties by half because I wanted to make a sash. I wanted to use a vintage brooch that I already own but it was too small. So I ordered this one last minute on Amazon. It wasn’t the best quality but it was still pretty, and I only had to pay $8.99.

My “I forgot to clean those spider webs” pose.

See & Sew B6543

Pattern Description: Fitted dress has side ties, sleeve and length variations and uneven hemline: wrong side of fabric will show.

Pattern Sizing: 8-24.

Difficulty: Easy.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Yes, I like to think that it looks better.

Were the instructions easy to follow? Yes.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I loved the pockets!

Fabric Used: Stretch satin from Joann fabrics.

Would you recommend it to others? Yes!

This one was taken with my cell phone. Not the best quality but I like it.

Handmade, Sewing

McCall’s 7752.

June 13, 2018March 21, 2022 eclecticseams

I rarely sew new patterns, since I’m always trying to keep up with my never ending sewing list. I usually get to sew them a year after they’re released. This time I made an exception for McCall’s 7752 this top is adorable!!! I chose the view with the bra, midriff and double peplum. I use a lightweight denim from my stash, probably from The Loft in L.A.

The bodice is fully lined and requires boning on the sides. Perhaps if you are small chested like me you can skip it. I used it just because I like how it gives you some extra support . If you never sew boning before you can go here for some tips, don’t be afraid is super simple. I cut a size 8, I had to take it in just a bit on the sides. Next time I will put together the front parts then the back, that way it will be easier to make adjustments.

I’m planing to use this pattern again soon for a July wedding. I will modify it by adding length to the peplums to make it a dress. Perhaps I’ll add a third peplum, I will definitely use lighter fabric. I just need to make up my mind about the color I want. For now I will rock my denim on denim look!

McCall’s 7752.

Pattern Description: Close fitting, partially lined tops have boning, invisible zipper, and bodice variations with sleeves or straps. Create your own design with mix and match pattern pieces.

Design options include: Bra, knot bodice overlay, cape, straps, sleeves, midriff and peplum, midriff with upper and lower peplums, and flounce.

Pattern Sizing: 6 – 14 and 14 – 22.

Difficulty: Intermediate.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Yes.

Were the instructions easy to follow? Yes.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I liked everything.

Fabric Used: lightweight denim.

Would you recommend it to others? Yes!