2008 Sewing Resolutions

Earlier in the month I decided to give myself a fashion makeover. So my sewing goals are in line with that plan.I suppose by putting this out in blogland,I will be compelled to successfully complete my goals. So here goes.

1. Clean out closet and get rid of everything that does not fit.
2. Make a list of wardrobe basics needed. Sew them.
3. Clean out pattern and fabric stash.
4. SWAP-Sew With A Plan
5. Learn to fit a jacket properly
6. Sew weekly
7. Learn more tailored finishing techniques
8. Experiment with Burda World of Fashion Patterns
9. Try a technique from every monthly issue of Threads magazine.

Merry Christmas

Merry Christmas !

UFO #1-Done

I finish one of my UFOs. I started this pencil skirt at the beginning of this month and stopped with just the hem to finish. Some how I ended up with 3 skirts in the closet that just needed to be hemmed. I guess I just like to have a little hand sewing to do while watching TV. Now I've got 2 more skirts hems left. I don't want to start the new year with any UFOs.

Here's my version in chocolate brown with a pink RTW jacket.

Inspiration

Often I look for fashion inspiration in catalogs a nd on the internet and can find tons of fashionable looks on thin models. This can be a bit disheartening because I'd like to see fashionable looks on people who look like me and I am far from thin. I'm not whinning about it though.There is no self hate here. One of the many reasons I like sewing blogs so much, is all of women have different figures and sew to dress themselves fabulously.They post a cool designer garment (often runway pics) and then a few days later...BAM... their own awesome version of the look.

I like seeing fashion pics of Jill Scott, Jennifer Hudson, Monique and Queen Latifah. These beautiful women are always styling. Queen Latifah has a fashion line and these pics are a few looks I could see myself wearing.

I'm planning to do my own versions of each outfit including the bag as part of my total wardrobe makeover. I can see a lot of room for embellishments and additional detail which would allow me to use a couple of patterns for several different looks. I think I might have some similar patterns in my stash that could work. Good thing Hancock Fabrics is having a pattern sale.

Joy,Joy,Joy !!!

I had the most splendid time sewing with my new friend,Linda.

We got together at her home for some good sewing fellowship,this past Saturday.The first thing she did was present me with this beautiful Kwik Sew pattern.It was sweet surprise and I love it. She had her sewing room all set up for total sewing comfort and a fantastic sewing library. I worked on a skirt and she worked on a cute top and a pants fitting muslin. I got the chance to see all the cute fashions she had sewn and posted on her blog. Linda is a terrific seamstress ! I had so much fun !

Sunday evening, I cut out this trench coat from a zebra print,I've had in my stash for a year. I hope to release my inner diva for the New Year. I've been watching "Tim Gunn's House Of Style"and "What Not To Wear"and have to decided to give myself a fashion makeover. I'm going for the bold,creative look. Live out loud and in living color.

My Latest Completed Projects

As promised,here are the pictures of my latest projects. This is one of the patterns and fabric I picked up during my shopping trip with my sewing buddy,Faye. This is Mccalls 5520. The fabric has a little metallic fiber running throughout the print.This was really easy to put together.One hour from cut to finish.Next time I'll make it with a smaller neckline.I don't want my bra strap showing.

I did some knitting and felting. This hat is the result. I love the felting process.

I did some crochet.

My daughter Ashley,loves all things pink. She knows how to crochet but, she usually ask me to make this and that. She doesn't like to follow patterns. She's a free style girl.