Indygo Junction Top - Pattern IJ-867

Here's Indygo Junction Pattern #IJ-867.  I used a stretch cotton print which I purchased on sale from Gorgeous Fabrics...very mod, very nice to work with!  I love the feel of good quality fabric (it's addictive).  The pattern was an easy one to sew; I put this top together in one afternoon.  I did have to round off the front and back hem at each side to create a nicer finish (got rid of those pointy sides which I didn't care for).  The collar did not call for interfacing, and I was concerned that it might flop...but it didn't.   The wide neck opening with its soft stand-up collar gave me some concern, but the overall effect is flattering.  I'll wear this crop top with a nice pair of fitted pants.  CHRIS' CRITIQUE:  Looking at the photo of this completed garment, next time when cutting out a print fabric such as this, I will pay attention when laying out my pattern pieces on the fabric, to make sure the design of the print is placed to its best advantage, in order to give symmetry and balance to the sewn garment as a whole.  Lesson learned!

Oh No! Apricot Crinkle!

 I've been sewing...trying out patterns and fabrics from my stash. So important to match the right fabric to the right pattern; otherwise, potential disaster. Think I'll go back to signature pieces to mix and match with ready-to-wear. Need to start posting pics of recent garments sewn; here's one. I think folks like me need wardrobe inspiration for the 60+ crowd...age appropriate but not stuffy. See the plain button-down blouse (BUTTERICK 5034) out of a crinkled polyester (dusty apricot color though it looks orange in the photo) and a pair of matching pull-on pants (PETITE PLUS Tapered Pull-on Pant 603). The pants are a fabulous fit but the blouse? Not so good...well-sewn, nice buttons, but somehow frumpy looking...on me anyway. I will definitely make more pants from this PETITE PLUS-603 pattern; however, I would have to shorten the sleeve length on this BUTTERICK 5034 blouse pattern.  I normally do not need to adjust patterns as I am generally true to size.  I have to believe the fit problem on the blouse is because of the crinkly polyester fabric?  Perhaps it stretched?  As for wearing the outfit, when at home it's no holds barred. I can wear what I want; just hope there are no callers when I'm running around the house in my I-don't-care creations. CHRIS' CRITIQUE: This fabric is scratchy to the skin and snags easily.  Not keen on dusty apricot color on the whole of me.  In summary, disappointed with the fit of the blouse pattern and the fabric as a whole.  Another lesson learned about fit and fabric as I journey toward that wishful wearable wardrobe. 

Off the Cuff

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Closet Update

Recently loaded pics of garments I have sewn. Been sewing quite a bit...working on that wishful artsy wardrobe that I talk about sewing for myself. Some patterns have sewn up, well...not so good; others a success. Will be posting pictures..."Calico Quilter's Closet" (aka: Chris' Wearables). Gardening season is coming up quickly so sewing may slow down.