Swim Tour with Raspberry Creek Fabrics

Bathing suit shopping is a nightmare. The suits never seem to fit right, or the color/patterns are wrong; too little coverage here, too baggy there. But sewing swim is a breath of fresh air! Skip the dressing rooms (or the online returns hassle) and sew your perfect fit.

I have been making swimwear for myself and my daughter for several years. I love the coordinating collections available at Raspberry Creek. Their swim fabric has excellent recovery and density and has stood up to our frequent trips to the pool and beach. Last year’s suits still look almost brand new! When the new color/print lines released this year, my daughter and I quickly made our selections.

(You can click the fabrics to shop directly. )

I am going to skip all the gory details, if you are new to sewing swimwear or just want a refresher course on the basics, Whitney wrote an excellent blog post here. Seriously, it’s great!

Let’s take a look at all the great patterns that I used to make this family collection.

The boys all got boardshorts made from the Linen Loungers Pattern. (and 1 yard of boardshort fabric. That was a series game of fabric tetris). My oldest and youngest also got Reagan Rashguards. For my middle boy, I used the Dylan Tee as I liked the stripes that run down the sides of the body.

I had to get a little creative with the 1 yard of board short fabric that I ordered, so I added a white stripe from the salvage on my oldest son’s pair. I also used my Silhouette with heat transfer vinyl for the graphics.

My daughter’s favorite bathing suit is the Minute Maillot. I quickly sewed up two reversible versions of that one and one Be Bold Bodysuit. I also made her the cutest coverup with the Oversized Sweater Pattern.

My preference is to have two piece bathing suits so that I can mix and match. I exclusively used the Hello Sailor Swim Bottoms for these sets. My sage leaves top is an Eloise Dress modified as a swim top. The striped top is the Sunflower Pattern and the mauve floral top is a Roxy top with modifications for the ruffled sleeve. To see more details about these modifications you should check out the highlights reel on my Instagram.

Want to know more about these suits or see videos? Check out my instagram: Clothed.in.Vermillion

I am much more active with sewing content both on my grid and in my stories.

Disclosure: You’ll find some affiliate links within my post, I receive a small amount of compensation if you end up purchasing something I’ve recommended. I share these links because of their quality and not because of the commission I receive from your purchases. Purchasing from my links does not alter the price for you, but it could help me in small but tangible ways. Thank you!

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Made By Kates, The Imperfect Sewist, Intensely Distracted, Lovely for Life

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Tis the season to wear a blanket… Patterns for Pirates Carefree Cardigan

I’ve been on the hunt for a decent waterfall cardigan for a while. I tried a free pattern and it’s wasn’t love. It’s been a while but I think I didn’t like the front seams on the bodice.

The Carefree Cardigan check all the boxes for me. It’s semi fitted through the shoulders and sleeves. And I love the way it drapes.

It has nice square corners and I like the banded finish. I was being lazy and didn’t do the clean finish as described in the pattern, but instead just used my serger. I think with the waffle knit the serged finish blends in well.

I’m going to need a few of these to get me through 2020.

THE NITTY-GRITTY:

Pattern Description: Carefree Cardigan from Patterns for Pirates Sleeve options: short, 3/4, long, and hemmed or banded. Top band only or fully banded option. You can also choose the belted version that slides under drapes and still give you definition at the waistline. The semi fitted flowy design allows for almost every knit from lightweight to fleece!

Pattern sizing: 30″-54″ full bust (XXS, XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL, Plus 1X, Plus 2X< and Plus 3X)

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern when you were finished sewing? Yes.

Were the instructions complete and easy to follow? Yes.

Fabric used: waffle knit

Did you use the recommended fabrics in the pattern: yes.

Did you alter the pattern in any way? Yes, I skipped the clean finished and serged all the seams.  

Was there anything you disliked or would change? No. I skipped the clean finish, next time I will probably do that.

Would you sew it again? Yes. I plan to sew it again.

Colorblock Sweater with Oaklynn from Made for Mermaids.

I already shared about the Made for Mermaids Oaklynn sweater I made for my daughter...but I’m going to be using this pattern a ton, so here I am sharing it again.

I had dreams of this sweater I found on Pinterest and found some scraps of waffle knit in my stash that I could use to make it happen.

I used the crew neck color block with the waistband and cuffs to achieve the same Colorblocking effect as my inspiration.

I followed the pattern without modifications. My only tip is to practice adjusting your machine settings to avoid the waviness in the seams if you are using waffle knit. I didn’t test ahead and I cannot steam out those waves…but I did perfect it on the next sweater I made.

Pattern Description: Made for Mermaids Women’s Oaklynn
Pattern sizing: 1/2 size Children’s to 5x (19″ to 60″ chest size) in two size packets.
Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern when you were finished sewing?Yes no
Were the instructions complete and easy to follow? Yes
Fabric used: waffle, french terry and distressed french terry
Did you use the recommended fabrics in the pattern: NA
Did you alter the pattern in any way? no
Was there anything you disliked or would change? No
Would you sew it again? Yes (I already have)
Would you recommend it to others? Yes
Do you consider the pattern beginner/intermediate/advanced? Beginner
Seam allowance used in the pattern? 1/2″

DIY Colorblock Sweater with Made for Mermaids Oaklynn Pattern

I had scraps of 3 perfect match (and purchased seperately fabrics) and knew they just needed to become something.

Finally, I found the Made for Mermaids Oaklynn and it was perfect.

Oaklynn has so many options: it is a dolman pullover with several options. Choose from a crew neck or v neck. The crew neckline has a wide neckband and an optional hemmed hood. The v neck also includes a banded hood option. Choose from a solid or colorblocked option. Includes a high hip, full hip, banded top and curved hemline. Plus 3/4 roll up cuff sleeve, cuffed long sleeve or hemmed long sleeve. The 3/4 roll up sleeve and the curved hemline are for the solid option only. Both long sleeve options are extra long. (Description is direct from their website)

Includes 3 paper printing sizes- US paper, A4 paper and A0 copy shop size.

As I was using up scraps I decided to go with the first view (color block, crew neck with long sleeves)

Also I’ve had this look pinned on pinterest for over a year and really wanted to make it happen.

It was a surprisingly fast sew. I graded for my daughter according to the chart (she is a 5 width and a 6 height)

Sometimes she’s a tough customer. But she absolutely loves this sweater.

I left her to do the camera work and I love it!

Coming soon…the adult version of Made for Mermaids Oaklynn

THE NITTY-GRITTY:

Pattern Description: Made for Mermaids Oaklynn
Pattern sizing: 1/2 size Children’s to 5x (19″ to 60″ chest size) in two size packets.
Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern when you were finished sewing?Yes
Were the instructions complete and easy to follow? Yes
Fabric used: waffle, french terry and distressed french terry
Did you use the recommended fabrics in the pattern: NA
Did you alter the pattern in any way? no
Was there anything you disliked or would change? No
Would you sew it again? Yes (I already have)
Would you recommend it to others? Yes
Do you consider the pattern beginner/intermediate/advanced? Beginner
Seam allowance used in the pattern? 1/2″

By Hand London Shirred Dress in Rayon Crepe

The seasons are changing. But not in my area of the US. The summer heat will hold on strong through Thanksgiving. I always feel like I miss the autumn. By the time it’s cool it’s Christmas!

This year I’m using all my fall toned fabrics to make sundresses. This autumn toned rayon crepe needed to be something flowy and romantic.

I saw the Instagram tuvtorial in the stories feed of By Hand London for a shirred dress. (Now shirring gives me flash backs to the “styles” I wore in middle school… And they aren’t good flash backs. Also shirring just seems like a lazy way to fit. ). But the shirred dresses everyone was making and tagging #bhlshirreddress changed my mind.

I didn’t have any other plans for this fabric so I ordered some elastic thread from Wawak and went for it.

I followed the By Hand London tutorial with only a couple exceptions. First my fabric was not wide enough for a single bodice piece (1.5 times my bust width). So I cut a front and back piece, together equaling 2 times my bust width. I did this because I knew I wouldn’t have enough fabric for a lower tier and I still wanted enough ease for beautiful movement. I also extended the shirring an additional inch to allow for bust room.

Halfway there

Trying on before the sleeves

Sleeveless, I liked that it was so open and the fabric didn’t over take me. But I strongly dislike the overall look of a Shirred tube top.

I added the sleeves as per tutorial

They look nice pulled up or left to fall down.

Thanks for following along and go check out By Hand London for the full tutorial. ❤️

THE NITTY-GRITTY:

Pattern Description: By Hand London Shirred Dress/Top Tutorial
Pattern sizing: NA
Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern when you were finished sewing?Yes
Were the instructions complete and easy to follow? Yes
Fabric used: Rayon Crepe
Did you use the recommended fabrics in the pattern: NA
Did you alter the pattern in any way? yes, I cut a front and back bodice and my width was 2times by bust measurement (tutorial suggested 1.5 times bust measurement)
Was there anything you disliked or would change? No
Would you sew it again? Yes
Would you recommend it to others? Yes
Do you consider the pattern beginner/intermediate/advanced? Beginner
Seam allowance used in the pattern? NA

DIY Men’s Joggers with Patterns for Pirates Papa Bear Jogger Pattern

My husband has been asking for a new pair of joggers for a LONG time. Too long. Finally his birthday rolled around I managed to make another pair.

Our favorite pattern is the Patterns for Pirates Papa Bear Joggers.

I have made them before and they fit great. I select his size and grade based on the size chart and add a little length for his height.

I wanted something a little nicer than sweat pants so I went with a Ponte Knit and used Ribbing for the cuffs and band. (Sorry, not sorry, we don’t wear shoes at home.)

Lastly to add a little more finish I decided to add a but of vinyl using my Silhouette and an .svg file I purchased from a shop on Etsy, Milsea Design

THE NITTY-GRITTY:

Pattern Description: Pattern for Pirates Papa Bear Joggers
Pattern sizing: Sizes included: XXS, XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL, Plus 1X, Plus 2X and Plus 3X (waist size 28-48)
Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern when you were finished sewing? Yes
Were the instructions complete and easy to follow? Yes.
Fabric used: Ponte and Ribbing
Did you use the recommended fabrics in the pattern: Yes/ I used the same weight fabric recommend, although it specifically recommends french terry.
Did you alter the pattern in any way? No, I graded and chose his size according to the the size chart
Would you sew it again? Yes, I have sewn it several times and will continue to use it.
Would you recommend it to others? Yes
Do you consider the pattern beginner/intermediate/advanced? Beginner to intermediate depending on options
Seam allowance used in the pattern? 1/2

Oversized Sweater from Patterns for Pirates

I recently made my first Oversized Sweater from Patterns for Pirates

I opted for the crew neck version with the split hem. But while I was deciding I realized this pattern has a lot of options! I want to try that foldover turtleneck and the curved hemline sometime soon.

I checked my stash and found a nice printed 4-way stretch french terry.

Considering my drapey and stretchy fabric and the finished measurement chart, I decided to make one size down from my upper bust measurement.

• 

The Oversized Sweater comes together so quickly and easily. I am happy with my size choice and the large slouchy sleeves. It certainly is cozy.

I really love the split hem detail. But after wearing it a few times I really wished that I had removed some length from the height (as I am only 5’2″) so I removed the split hem and added a tight band. I plan to make another with the split hem and I would really like to try out the curved hem as well.

THE NITTY-GRITTY:

Pattern Description: Pattern for Pirates Oversized Sweater
Pattern sizing: XXS-5X
Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern when you were finished sewing? Yes
Were the instructions complete and easy to follow? Yes.
Fabric used: Stretch French Terry
Did you use the recommended fabrics in the pattern: Yes
Did you alter the pattern in any way? I chose one size down from my upper bust measurement
Was there anything you disliked or would change? No.
Would you sew it again? Yes
Would you recommend it to others? Yes
Do you consider the pattern beginner/intermediate/advanced? Beginner to intermediate depending on options
Seam allowance used in the pattern? 1/2

McCall’s M8028 Rayon Spandex Jumpsuit

I picked up McCalls Pattern Company m8028 at the last Hobby Lobby sale and suddenly had the urge to make it.

Usually when I decide to buy a pattern I browse Pinterest for inspiration, so I already had some ideas waiting for me.

I decided on view B with short sleeves to conserve fabric on my first go (just in case it didn’t go well) and I also decided that I was going to straighten out the lower leg to add some width (with the plan that I could slim the leg again if I decided to in the end)

The pattern envelope stated this is “very loose fitting” After consulting the cut chart and the finished measurements on the pattern pieces, I decided on size large, which is my measured size.

I sewed the garment without deviating from the instructions (except in the case of finishing raw edges with my serger)

The end result is just as I hoped.

On the McCalls Instagram page, Jackie stated this can be worn on or off the shoulder, I found the elastic measurement to fit that description perfectly.

Pocket View 👌

It was a #sewpinterest win!

THE NITTY-GRITTY:

Pattern Description: McCalls Pattern Company m8028
Pattern sizing: S-XL
Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern when you were finished sewing? Yes
Were the instructions complete and easy to follow? Yes
Fabric used: Rayon Spandex
Did you use the recommended fabrics in the pattern: yes Did you alter the pattern in any way? Yes. I extended the side seam from the hip straight down to the hem line to add width through the lower leg
Was there anything you disliked or would change? Nope, it was great.
Would you sew it again? Yes. I would like to make to cuffed leg version as well
Would you recommend it to others? Yes
Do you consider the pattern beginner/intermediate/advanced? Beginner to Intermediate
Pants: Do the front and back have separate rises? Yes
Seam allowance used in the pattern? 5/8″

SOS Pants from Patterns for Pirates

Patterns for Pirates revamped and re-released the SOS Pants a little over year ago and after nearly a year in maternity clothes (plus post partum) I felt really ready for real pants. Or at least pull-on pants with a little stretchy forgiveness.

I made 3 pairs in stretch twill and one pair in stretch french terry.

I’m really happy with the fit straight out of the package, my only alteration here is for height, I can see that I probably need to remove more, but I am trying to be less nit-picky with my makes.

The white pair was my first muslin and the orange was maybe my second? This was during testing, so the fit is improving from the changes to the pattern itself and also to me taking height out more accurately.

I decided after this pair to try using stretch mesh to line the pockets to prevent lines showing from the pockets.

The stretch mesh pocket lining was a success, as you can see the pocket lines are much less visible on this stretch French Terry pair.

Speaking of French Terry, I usually shop in Fashion District in LA. If you are a local or are heading to the area, you definitely want to check the tips for navigating the district. If you are ordering fabric you are going to need: as little as 1 1/2 yards to as much 2 5/8 (depending on options you choose and your size)

P4P is always great at beautiful, quick construction patterns and I love that! It really helps for boosting your handmade wardrobe quickly.

The SOS Pants are an intermediate sewing pattern in knit with skinny and straight leg option! Skinny leg option is fitted throughout leg to ankle. Straight leg option is fitted through hip/booty, then loose/straight through leg for a flattering and dressier option. Both options include knit/enclosed elastic waistband, back yokes, front and back pocket options. Suggested fabrics are ponte roma and medium/heavy weight jegging denim knit.

For the detail oriented seamstresses out there: I determined my size using the pattern chart, I am an XL waist graded to L in the hips and M in the legs (My current measurements are 36 Overbust, 41 Bust, 33 High Waist, 41 hips). I did my standard height adjustments to account for my 5′-2″ frame as the pattern is drafted for 5′–5″.

I’d love if you would stay tuned here, or follow me on IG @clothed.in.vermillion so that we can share our sewing projects, tips and tricks with each other.

And please join the community and be inspired by all the Patterns for Pirates creations over in the Patterns for Pirates Facebook Group.

THE NITTY-GRITTY:

Pattern Description: Pattern for Pirates SOS Pants
Pattern sizing: XXS-3X
Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern when you were finished sewing? Yes
Were the instructions complete and easy to follow? Yes.
Fabric used: Stretch Twill and French Terry
Did you use the recommended fabrics in the pattern: Yes
Did you alter the pattern in any way? I am 5′-2 and took my standard height adjustment
Was there anything you disliked or would change? No.
Would you sew it again? Yes
Would you recommend it to others? Yes
Do you consider the pattern beginner/intermediate/advanced? Beginner Pants Pattern, especially as it does not require any zip or fly construction.
Seam allowance used in the pattern? 1/2

RuLo from George and Ginger Patterns

George and Ginger Patterns just released the RuLo and this on-trend boho pattern is a winner.

I applied for the opportunity to test this pattern for Kristi and I could not believe I was selected. Her patterns are famous for being well-drafted and her kindness to her huge following speaks volumes. During testing we were all surprised how may options Kristi offered, it seriously could have been 2 equally amazing patterns.

Let me allow the pattern description to give you all the details:  “The RuLo is packed with amazing options!  Choose from oversized dolman and regular crop, top, tunic and dress styles…and single tier bell, double tier bell, triple tier bell, full bell and basic sleeves!  With added features like ties and shoulder ruffles, you can mix and match your favorites for endless possibilities! ”

I broke away from my usual shopping for this trip and hit up the National City Swap Meet for all the fabrics I used on RuLo.  Check it out if you are in San Diego! It’s awesome.

For this top with 2-tiered bell sleeve, I used stretch mesh and I love it SO much. I know I am going to live in it during the hot summer months coming all too quickly.

Suggested fabric for this top/dress:  2-way sweater knit with drape and at least 50% stretch.  Any knit with 50% stretch will work, but may not give the same results.  Any fabric, including woven, can be used for the ties. .

..as you can see my extra stretchy mesh does pull off my shoulder a bit, next time I use the mesh I will make my neckline a tad smaller. But I love an open neckline, so I don’t mind this one.

For the detail oriented seamstresses out there: I graded between sized 14 and 16 (My
current measurements are 36 Overbust, 41 Bust, 33 High Waist, 41 hips) and did my standard height adjustments to account for my 5′-2″ frame as the pattern is drafted for 5′–6″. 

Hurry and grab the RuLo on sale through 1/26/2018 ONLY (although with all the options it is still a bargain at full price)

I’d love if you would stay tuned here, or follow me on IG @clothed.in.vermillion to check-out all the Wiggles I have sewn for my closet!

And please join the community and be inspired by all the RuLo creations over in the George and Ginger Pattern Facebook Group.

THE NITTY-GRITTY for the RuLo:

Pattern Description: George and Ginger Patterns, RuLo
Pattern sizing: tween sizes 12 and 14, women’s sizes 0-26
Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern when you were finished sewing? Yes
Were the instructions complete and easy to follow? Yes. Detailed information and professional line drawings of construction are provided.
Fabric used: Stretch Mesh
Did you use the recommended fabrics in the pattern: Kristi drafted this for a 2-Way Sweater Knit a I used a  4 way Stretch Mesh, so technically I did not use the recommended fabric.
Did you alter the pattern in any way?  Shortened for my 5′-2″ frame
Was there anything you disliked or would change? No it is LOVE
Would you sew it again? Yes I’ve already made 3 and need to grab some more sweater knit to make some more.
Would you recommend it to others? Yes
Do you consider the pattern beginner/intermediate/advanced? Beginning Intermediate
Seam allowance used in the pattern? 1/4″ throughout

Additional Pattern Features:

–Beautifully designed layered pieces for tween sizes 12 and 14, women’s sizes 0-26
–No-trim page feature
–Pieces layout on US letter, A4 and A0 size pages
–Cutting chart AND print option for rectangular pieces
–Instructions on measuring and choosing your size
–Shorten/Lengthen adjustment instructions
–Grading between sizes instructions
–Full chart of finished measurements
–Glossary of sewing terms
–Fabric tips and tricks
–Yardage requirements and notions list
–Printing, taping and cutting instructions and layout
–Graphically designed and detailed construction photos
–Easy to understand step-by-step instructions

See you next time!

 

 

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