Kwik Sew 3854 – Sailor-Style Shorts

This is such a cute shorts pattern – if only I could get them to fit!

I present to you, my valued readers, my latest wadder.

Notice the big gap at the back waistband and the gaping, droopy section in the front.  I adjusted and took these in (a total of 1 1/4″) as I sewed them together, but they still need to be taken in a good 2-3 inches.  If I do that, I fear it will distort the style lines of the garment.  Therefore, they are oficially classified as a wadder.

I also think the back darts should be extended slightly.  They appear to be a bit short.  Or, maybe the length of the darts is okay if the shorts fit properly.  The pattern instructions are very clear and easy to follow and I really like the style of the shorts, so I will ponder whether or not to attempt another pair.  If I do, I will definitely cut a smaller size.

I’m moving on to another project.  I’m in the mood for a maxi skirt or dress, so that will most likely be the next garment that I sew.  The best way for me to get past a wadder is to quickly move on to the next project in queue.

Here’s hoping you rarely have wadders and you are richly rewarded with success.

Vogue 8815 Peplum Top

IMHO, peplum tops are very flattering, so I had to take this Vogue pattern for a test run.  The last peplum top I made was from a Burda WOF pattern and I wear it quite often.  I made it before I started blogging, but it was my first review on Pattern Review if you are interested.  This Vogue top will get just as much wear as the Burda peplum.  I really like the match up of this stretch sateen fabric from my stash along with this pattern.  The fit is close-fitting  and you would not want this to have a lot of wearing ease as it would alter the style lines of the top.  Therefore, the small amount of stretch in this sateen fabric works beautifully.

Does the shape of the top look familiar?  Here’s from where I believe the inspiration may have come:

Yes, dear readers, it’s Jane Jetson!  See the resemblence?

The back closure uses a 22″ invisible zipper.

And the armhole and neckline openings are finished with bias tape.  I used my serger on all other exposed seams.

I did not make any adjustments to the pattern and I did not make a fit muslin.  I simply cut it to match my upper bust measurement and it was a perfect fit right out of the envelope.  If you’re wanting to stay on trend this season and make yourself a peplum top, this would be a great pattern to choose.

Simplicity 1806 – Silk

Happy May Day to all.  What a gorgeous way to begin May.  The weather is mild and beautiful and I have so many sewing projects in queue.  Today I have a repeat of Simplicity 1806 to share with you.  You might remember, I used the turquoise bridal fabric for this first one, but this go around I chose a coral 100% silk.  I also mixed it up a little with the pattern pieces by adding sleeves to this version.

I have to say, the silk flounce does lay down much nicer than the heavier bridal fabric, and I do love the feel of the silk against my skin, but I’m truly liking both versions.  Perhaps it is the color that’s drawing me in, I’m just not sure.  A bright spot to note is that I did get my serger back from the dealer and I used a rolled hem along the edge of that flounce.  So much nicer than a narrow folded hem.

I have a pair of black denim capris cut and waiting to be sewn.  Hopefully I’ll get a good start on those before we go camping for the weekend.  Have a most enjoyable first week of May.