Every September the Pattern Review website/sewing land site holds a Sewing Bee contest. Skill be damned, I entered again for the third year. The contest is 4 rounds long. For each round there is a specific challenge, a strict deadline, and a panel of judges who are very picky about the rules. About half of… Continue reading A Sewing Bee ~ Simplicity 1255
Author: Janine Sews
I am a Canadian who recently returned home to Calgary after 24 years in the USA, mostly in Florida and Georgia. I returned to sewing in 2015, and my focus is on sewing clothes for my over-50 body in styles and fabrics that make me look my best.
I also vlog as Janine Sews on YouTube.
McCall’s 6885 ~ Dress into Tunic!
In May, 2017 I made a shirtdress with this pattern. And in August I pulled out the same pattern and made a tunic. This is a brief follow-up blog on the tunic. If you'd like to read all about the shirtdress and the pattern adjustments, please click here for the original blog post. London… Continue reading McCall’s 6885 ~ Dress into Tunic!
Style Arc – Harlow Top
In search of something with trendy sleeves ... Pattern Decided it was time to test my sewing mojo so I ventured out into indy land and ordered 2 Style Arc patterns; the Marilyn dress (yet to be made), and the Harlow top. Style Arc patterns are beautifully drafted but the instructions are minimal. Since this… Continue reading Style Arc – Harlow Top
Great British Sewing Bee: From Stitch to Style – Breton Top Pattern
Recently the Duchess of Cambridge toured Germany and of course her wardrobe was fabulous. It helps that she's slender and tall and her clothes hang nicely. But not everything she wears is fancy; she has a penchant for Breton tops. Like the one that inspired me. I posted the picture on Pattern Review and commented… Continue reading Great British Sewing Bee: From Stitch to Style – Breton Top Pattern
Simplicity 1920 ~ Third Time Around
Sometimes the simplest of patterns brings the most satisfaction. Pattern Simplicity 1920 is one of those coordinates patterns - "Misses' Skirt, Top, Jacket, Scarf and Belt". I bought it early last year and sewed two tops, two belts and a skirt at the time. I like the shape of the tops - the deep scoop… Continue reading Simplicity 1920 ~ Third Time Around
Sleepwear (Butterick 5932)
Maybe I don't need to spend $70 for something to sleep in. Pattern Butterick 5932 describes itself as "Misses' Camisole, Dress, Top, Shorts and Pants: Camisole (fitted through bust) has shoulder straps, and self lined upper sections with elasticized back. Loose-fitting, Semi-fitted shorts ... have elastic waist." I sewed the camisole and shorts. I bought… Continue reading Sleepwear (Butterick 5932)
Janine Sews 