tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20145826607452809342024-03-14T03:07:33.492-04:00The Jacobite RoseSpinnerettahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18335780710513434157noreply@blogger.comBlogger568125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2014582660745280934.post-19881007962513533472015-04-24T17:02:00.000-04:002015-04-24T17:02:10.681-04:00Spring For Cotton: The Blouse and the Sewing NotebookI finished my Simplicity 1538 blouse this week, just in time for the Spring for Cotton finale!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HrZTTh1l6gU/VTqkFv_YDOI/AAAAAAAAE5I/qZV7h0mNC_g/s1600/2015-04-02%2B13.30.07.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HrZTTh1l6gU/VTqkFv_YDOI/AAAAAAAAE5I/qZV7h0mNC_g/s1600/2015-04-02%2B13.30.07.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1948 Simplicity Blouse pattern and polka dot fabric.</td></tr>
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It all started with the yellow polka dot fabric, and the 1948 pattern that I have made twice before. Both of those are blogged on here. Well sort of. My <a href="http://jacobiterose.blogspot.com/2013/06/box-pleat-shorts-simplicity-2017-c1947.html" target="_blank">view 3 can be seen here</a>, and my view 1 with short sleeves, <a href="http://jacobiterose.blogspot.com/2011/06/new-clothes-or-old.html" target="_blank">view 3 collar and no pocket can be seen here</a>, at the end of the post.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XY_InfghJ3Y/VTqkKtl6zYI/AAAAAAAAE5o/7TpT-cx_nbY/s1600/2015-04-04%2B18.12.30.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XY_InfghJ3Y/VTqkKtl6zYI/AAAAAAAAE5o/7TpT-cx_nbY/s1600/2015-04-04%2B18.12.30.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fabric, bias tape and the novelty buttons.</td></tr>
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I carefully chose some novelty buttons, for which I have a definite fondness, and opted to bind all my seams with a matching single-fold bias tape. (This makes for pretty seams, but I am definitely going to try some of the rayon seam binding next time!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7mYieA7rPD8/VTqkKmAM2II/AAAAAAAAE5s/5urjZucx7QI/s1600/2015-04-04%2B18.13.19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7mYieA7rPD8/VTqkKmAM2II/AAAAAAAAE5s/5urjZucx7QI/s1600/2015-04-04%2B18.13.19.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grading book, Grading ruler and pattern.</td></tr>
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Using <a href="http://www.fashionpatterns.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=6&products_id=157" target="_blank">Connie Crawford's grading book and ruler</a>, I graded my pattern up one size (that's a full 2 inch grading). It was definitely worth the money!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eqnUbIlyHJw/VTqkG2fskDI/AAAAAAAAE5Q/SsNZ7sH9sJU/s1600/2015-04-12%2B19.44.44.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eqnUbIlyHJw/VTqkG2fskDI/AAAAAAAAE5Q/SsNZ7sH9sJU/s1600/2015-04-12%2B19.44.44.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fully graded pattern</td></tr>
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It was a little time consuming. I also messed up a total of three times before getting it right! The first time I hadn't done the lines correctly, the second time I was moving my pattern in the wrong direction, and the third time, I was using the wrong pattern piece. I learned though- yes I learned NOT to try doing this at night- after a long day!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eeK92NzITAs/VTqkMojYIGI/AAAAAAAAE6s/xoR--Sc15G8/s1600/2015-04-17%2B14.49.52.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eeK92NzITAs/VTqkMojYIGI/AAAAAAAAE6s/xoR--Sc15G8/s1600/2015-04-17%2B14.49.52.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After shoulder and side seams, with pinned on collar.</td></tr>
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Once I had the pattern pieces done, I was able to cut them out and start on the blouse pretty quickly. Some of that was thanks to the new rotary cutter and self-healing mat I purchased!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UZieadAgd5M/VTqkMwmS2MI/AAAAAAAAE6I/SlQeB-EJ9Sk/s1600/2015-04-20%2B17.52.56.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UZieadAgd5M/VTqkMwmS2MI/AAAAAAAAE6I/SlQeB-EJ9Sk/s1600/2015-04-20%2B17.52.56.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bound seams and hem.</td></tr>
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I bound all the seams with single-fold bias tape, and used it for the hem too. I machine stitched it in place since it will always be tucked in. It does make for slightly bulky junctions, which is why I said I would love to try the rayon seam binding next time!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ffP6DHYI1L4/VTqkNCGRCGI/AAAAAAAAE6M/leDj6NiIxzA/s1600/2015-04-21%2B15.49.52.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ffP6DHYI1L4/VTqkNCGRCGI/AAAAAAAAE6M/leDj6NiIxzA/s1600/2015-04-21%2B15.49.52.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Still have the fronts, sleeves and collar to finish.</td></tr>
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I took my time. I refused to sew after about 8pm (which is when I start to get tired and mess up!), and the blouse gradually came together.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Le8YcLmaEbc/VTqkNbkjNYI/AAAAAAAAE6Y/VVCKT90ky28/s1600/2015-04-21%2B16.42.28.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Le8YcLmaEbc/VTqkNbkjNYI/AAAAAAAAE6Y/VVCKT90ky28/s1600/2015-04-21%2B16.42.28.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Buttons added to front.</td></tr>
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I was ecstatic when I got to add my buttons- they looked just as I hoped they would!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-afIMWGqBrec/VTqkNlkE-yI/AAAAAAAAE6o/QN84jNSXj1Q/s1600/2015-04-21%2B18.03.54.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-afIMWGqBrec/VTqkNlkE-yI/AAAAAAAAE6o/QN84jNSXj1Q/s1600/2015-04-21%2B18.03.54.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Everything but the sleeve hems!</td></tr>
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The last thing I did was the hems on the sleeves. Those are not bound, just double folded and hand-hemmed.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-G6xdlqKD9Is/VTqkiNzBSOI/AAAAAAAAE7Y/QP-wgqouimQ/s1600/2015-04-24%2B09.55.42.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-G6xdlqKD9Is/VTqkiNzBSOI/AAAAAAAAE7Y/QP-wgqouimQ/s1600/2015-04-24%2B09.55.42.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finished blouse.</td></tr>
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And then I waited a few days to wear it! It's such a lightweight cotton, it is perfect for spring or summer wear. Here I am wearing it with my <a href="http://jacobiterose.blogspot.com/2013/02/simplicity-5385.html" target="_blank">1960s wrap skirt</a>. The sun was rather bright this morning, so my hat is shading my eyes!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rjWTfA5aYBQ/VTqkYidtAnI/AAAAAAAAE7E/znKyN8Il5Js/s1600/2015-04-24%2B09.53.16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rjWTfA5aYBQ/VTqkYidtAnI/AAAAAAAAE7E/znKyN8Il5Js/s1600/2015-04-24%2B09.53.16.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blouse back.</td></tr>
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And a back view. Surprisingly, the seam binding helps give the sleeves a little shoulder structure- especially since I left out the shoulder pads. I had intended to make my own, but decided in the end to leave them out. I kind of like my blouse as it is!</div>
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There are a lot of side view photos of the blouse, because I apparently was unable to look directly into the sun for my photo!</div>
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While I am here, I thought it might be nice to take a peek at my sewing diary. I never know quite what to call these- notebooks, diaries, journals... but it is a handwritten record of the project. </div>
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I spent some time the other day trying to find other people's notebooks, and I pinned those I could find, but none were quite like mine.</div>
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Most of the time I record everything about the project on the blog, but that is not very convenient when I want to see something when I am sewing. So I decided to make a hard copy too. My notebook started out as a sketchbook, but I decided I didn't like that very much. It has no room to rearrange things!</div>
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Then I remembered the tiny 5" x 8" binders I had bought some time ago. I purchased some 5" x 8" index cards, and I was off.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5v1ILiP_DSg/VTqsT_7mjiI/AAAAAAAAE9I/L2KR7g6euQA/s1600/2015-04-24%2B15.53.18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5v1ILiP_DSg/VTqsT_7mjiI/AAAAAAAAE9I/L2KR7g6euQA/s1600/2015-04-24%2B15.53.18.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sewing notebook, front view.</td></tr>
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The binder is plain. I am still debating whether it will stay plain, or whether I will sew it a cover! I created tabbed dividers from some cardstock I had around the house. And I added some decorative tape to the tabs after accidentally writing on the wrong side of them!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-41uLi7pjKmc/VTqsT9eHf1I/AAAAAAAAE9E/D3D4KxgFU1I/s1600/2015-04-24%2B15.53.24.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-41uLi7pjKmc/VTqsT9eHf1I/AAAAAAAAE9E/D3D4KxgFU1I/s1600/2015-04-24%2B15.53.24.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Simplicity 1538 blouse project pages.</td></tr>
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Currently I am dividing my notebook into categories- so far blouses, dresses, ideas and fabric. Or something like that - it will probably change. You can see the blouse project recorded above and below. I also added the issues I had with the fit of the other blouses and the changes I made.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s09ZEANrUEY/VTqsUCXgJBI/AAAAAAAAE9M/oPbqa5vUkAc/s1600/2015-04-24%2B15.53.31.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s09ZEANrUEY/VTqsUCXgJBI/AAAAAAAAE9M/oPbqa5vUkAc/s1600/2015-04-24%2B15.53.31.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And the rest of the blouse project pages.</td></tr>
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My former project recorded in the sketchbook, was my 4th July 1930s dress from a couple of years ago. I had the fabric, the pattern and my thoughts about it all down.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jH4gl66lfK0/VTqsYlPLp_I/AAAAAAAAE9c/9sCXZ4BNq-0/s1600/2015-04-24%2B15.53.38.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jH4gl66lfK0/VTqsYlPLp_I/AAAAAAAAE9c/9sCXZ4BNq-0/s1600/2015-04-24%2B15.53.38.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The 1930's 4th July dress.</td></tr>
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I stapled the old sketchbook page onto an index card, where I also glued a photo of the finished product- cool huh?<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z5boGMySZXo/VTqsZ3lyXcI/AAAAAAAAE9o/XxUYxUgNr-s/s1600/2015-04-24%2B15.53.45.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z5boGMySZXo/VTqsZ3lyXcI/AAAAAAAAE9o/XxUYxUgNr-s/s1600/2015-04-24%2B15.53.45.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">4th July Dress completed project.</td></tr>
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Some fabrics in my stash are also recorded in here- so I can remember what they are and how much of them I have - and how to take care of them if they have special instructions for washing. This piece is a piece of rayon. And these were in the sketchbook too...<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Wjb3AO1ygOA/VTqsZ95NkRI/AAAAAAAAE9k/enxeVhy-rDc/s1600/2015-04-24%2B15.53.52.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Wjb3AO1ygOA/VTqsZ95NkRI/AAAAAAAAE9k/enxeVhy-rDc/s1600/2015-04-24%2B15.53.52.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fabric pages.</td></tr>
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I also have some pages of sketches and ideas there, but forgot to photograph those.</div>
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So there you have it, a quick view into my sewing notebook. I'm hoping I keep the habit up, because it is kind of fun having the resource at my fingertips!</div>
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Spinnerettahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18335780710513434157noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2014582660745280934.post-38971629987945304112015-04-04T18:38:00.000-04:002015-04-04T18:38:16.325-04:00Spring for Cotton: Pattern Resizing<div dir="ltr">
So I'm resizing my blouse pattern using the techniques in this <a href="http://www.fashionpatterns.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=6&products_id=157" target="_blank">Connie Crawford workbook</a>. <br />
It's a great book, with different types of garment and detailed instructions. I also bought the grading ruler that goes with the book.</div>
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<a href="https://lh4.ggpht.com/-s0OBNNtjY3M/VSBkhSti08I/AAAAAAAAE4Y/4qNepOz1QN8/s640/20150404_181319.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-s0OBNNtjY3M/VSBkhSti08I/AAAAAAAAE4Y/4qNepOz1QN8/s640/20150404_181319.jpg" /></a></div>
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My pattern is a 1948 Simplicity, printed pattern. I've made view 3 and 1 (with short sleeves) before. My first attempt was a little snug over my shoulders (I still wore it a lot) while my second attempt with view 3 was a little roomy! I'm hoping this new technique will do the trick!<br />
I also picked out some buttons to go with my fabric... and since I am a sucker for novelty buttons, that's what I got!</div>
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<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Jhw3Cjhp68g/VSBkgjSoWcI/AAAAAAAAE4Q/GiDFz9MNASM/s1600/20150404_181230.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Jhw3Cjhp68g/VSBkgjSoWcI/AAAAAAAAE4Q/GiDFz9MNASM/s640/20150404_181230.jpg" /> </a> </div>
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The daisies just screamed "springlike" to me! I shall try to record some of my pattern grading as I go, and maybe blog about it some. Wish me luck!</div>
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It's been a while, but this would seem to be the perfect time to restart the blog. At least for the duration of <a href="http://luckylucille.com/2015/03/spring-for-cotton/">Spring for Cotton</a>. <br />
Yes, Rochelle over at <a href="http://luckylucille.com/">Lucky Lucille</a> is doing it again. This time it is one garment, 100% cotton and vintage inspired. That definitely is my kind of challenge!<br />
I have other projects on my list- a demanding child who has at least three things lined up for me to make her :), so I thought I would try for something simple.<br />
I picked up a guide to resizing patterns a few months back, and I plan to use it with this blouse pattern. I've made it before, twice, but both times messed up the size a little. This makes it perfect for a trial run!<br />
The fabric is a lightweight yellow, polka-dot cotton. I have been dying for some spring colours, <i>and </i>some blouses, so hopefully I'll be working on this soon!</div>
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Spinnerettahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18335780710513434157noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2014582660745280934.post-22373063763485416382013-10-20T22:36:00.002-04:002013-10-20T22:36:59.426-04:00Sewing along...I've been a little preoccupied recently. Basically, homeschool started up again, and trying to write a blog got put WAY back on the back burner. You know- after sewing, reading and schooling ;). So I planned a few blogs in my head (in places where there was no laptop of course LOL) and had to settle for that!<br /><br /><div>
Now, suddenly I remembered while I have time, so I shall go ahead and post some fun. Where was I?<br /><br />Right, last time I posted, it was my shorts. Which I ruined just last week by splashing bleach on them :( I was pretty upset- because every handmade item is a priceless one of a kind. Well, that is not strictly true- because the shorts didn't fit quite the way I wanted, so I wasn't very fond of them, but I certainly didn't want to ruin them either!<br /><br />There was a brief break after making the shorts- while we laid hardwood floors down in the house. They look awfully pretty, and have the distinct advantage of not having holes in them (unlike the carpet they replaced).<br /><br />At some point after that, not sure when, I made both this button back blouse and the capris. <br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CFGyemutuNc/UmSEzQEmGLI/AAAAAAAAEnE/LZL29tlDdc4/s1600/IMG_0668.JPG"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CFGyemutuNc/UmSEzQEmGLI/AAAAAAAAEnE/LZL29tlDdc4/s320/IMG_0668.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />The capris are from <a href="http://butterick.mccall.com/b5895-products-44972.php?page_id=4500">Gertie's pattern</a>. This pair I actually raised the waist a little on (I have a long torso). I think maybe too much! The first pair I made, are actually a little too low... so maybe a half inch lower. Either that or go down a size as the waist bags a little. Judging from these photos alone, I need to go down a size!<br /><br />The blouse is a peasant style one from an old mail order pattern. I don't think it has a brand name.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BvTjGI45QzM/UmSIT_haP0I/AAAAAAAAEnk/JWqzlwOPQ1Q/s1600/buttonbackclouse.jpg"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BvTjGI45QzM/UmSIT_haP0I/AAAAAAAAEnk/JWqzlwOPQ1Q/s320/buttonbackclouse.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />I loved the styling from the moment I saw it, and the button back... yes, that was a must have!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w0f6zbFNW8Q/UmSIPq-M77I/AAAAAAAAEnU/wKqR-_svHOs/s1600/IMG_0599.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w0f6zbFNW8Q/UmSIPq-M77I/AAAAAAAAEnU/wKqR-_svHOs/s320/IMG_0599.JPG" /></a></div>
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<br />You can't tell from this photo (many of the pictures in this post are taken with my iPad, which conveniently goes with me) but the buttons are cute little flower shaped ones. I've had compliments on the blouse too, one woman actually asking me where I got it! You might recognise my old <a href="http://jacobiterose.blogspot.com/2011/10/circle-skirt-and-knit-along.html">circle skirt</a>!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xuy1WBbiJUo/UmSIPmaMezI/AAAAAAAAEnY/G-8O6GudMdI/s1600/IMG_0603.JPG"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xuy1WBbiJUo/UmSIPmaMezI/AAAAAAAAEnY/G-8O6GudMdI/s320/IMG_0603.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />Here it is from the front, where you can see the peasant blouse styling. This fabric, a broadcloth, was actually chosen to go with my circle skirt, which has tiny blue flowers in this very colour! (Hey look, you can see those new floors behind me ;) )<br /><br />Next, I decided to participate in the "<a href="http://luckylucille.com/category/fall-for-cotton-sewalong/">Fall For Cotton</a>" sewalong hosted by Tasha at <a href="http://draft.blogger.com/%3Ca%20href=%22http://www.flickr.com/photos/rproffitt/9648668234/%22%20title=%22skirt%20by%20Spinneretta,%20on%20Flickr%22%3E%3Cimg%20src=%22http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2824/9648668234_01f5f64a6a.jpg%22%20width=%22375%22%20height=%22500%22%20alt=%22skirt%22%3E%3C/a%3E">By Gum by Golly</a> and Rochelle at <a href="http://luckylucille.com/">Lucky Lucille</a>. I had originally planned to sew a skirt and top, but school kicked in and sidetracked me!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nqwKvqACB9A/UmSEuMHJARI/AAAAAAAAEmk/f0ac5ddtoHA/s1600/IMG_0660.JPG"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nqwKvqACB9A/UmSEuMHJARI/AAAAAAAAEmk/f0ac5ddtoHA/s320/IMG_0660.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />I started off with Hollywood Pattern 435, which was alarming because I would need to size it up a lot!<br /><br />Instead, after looking carefully at the pattern, I realised it is a <a href="http://www.kalicofabric.com/half-circle-skirt.html">half circle skirt</a> (link goes to a half circle skirt tutorial), all I needed to do after that was to resize the waistband and place the markings. The belt tabs I could use as is.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JY_SoXVSBpw/UmSEzXHAF9I/AAAAAAAAEnI/eMmyZhm6qag/s1600/IMG_0671.JPG"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JY_SoXVSBpw/UmSEzXHAF9I/AAAAAAAAEnI/eMmyZhm6qag/s320/IMG_0671.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />I chose to use a lovely large polka-dot fabric I discovered at Joann Fabrics some time ago. I picked it because it was so very retro all by itself. And I knew it would one day be a skirt!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ndW2W174cNg/UmR5nSXYskI/AAAAAAAAEmQ/iGdvo_hYHho/s1600/me2.jpg"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ndW2W174cNg/UmR5nSXYskI/AAAAAAAAEmQ/iGdvo_hYHho/s320/me2.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />It is a fabulous skirt, so sassy! At least that is what the lady at the library told me! I have had many compliments on it- and I think a good amount of the compliments are because of the fabric!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ufTOiMcCM3c/UmSE0E2yoYI/AAAAAAAAEnM/7r7eHBqEDoA/s1600/backviewskirt.jpg"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ufTOiMcCM3c/UmSE0E2yoYI/AAAAAAAAEnM/7r7eHBqEDoA/s320/backviewskirt.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />The cut is very flattering for me, I think. In fact I liked it so much, I actually made a second one later (more below).<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4Mz-r2pMwx4/UmSEzhdXFfI/AAAAAAAAEnA/47hNImKAzo8/s1600/IMG_0697.JPG"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4Mz-r2pMwx4/UmSEzhdXFfI/AAAAAAAAEnA/47hNImKAzo8/s320/IMG_0697.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />I got kind of fancy here and used lace hem tape on the hem. I wish I could remember how I did it! However, the website says <i>"Application: To finish hem, position lace 1/4" from edge of fabric (right side). Machine stitch in place. Turn up, press. Hand stitch free edge to garment."</i><br />I think it looks very pretty!<br /><br />After the skirt, and once "<a href="http://luckylucille.com/category/fall-for-cotton-sewalong/">Fall for Cotton</a>" was completed, I had an urgent need. My sister was due to get married on October 5th (my birthday) and I decided (very last minute) to make myself a dress. My daughter had been sent a beautiful flower girl dress, and I, virtual bridesmaid extraordinaire, did not have a teal dress like the others! I did, however, have teal fabric and a dress I have been dying to make!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7Ad5ylcB8us/UmSKmLYqJkI/AAAAAAAAEnw/Gw7xJ72aoOo/s1600/dress.jpg"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7Ad5ylcB8us/UmSKmLYqJkI/AAAAAAAAEnw/Gw7xJ72aoOo/s320/dress.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />This is a 1950's Anne Adams (my favourite mail order pattern company) pattern- Anne Adams 4705. It is a wrap dress with rick-rack trim and really cool pockets. It took me one and a half days from tracing the pattern to wearing it for the wedding (which I attended via iPad).<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1DlEhbal0Uc/UmSMWKDiPvI/AAAAAAAAEoA/LscFJECWoSw/s1600/dressphoto.jpg"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1DlEhbal0Uc/UmSMWKDiPvI/AAAAAAAAEoA/LscFJECWoSw/s320/dressphoto.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />The wedding occurred at 1pm BST, which was about 8am here. I was up early to finish my dress and try and curl my hair (I gave up on that, 6:30am is way too early for that LOL especially on a SATURDAY). It was hot here, too. The hottest birthday I have ever had, at a cool 95*F!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LVBMnEoWwJQ/UmSMVbLbHMI/AAAAAAAAEn4/8A5XISf1yeg/s1600/dress2.jpg"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LVBMnEoWwJQ/UmSMVbLbHMI/AAAAAAAAEn4/8A5XISf1yeg/s320/dress2.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />The first photo, shows us in the cool morning, where the fog has hardly burnt off. The second is later, after I put my hair up (because it was too hot) and purloined my daughter's flower hair ornament! I apparently never turn around in this dress, because I cannot find a photo of the back! It is a shame, as I have a fancy vintage button for the top closure!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GRxkyRivFds/UmSEzYbIPHI/AAAAAAAAEm0/56eOilcSyl8/s1600/IMG_0662.JPG"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GRxkyRivFds/UmSEzYbIPHI/AAAAAAAAEm0/56eOilcSyl8/s320/IMG_0662.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />Having finished the dress, I managed to get around to making the blouse I had originally planned for 'Fall for Cotton'. This is an old Butterick pattern, late 30's or early 40's, Butterick 8388. It was lacking a size on the envelope, and I took it out and guessed it was pretty close to mine. After making a muslin/toile, I found it was actually EXACTLY my size! How awesome is that? I chose to make the plain view (A) with the sleeves from B and minus the pocket. I hoped the fabric would provide all the great details I could ever want. I mean... it is a cherry print. Another fabric I picked for its retro appeal!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Xzo7Zb3ziCg/UmSOpQxqBiI/AAAAAAAAEoI/iFBlqJXErVs/s1600/blouse.jpg"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Xzo7Zb3ziCg/UmSOpQxqBiI/AAAAAAAAEoI/iFBlqJXErVs/s320/blouse.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />You will have to settle for a photo of my husband and me though, as I have not got any good ones of me alone! You can actually see my latest project there too- the skirt. This is the second one made from my half circle skirt pattern- the white dot on the side is where my zip has not been fastened all the way- I did not realise it at the time! I added a small touch of lace to the cuffs on the sleeve, and wore the whole thing to my husband's high school reunion last night!</div>
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The skirt is a lovely, heavy cotton twill. It is almost the texture of denim, and will make a lovely addition to a winter wardrobe because of its nice heavy weight!<br />The blouse too will make it on my 'to make again' list- and watch this space for more skirts!</div>
Spinnerettahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18335780710513434157noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2014582660745280934.post-82776736857805911152013-06-22T19:50:00.001-04:002013-06-22T19:50:17.022-04:00Box Pleat Shorts: Simplicity 2017 (c.1947)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I have made the box pleat shorts from Simplicity 2017 several times now.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XksUY01BlWE/TgJnh-Nc2jI/AAAAAAAADao/PvXMlSmFZzQ/s320/simp-2017-shorts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XksUY01BlWE/TgJnh-Nc2jI/AAAAAAAADao/PvXMlSmFZzQ/s320/simp-2017-shorts.jpg" /></a></div>
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I first made them about t<a href="http://jacobiterose.blogspot.com/2011/06/new-clothes-or-old.html" target="_blank">wo years ago</a>, which is unfortunate, because I don't remember all the changes I made to the pattern to make them fit so nicely!</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-G3Rk0QSqF4k/UcYzFIpYqUI/AAAAAAAAEf8/QUuRv2sHYJU/s1600/shortsa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-G3Rk0QSqF4k/UcYzFIpYqUI/AAAAAAAAEf8/QUuRv2sHYJU/s320/shortsa.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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This is them about a year after I made them, with a blouse I made from a vintage pattern. I made view 1, because that was the one I really liked -which was fortunate, as the pack doesn't actually have view 3, which was the other pair I really liked in this pattern!</div>
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The second time I made these, I used a red twill instead of the blue broadcloth above. While I really liked the fabric, somehow I did not make them as well, and they fit rather badly. Not that this stopped me from wearing them ;) Somehow they are a little too small, and I had to shift the button to make them fit better.</div>
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One day, I had a vision of making these shorts in a print fabric, rather than the two plain fabrics I had used before. because they look rather skirt like, I had the idea they would look rather cute.</div>
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You can see that they are a practical blue and white, and you can see below the print, more detailed, and in a more accurate colour. And the vintage button I used to make them extra special! The fabric is a quilting cotton- apparently it is a print I like as I have it in a couple of colours!</div>
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And a rather squinty photo of me wearing them today- in the bright morning sun. When I first made these, I was waiting for a delivery, so no trying them on. After a nice day of sewing and watching Poirot, I discovered they were too small! So... I put them aside and sulked for the evening. The next morning, since I was still waiting on the delivery (somehow it all got mistakenly forgotten), I ripped the waistband off, let out the box pleats a little, and reapplied the waistband. Despite me trying them on before the waistband, they still ended up a little big, which meant I had to shift my button a little, creating a slight fold at the side. I did not want to go through all that again (the fold is not terribly noticable).<br />
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<b>Changes I made</b>: </div>
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I graded the pattern up a couple of sizes (I need to do it again, because I did it wrong last time!).</div>
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Since I missed having a second pocket EVERY time I wore them, I added one on the right- as you can see above.</div>
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I topstitched all the way around the waistband, rather than just along the bottom. You can see it in the button photo.</div>
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I let out the box pleats on the back to get a little more room.</div>
<b>Pattern tips</b>: careful with the pleats, they are best pressed before sewing, after top stitching and before hemming as well as after. If you add a second pocket, be careful to baste it to the front so it sits properly (I forgot first time around and got it backwards). You can let the pleats out a little to gain room if you somehow miscalculate, I did the back ones only. The waistband always catches me out. It needs to be the length of your waist PLUS a large overlap the size of the top of your pocket PLUS seam allowance. If you misalign the pocket on the left, you get drag marks. I always hem these fairly long, the pattern seems to indicate they should be a little shorter. I did use a bias strip along the bottom of my shorts to neaten the hem, and I overcast all of the seams.<br />
If you use cotton, they will crease, but adjusting them as you get up helps keep them neat.<br />
When attaching the waistband, sew it from the right side NOT the wrong side (as the pattern says to do so). Because sometimes the top-stitching will not catch all layers! Also stay stitch all the tops of the shorts to prevent ravelling. Both of these are issues I saw with pair #1.<br />
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Let me know if you have any questions!<br />
<br />Spinnerettahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18335780710513434157noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2014582660745280934.post-71425391514609408882013-03-31T12:57:00.002-04:002013-03-31T12:57:50.117-04:00Happy Easter- And Goodbye to Sew for Victory!All this mont<span style="color: #0000ee;">h, I have been sewing for <span style="color: #0000ee;">Victory, with <span style="color: #0000ee;">Rochelle and the cute Lucille over at <a href="http://luckylucille.com/" target="_blank">Lucky Lucille </a>.</span></span></span><br />
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<a href="http://luckylucille.com/2013/02/sew-for-victory-a-40s-sewalong/" target="_blank">
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Finally, the month has come to an end, and so has Sew for Victory. And I am not the only one with a new dress ;)</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zVwRW4dizCw/UVhkuyZ1DII/AAAAAAAAEWo/n4SzqWE15Do/s1600/Lenbun.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zVwRW4dizCw/UVhkuyZ1DII/AAAAAAAAEWo/n4SzqWE15Do/s320/Lenbun.jpg" width="240" /></a> </div>
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So, I also made a dress for my 9 year old daughter. In fact, she was super enthused about having a new dress. I fully remember this excitement- my own mother made me dresses as a girl, and I LOVED it. I was not one of those children that hated handmade, I thought my own dresses and jumpers/sweaters, were WAY better than those from the store. I can't say my mind has changed much ;)</div>
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So, I got DD to pick out a pattern, and she chose a late 30's pattern:</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hq9W9aGfDO8/UVhktyrkZsI/AAAAAAAAEWY/fqx_NO3AaNM/s1600/LenPatt.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hq9W9aGfDO8/UVhktyrkZsI/AAAAAAAAEWY/fqx_NO3AaNM/s320/LenPatt.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><u>Simplicity 3112</u></td></tr>
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This is Simplicity 3112, puffy sleeves, a piped bodice- definitely a 'princess' dress ;) I made the blue version on the top left. I lengthened the bodice slightly, because it was designed for an 8 year old- and DD is slightly taller than it called for. She is skinny though, so she still has growing room now I have done so ;)</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ymOVw91WVNY/UVhku5BPj3I/AAAAAAAAEWk/P97zyGOMkwA/s1600/LenPattPose.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ymOVw91WVNY/UVhku5BPj3I/AAAAAAAAEWk/P97zyGOMkwA/s320/LenPattPose.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">DD tries to mimic the pattern pose.</td></tr>
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I made her pose like the pattern ;) <a href="http://www.chronicallyvintage.com/" target="_blank">Jessica</a> will be impressed to see that I wasn't kidding when I told her the colours of DD's dress match <a href="http://www.chronicallyvintage.com/2013/03/an-easter-colour-palette-and-darling.html" target="_blank">her own outfit</a> :)</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/---hZe2KHjdA/UVhktUK5ulI/AAAAAAAAEWM/tLTduW_9XWM/s1600/LenBack.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/---hZe2KHjdA/UVhktUK5ulI/AAAAAAAAEWM/tLTduW_9XWM/s320/LenBack.jpg" width="204" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Back of dress.</td></tr>
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Here is the back. She has been sitting in it, so it is not quite as neat as it was! The sleeves are banded with a contrast of dark purple, and there is another band of contrast at the hem there. It is actually placed slightly UNDER the skirt, so it looks like an underskirt, but is really just another fabric.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Wm9chEu0xjA/UVhkt9pxFCI/AAAAAAAAEWU/bZYeLveACIg/s1600/LenEmbroidery.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Wm9chEu0xjA/UVhkt9pxFCI/AAAAAAAAEWU/bZYeLveACIg/s320/LenEmbroidery.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">embroidered eggs.</td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
And I got to play with my new embroidery feature. DD chose this Easter egg design, and the machine just embroidered it on. It kind of hides under the bow a bit, but that is probably due to the bow being SLIGHTLY different from the pattern. I had to double the fabric, since I couldn't just hem it- no matching thread ;)</div>
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So, what about me?</div>
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Would I honestly leave myself out? :)</div>
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Of course not! You'll see my lovely <a href="http://jacobiterose.blogspot.com/2013/03/sew-for-victory-and-more.html" target="_blank">cord skirt</a>, which has actually seen a number of outings since I made it. And a new top.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zHhFYwM_7fc/UVhpoUHcpZI/AAAAAAAAEXE/8TTjjba-yl8/s1600/simplicity1692.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zHhFYwM_7fc/UVhpoUHcpZI/AAAAAAAAEXE/8TTjjba-yl8/s320/simplicity1692.jpg" width="253" /></a></div>
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This one is from another reproduction pattern, Simplicity 1692. I chose to do View B, which actually comes out WAY nicer than the view on the envelope. Typical ;)</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fBqiV7TujQE/UVhps2WvHpI/AAAAAAAAEXQ/z4KBbP-o-mU/s1600/fabric.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fBqiV7TujQE/UVhps2WvHpI/AAAAAAAAEXQ/z4KBbP-o-mU/s320/fabric.jpg" width="320" /></a> </div>
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The fabric was a fantastic quilting cotton, that I just could not pass up. I looked it over several times, but then bought it in the coupon commotion sale at Joann Fabrics.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ju2aDk4ZPrE/UVhptdeU0fI/AAAAAAAAEXY/MDU-nrpkvZM/s1600/shining.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ju2aDk4ZPrE/UVhptdeU0fI/AAAAAAAAEXY/MDU-nrpkvZM/s320/shining.jpg" width="187" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I shine in the mirror ;)</td></tr>
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It took a while to make. Mostly because I ran out of thread halfway through AND because I was making DD's dress at the same time. But it is not a complicated sewing project, and would be much quicker to make if you read the instructions and put the zipper in correctly.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-boz8DIa1vLM/UVhpst-xq-I/AAAAAAAAEXM/z098-ka6-pc/s1600/behindcamera.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="248" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-boz8DIa1vLM/UVhpst-xq-I/AAAAAAAAEXM/z098-ka6-pc/s320/behindcamera.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A fun shot ;)</td></tr>
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I did add the bows. You can't really see them, but they are there. And I LOVE this blouse, it will definitely be seen out and about again!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mZW_Rds9KAI/UVhptjSKvPI/AAAAAAAAEXk/07PnpEmr7hk/s1600/seated.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mZW_Rds9KAI/UVhptjSKvPI/AAAAAAAAEXk/07PnpEmr7hk/s320/seated.jpg" width="242" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Happy Easter!</td></tr>
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I even did my hair and put on some lipstick this time ;) Happy Easter to everyone who celebrates it! I hope you have a lovely day!</div>
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Spinnerettahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18335780710513434157noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2014582660745280934.post-9557945364869091792013-03-21T12:47:00.004-04:002013-03-21T12:47:53.376-04:00Sew for Victory... A Wartime Style Pinny<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://luckylucille.com/2013/02/sew-for-victory-a-40s-sewalong/" target="_blank">
<img border="0" src="http://luckylucille.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/SFVlogo180.png" />
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The BBC has always been a great production company. Many of the British shows that are loved here in America, are produced by the BBC. And it was the BBC who produced Wartime Farm. It is a peek into the life of farmworkers during World War II, and well worth watching if you can find it where you are.<br />
Anyway, one of the things I loved on Wartime Farm, was Ruth Goodman's apron. She actually had several, but I loved the practicality and the bound edge.<br />
What *I* really wanted though, was one I saw on 1940's house.<br />
You can just about see it here:<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YD5oZo39b-g/UUsxPD1aUPI/AAAAAAAAEVE/fyYElBakKjM/s1600/inspiration.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="124" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YD5oZo39b-g/UUsxPD1aUPI/AAAAAAAAEVE/fyYElBakKjM/s320/inspiration.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source <a href="http://miss-beatrix.blogspot.com/2011/12/1900-house-and-1940s-house-time-to.html" target="_blank">here</a></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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and the side here:<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Eq0ubxiSTd4/UUsx28W6DEI/AAAAAAAAEVM/qiL7F2d5z4o/s1600/inspirationlyn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Eq0ubxiSTd4/UUsx28W6DEI/AAAAAAAAEVM/qiL7F2d5z4o/s320/inspirationlyn.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source <a href="http://miss-beatrix.blogspot.com/2011/12/1900-house-and-1940s-house-time-to.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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So I set to work. Initially, I looked for a period pattern. Ideally the pattern would feature a wrap around apron or coverall. Well, that is a lot easier said than done!<br />
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First I found this one.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://media-cache-lt0.pinterest.com/736x/f6/f8/aa/f6f8aa23c5ec462627ce94855344ee20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://media-cache-lt0.pinterest.com/736x/f6/f8/aa/f6f8aa23c5ec462627ce94855344ee20.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/267612402830190784/" target="_blank">Source</a>.</td></tr>
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It seemed perfect. Only I could not find it anywhere!<br />
Then I found this one:<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://media-cache-ec6.pinterest.com/736x/15/35/c8/1535c83a2d0323c95e8b977678f187d0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://media-cache-ec6.pinterest.com/736x/15/35/c8/1535c83a2d0323c95e8b977678f187d0.jpg" width="190" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/267612402830214026/" target="_blank">Source</a>.</td></tr>
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Right era, but it is only a PDF of the instructions for making your own from scraps. Well, I can figure out that much.<br />
Then I remembered. Many women from that time would use old aprons or make their own patterns to make new aprons. And so, my wrap apron was born.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6TC-3t0fFiI/UUsztWn0wEI/AAAAAAAAEVc/RsMmMoBiin8/s1600/front.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6TC-3t0fFiI/UUsztWn0wEI/AAAAAAAAEVc/RsMmMoBiin8/s320/front.jpg" width="260" /></a> </div>
<u></u><br />
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It is shorter than I planned. Primarily because I only realised later that I really need to make the front in two pieces rather than one. Apron 2 will also have the ties a little higher. You can just about see my pocket, with its bias edge.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="height: 371px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center; width: 267px;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YzESjEYqvf4/UUszsmBPCuI/AAAAAAAAEVU/kl2jHlkLLnE/s1600/back.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YzESjEYqvf4/UUszsmBPCuI/AAAAAAAAEVU/kl2jHlkLLnE/s320/back.jpg" width="255" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Back. You can see my ties.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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The pinny was really quick to put together (this had 4 seams, the change will add two more). The bias binding edge, on the other hand, took FOREVER to do. I placed a gap in each side seam so the tie can come through, whichever way I wrap my pinny.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jpgNLvZ13sE/UUszwrFC0OI/AAAAAAAAEVk/4k386J1X4Nk/s1600/side.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jpgNLvZ13sE/UUszwrFC0OI/AAAAAAAAEVk/4k386J1X4Nk/s320/side.jpg" width="274" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Side. You can just see the tie...</td></tr>
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The fabric, was $1.50 a yard from Walmart. It is a polycotton blend, as far as I can tell. They said undetermined. But I'd guess 80-20 Poly-cotton. That aside, it looks a lot like the kinds of fabric I remember seeing such aprons in. I got three yards, which was plenty, and would probably be more than enough with my newest adjustments. I'll let you know later.<br />
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I should also add something else I made recently: Kitchen Curtains.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tYxZPP0YtAo/UUs4AbfotbI/AAAAAAAAEV4/SVfaXS9Wg9k/s1600/IMG_0453.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tYxZPP0YtAo/UUs4AbfotbI/AAAAAAAAEV4/SVfaXS9Wg9k/s1600/IMG_0453.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tYxZPP0YtAo/UUs4AbfotbI/AAAAAAAAEV4/SVfaXS9Wg9k/s320/IMG_0453.JPG" width="240" /></a> </div>
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Here you can see the view from my window now :) Cheery red curtains.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NKrXyNaVkTA/UUs3_1kJntI/AAAAAAAAEVs/SCEJ8Zuk40A/s1600/IMG_0450.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NKrXyNaVkTA/UUs3_1kJntI/AAAAAAAAEVs/SCEJ8Zuk40A/s320/IMG_0450.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I made the sash to hold it back, and added some decorative stitching from my new sewing machine.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R12IhJEMR-8/UUs4AMgcVUI/AAAAAAAAEVw/Otqc-_Q9DQY/s1600/IMG_0451.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R12IhJEMR-8/UUs4AMgcVUI/AAAAAAAAEVw/Otqc-_Q9DQY/s320/IMG_0451.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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And I matched the base of the curtain to the sash, with a couple of rows of the decorative stitches. Pretty huh? :) (You don't have to answer that!).<br />
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<br />Spinnerettahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18335780710513434157noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2014582660745280934.post-90214359002908307482013-03-18T11:45:00.000-04:002013-03-18T11:45:04.046-04:00Sew for Victory... and more<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://luckylucille.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/SFVlogo180.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://luckylucille.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/SFVlogo180.png" /></a></div>
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And it is back to sewing again. As our cooler season comes to an end here, I decided to give myself one more cold weather outfit, because I figured I couldn't go wrong with a slightly heavier weight skirt than most I have.<br />
This time I picked a stretch cord. I didn't TRY to pick stretch corduroy, it just kind of happened. I totally forgot about reading the label and picked a fabric I have been wanting for <i>ages</i>. It is a pretty French Grey corduroy, which I thought would suit a winter wardrobe admirably. And I was right.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0cruvJjvtB4/UUcrTcw2JNI/AAAAAAAAETU/9ILhhXcbS04/s1600/MarianMartin9023.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0cruvJjvtB4/UUcrTcw2JNI/AAAAAAAAETU/9ILhhXcbS04/s320/MarianMartin9023.jpg" width="175" /></a></div>
This pattern has been in my collection for a while. I made the skirt once before, some time ago, and loved the way it fit BUT I forgot to make certain adjustments, and although the fit of the skirt is okay, the closure is a little too snug. It gapes. So this time I sized my skirt up a small amount. And promptly took it all out again, because the cord I chose was <i>stretchy</i> and did not need the upsize! I also chose to insert a zipper instead of having the placket seam with hook and eye or snap closures. Luckily, my upsize had included the waist, and it had <i>just</i> enough extra to make a hook and bar closure above the zipper.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nAWck77KFmU/UUcsB2zYOXI/AAAAAAAAETc/LCM2F-RFshE/s1600/IMG_0383.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nAWck77KFmU/UUcsB2zYOXI/AAAAAAAAETc/LCM2F-RFshE/s320/IMG_0383.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
I wasn't really sure about sewing with cord. I mean, the SEWING part is ok, but the seam treatment... does it fray a lot? I did know it pilled as I cut it! Luckily, my upsizing meant my seams had to be taken in, which gave all but one of them lots of extra fabric so I could make a very neat, turned seam. You can see it above- I have just folded the edge over, sewn it down and pressed it open. I really like the way it looks! The one exception was the zipper seam, where I cut it instead of ripping out the first seam. Since the zipper had to be installed there, I was not too upset- I didn't need extra thickness there. Instead I hand overcast the edge. And no, I don't have a photo!<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WWPF6SSI8JI/UUcujV5EyaI/AAAAAAAAET0/5W414N2dBnI/s1600/MMskirt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WWPF6SSI8JI/UUcujV5EyaI/AAAAAAAAET0/5W414N2dBnI/s320/MMskirt.jpg" width="192" /></a></div>
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Here is the skirt. It has been through a long car trip, plus a couple of hours walking around the Jamestown Military Through the Ages event. I teamed it up with my <a href="http://jacobiterose.blogspot.com/2013/02/sew-for-victory-simplicity-4864-1943.html" target="_blank">Sew for Victory blouse</a> and the crocheted gloves I made last year. And <i>kind</i> of did my hair (it was a humid day, I didn't even try for curls ;)). And shoes, well... walking + mud = comfortable shoes necessary. So that's my take on it anyway ;) I event forgot to get a photo of the back and side views, and ended up with just this front view. Well, at least the view tells me I need to add thicker shoulder pads to the blouse (I thought I might ;)).<br />
If you want authenticity, just read on :)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yoHB4prUeTo/UUcviOfsGWI/AAAAAAAAET8/B6cRQf9UM2o/s1600/IMG_0384.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yoHB4prUeTo/UUcviOfsGWI/AAAAAAAAET8/B6cRQf9UM2o/s320/IMG_0384.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Two lumberjills (British landgirl Army) talk to a lady dressed beautifully in what I think is a World War I outfit. Yes, the eras mesh at the event, and last year, my photos consisted mostly of anachronistic pairings LOL</td></tr>
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Military through the ages (which I should have blogged before, since we only do it <i>yearly</i>- as visitors, never re-enactors - though I'd love to!) is a yearly event held at <a href="http://www.historyisfun.org/" target="_blank">Jamestown Settlement</a> in Jamestown, Virginia. The Settlement is located not far from the historical site of Historic Jamestowne, where the original settlers of English America landed in 1607. The Settlement has a reconstructed fort with wattle and daub houses, where re-enactors help you to envision colonial life. Now, Military Through the Ages is an event where people re-enact military from all eras. I didn't take many photos this year, I kept forgetting, but you can see a set from 2010 <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rproffitt/sets/72157623546395217/with/4453773271/" target="_blank">here on my Flickr pages</a>.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jl09JcwX1HE/UUcvidfXLXI/AAAAAAAAEUA/0MNWibslgyk/s1600/IMG_0386.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jl09JcwX1HE/UUcvidfXLXI/AAAAAAAAEUA/0MNWibslgyk/s320/IMG_0386.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One landgirl teaches my daughter to milk "Bessie" the "cow" :) DD now wants goats. She'll even milk them, she tells me!</td></tr>
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I love the event. It brings history alive, and many encampments have battle re-enactments, or crafts for the kids to try out. We went through a bit hurriedly at points because the weather was supposed to turn wet later. Not that we need have worried, although a mudpit at points, it was quite some time later before the rain started.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The landgirl encampment. The lumberjills are eating on the left, while another landgirl on the right talks to another Brit... who might have been old enough to remember the landgirls ;) I thought these images might interest a number of our Sew For Victory participants!</td></tr>
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I made sure to get the landgirl encampment photographed for the Sew For Victory ladies. I forgot, however, to photograph many of the wonderful re-enactors who sat and talked to us though!<br />
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Not all of the re-enactors were women. Actually I have been overjoyed to see so many women appearing with their home-front and camp following acts, because most of the show features the military. Above is another British group, this time a group of soldiers. They and the landgirls bracketed a German camp!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Native American Indian woman prepares a stew with foraged foods and venison.</td></tr>
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Not all the re-enactors are obviously military. This lady, above, was in the Native American village.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Very posh!</td></tr>
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While these two gentlemen strolled the settlement from their camp. I am pretty sure they are from the Middle Ages, probably one of the German mercenary camps. I have seen their group at the event on numerous occasions, and they are very good!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cT8sO2UsaEE/UUcvlW0hpXI/AAAAAAAAEUs/j0vjH8x9f-I/s1600/IMG_0410.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cT8sO2UsaEE/UUcvlW0hpXI/AAAAAAAAEUs/j0vjH8x9f-I/s320/IMG_0410.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vikings</td></tr>
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This is a Viking Mercenary, and not Hulk Hogan ;) He was very informative- his tent can be picked up and carried around easily. Opposite him were the Romans and another Medieval camp.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Irish terrorists. Their term.</td></tr>
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The event can be loud. These Irish terrorists (their term, not mine) are fighting some patrolling British in early 20th Century Ireland. They used VERY loud props- the guns being filled with what my husband tells me is a full load. I think that means a blank with the same amount of powder as a real bullet.<br />
They also fire cannons at the event, and were going to fire a howitzer until they spotted a Bald Eagle.<br />
I could go on and on, but won't. If you ever want to attend the event, it is always in March and goes over a whole weekend <i>for the visitor</i> but the re-enactors actually come a little earlier.<br />
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I hope you enjoyed this quick trip to the past, hopefully I will be back later this week with some more stuff to show you!<br />
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Spinnerettahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18335780710513434157noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2014582660745280934.post-60730058999363807792013-03-03T21:25:00.001-05:002013-03-03T21:25:09.308-05:00Sew for Victory: Simplicity 3688 (1941 repro)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The second part of my Sew For Victory project, was a pair of trousers. Although it IS possible to find vintage patterns for trousers, they are a pain in the backside because they tend to be the smaller sizes and I end up having to re-size them. I do own a couple though, but this is my favourite trouser pattern.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-boiaHVl3Ed4/URxRGv4l4YI/AAAAAAAAENM/sdBkctgBGx8/s1600/Simplicity3688-repro.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-boiaHVl3Ed4/URxRGv4l4YI/AAAAAAAAENM/sdBkctgBGx8/s320/Simplicity3688-repro.jpg" width="225" /></a></div>
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I'm not the only one to make them. <a href="http://blog.bygumbygolly.com/2013/02/finished-sew-grateful-week-1941-trousers.html" target="_blank">Tasha</a> has made them and so has <a href="http://polkapolish.blogspot.com/2013/02/week-411-boyish.html" target="_blank">Frances</a> and yes, so has <a href="http://www.myhappysewingplace.com/2010/03/yipppeee-1941-trousers-are-finished.html" target="_blank">Debi</a>. And there are several participants in the <a href="http://www.flickr.com/groups/sewforvictory/" target="_blank">Sew For Victory</a> challenge who have made them too :)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HNQhZ0yPw54/UTP-YEtiO7I/AAAAAAAAESQ/omVLl_iL-dw/s1600/trouser1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HNQhZ0yPw54/UTP-YEtiO7I/AAAAAAAAESQ/omVLl_iL-dw/s320/trouser1.jpg" width="184" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My 1941 trousers and 1943 blouse.</td></tr>
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Here are my completed trousers, with the already finished blouse. So... I cropped the pictures. I am pulling the most awful faces in them ALL (except the back view LOL) and I am not sure why. <br />I have the slightest suspicion I have not quite gotten the lining quite right at the bottom of the legs. Try as I might, I can't quite get them to sit right there. I don't care though, because they are THE most comfortable trousers I have ever owned. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3CnlanWJM-g/UTP-ZDarjQI/AAAAAAAAESg/JMRU4wKjTuc/s1600/trouser2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3CnlanWJM-g/UTP-ZDarjQI/AAAAAAAAESg/JMRU4wKjTuc/s320/trouser2.jpg" width="194" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Back view.</td></tr>
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This silk blend tweed is a beautiful fabric I found in the Joann Fabrics' red tag 1/2 price sale, some time before Christmas. There was just enough to make these trousers, with a very little left over. I fell in love with it, and bought the last of the bolt. But, being a woven pattern, it has the tendency to fray.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sZKf3oYtm3o/UTQAQcA1egI/AAAAAAAAETA/HUwDXGzgqqU/s1600/IMG_0375.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sZKf3oYtm3o/UTQAQcA1egI/AAAAAAAAETA/HUwDXGzgqqU/s320/IMG_0375.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nubby silk-blend, herringbone tweed.</td></tr>
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So I used my new sewing machine to overcast the edges. Oh my goodness, did that take forever or what?! But, overcasting is one of the new things I can now do!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cTvTA8olHD8/UTQAKGMkziI/AAAAAAAAESo/lzE0Kn9va1E/s1600/IMG_0376.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cTvTA8olHD8/UTQAKGMkziI/AAAAAAAAESo/lzE0Kn9va1E/s320/IMG_0376.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My new embroidery machine. Expect to see more about that soon.</td></tr>
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It is a very cool machine. I can use it to embroider and more, and actually used it earlier today to make some curtains for the kitchen- with some special decorative elements. More on those in another post though!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1xxqVv4JOLs/UTQAPnU_EzI/AAAAAAAAESw/hicwPDQdoto/s1600/IMG_0372.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1xxqVv4JOLs/UTQAPnU_EzI/AAAAAAAAESw/hicwPDQdoto/s320/IMG_0372.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Please excuse this night-time photo. You can see the lovely lining though.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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I fully lined the trousers, because the tweed is a little scratchy. I can't remember if the blend had wool in it or not, I forgot to re-read the bolt tags before it was thrown out. I lined it with a soft and silky Bemberg rayon. They are the most comfortable trousers EVER!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ya_eE6lpoaY/UTQAP7r0ZjI/AAAAAAAAES0/Jh9PCzmP23E/s1600/IMG_0373.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ya_eE6lpoaY/UTQAP7r0ZjI/AAAAAAAAES0/Jh9PCzmP23E/s320/IMG_0373.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another night-time photo. Because I cannot photograph these while wearing them.</td></tr>
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The buttons are rather lovely aren't they? I found those, yesterday, in an antique shop. Four of them for 59 cents.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0FjQ07DDz8k/UTP-X7dJZXI/AAAAAAAAESU/pXvMqCiifVg/s1600/trouser3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0FjQ07DDz8k/UTP-X7dJZXI/AAAAAAAAESU/pXvMqCiifVg/s320/trouser3.jpg" width="218" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Side view.</td></tr>
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There is a lot of back story to these. First I had to redo my side
opening- because I put it on the wrong side initially. I was originally
going to leave it there, but I knew it would really bother me. The fastening on these trousers is a point that really bothers me. For some reason, every time I make these, the zip does not come up far enough. Which means there is a slight gap between the zip top and the button flap. The other pair I made was the same way. Which means I need to remember to ignore the notch on the side and sew a little higher! The issue for me, has been that it tells you to sew the zip to the trousers an inch below the waistband. Next time, I shall ignore this!<br />
Adjustments: I am just tall enough I need to make several adjustments to these. 1. I added an inch to the leg length. I have real problems with leg length- my legs are long enough that regular length never is quite long enough for me, but the tall sizes are always TOO long!<br />
2. I also added an inch to the upper area of the trousers- above the crotch. I apparently also have a long torso compared to the ladies of the 40s.<br />
3. I lined them. I also had to French seam the lining, which made the zipper opening even more trouble- but that is my own fault for not planning ahead! <br />
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The pattern is a great pattern though, with the exception of the zipper area, I have found it to be a trouble free pattern- highly recommended for anyone wanting to start out with trousers!<br />
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Anyway, there are my Sew For Victory clothes, completed. I might have a few more things made by the end of the month (my sewing queue is getting long) but we'll see!Spinnerettahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18335780710513434157noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2014582660745280934.post-13022832404188413582013-02-17T13:58:00.003-05:002013-02-17T13:58:41.531-05:00Sew for Victory: Simplicity 4864 (1943)So I pretty much finished my 1940s blouse. It still needs a pair of shoulder pads put in, and a GOOD photo of it in bright light. Sorry, you are going to have to deal with my instagram and washed out photos (because it is WAAAAY too cold to go out and try again!).<br />
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Here is the front. With a 22*F windchill I am shivering! My hair is up in a snood I made because I got tired of it blowing in my face the FIRST time I tried to get photos.<br />
Those are my wearable muslin version of the trouser pattern I will be making next. As you see- another blue piece of clothing :)<br />
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The trousers are actually very slimming. You can see here from the most unflattering side view, how my mother physique is rendered less apple-like ;) The wind is blowing, so things are not exactly placed as I prefer!<br />
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I tried a new technique I read about yesterday, in the newest issue of Threads Magazine. Covered snap fasteners. And a locking stitch to sew them in place. I haven't had a chance to really see how well it will hole up though.<br />
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I managed to find the perfect buttons first try! These orange buttons matched the fabric scrap I took with me, and I knew they were winners! I was also fairly pleased with the way the bow turned out, although it took a few tries.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rproffitt/8482457938/" title="Finished! Now I'm cleaning my tailor marks :) #sewforvictory by Spinneretta, on Flickr"><img alt="Finished! Now I'm cleaning my tailor marks :) #sewforvictory" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8388/8482457938_7aa46cfd33.jpg" width="500" /> </a></div>
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Here you can see it in my instagram photo - NOT set in place though.</div>
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Spinnerettahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18335780710513434157noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2014582660745280934.post-36643086616236890022013-02-16T22:08:00.001-05:002013-02-16T22:08:15.631-05:00Simplicity 5385Normally I am not a fan of patterns from the 1960s. Oh don't get me wrong, I think many of the 60s fashions are beautiful, but I prefer those from the late 30s through the 50s, much more my thing.<br />
So when I found some vintage patterns in an antique shop for $1 a piece, I wasn't about to turn down the patterns even though they were not all from my favourite eras.<br />
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And this was one of the patterns I found.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KkaSalByRd4/USBDmhSz2FI/AAAAAAAAEN8/zfpSQlTZnhM/s1600/simplicity5385-14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KkaSalByRd4/USBDmhSz2FI/AAAAAAAAEN8/zfpSQlTZnhM/s320/simplicity5385-14.jpg" width="203" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Simplicity 5385- from 1964. The notation says "This skirt really fits".</td></tr>
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I found the annotation on the envelope especially fun :) The pattern is from 1964, and features a shift tunic/dress and an a-line WRAP skirt. Yes, a wrap skirt. It immediately went on my 'to-make' list.<br />
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It is a fairly quick make. It is a two-piece pattern, seamed down the front. Two large patch pockets are placed on the front, and the skirt is fastened with a snap and ties that come round and are tied in the front.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZhZvoO3fZqk/USBFQKkdKrI/AAAAAAAAEOE/LHvfTF2QFdI/s1600/Simplicity_5385_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="221" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZhZvoO3fZqk/USBFQKkdKrI/AAAAAAAAEOE/LHvfTF2QFdI/s320/Simplicity_5385_2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The back of Simplicity 5385</td></tr>
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You can see the fun design, here, on the back of the pattern envelope. <br />
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So, when I decided to make it, I chose a poly-cotton blend, twill, bottom-weight fabric. I wanted it to be sturdy and casual, and this seemed like a good choice. I finished it last week, just before starting my Sew For Victory Challenge!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sVMOR7Lv7Wc/USBG96vHHxI/AAAAAAAAEOM/v2uV27lsQSI/s1600/SkirtFront.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sVMOR7Lv7Wc/USBG96vHHxI/AAAAAAAAEOM/v2uV27lsQSI/s320/SkirtFront.jpg" width="190" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The front of my skirt.</td></tr>
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The added advantage of a heavier weight fabric, is that it helped it to maintain it's a-line shape, which is always nice. Please excuse the awkward pose, it was pretty cold out ;) And please excuse the wrinkles, I had already sat down in the skirt.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Wp37P0ILKAY/USBG-NkCaOI/AAAAAAAAEOQ/A37tiTxcPuQ/s1600/Skirtback.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Wp37P0ILKAY/USBG-NkCaOI/AAAAAAAAEOQ/A37tiTxcPuQ/s320/Skirtback.jpg" width="196" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And the back. I find this one rather flattering!</td></tr>
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The back allows you to see the 'wrap' of the skirt. I *did* learn a few things with this. <br />
1. When making a back wrap skirt, you need to make sure the fastener at the waist is far enough over that the skirt won't flash people as you walk along. A petticoat is also a good idea ;)<br />
2. Watch the scissors. They will manage to mysteriously cut a hole in your skirt if you don't watch.<br />
3. When enlarging the pattern, you might like to add length to the wrap ends to prevent the fastener placement being as much of an issue ;)<br />
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The large pockets are also awesome. Not that I have used them for much except putting my hands in and for holding the fabric for my 1940's blouse when I went to choose buttons (more on that later... I'm almost finished!).<br />
Yes, you'll have noticed that I once again chose blue, which is one of my staple wardrobe colours - it goes with a lot!<br />
You can find a great post about vintage wrap skirt patterns at the <a href="http://midvalevintagepost.blogspot.com/2013/02/the-ever-popular-wrap-skirt-1960s-style.html?showComment=1360964864190#c4518009764137005790" target="_blank">Midvale Cottage Post</a>. I love the linings in the skirts featured, and would definitely consider making this one again, only with a lining!<br />
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Back soon with an update to my sew for victory challenge!<br />
<br />Spinnerettahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18335780710513434157noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2014582660745280934.post-20385543875728313442013-02-13T21:59:00.000-05:002013-02-13T21:59:27.233-05:00Sew for VictoryWell, Happy New Year, Happy Valentines Day and more to you. Yes, it has been a while since I got a post up. Much of January was spent with the family being ill, the rest was just a trying time of getting back into the rhythm of life!<br />
I have some great things I want to share with you, but as always, some of those will just have to wait until I can manage to get a good photo during the day. <br />
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First and foremost, though, is a sewing challenge hosted by the fabulous Rochelle of <a href="http://luckylucille.com/" target="_blank">Lucky Lucille</a>.<br />
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Yes. A vintage themed sew along! All those participating will sew a 1940's/1940's inspired pattern. You can go see all the <a href="http://luckylucille.com/2013/02/sew-for-victory-a-40s-sewalong/" target="_blank">details here</a>, along with a fun video featuring Rochelle's really cute dog Lucille :)<br />
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What am I making? I shall be sewing some more trousers from the <a href="http://www.simplicity.com/p-1976-misses-plus-size-sportswear.aspx" target="_blank">Simplicity 3688</a> reproduction pattern. No biggie, I have made them before, along with lots of adjustments, so I am saving them for last.<br />
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They are very flattering and comfortable to wear, and my wearable muslin (toile) has seen a LOT of wear. <a href="http://blog.bygumbygolly.com/2013/02/finished-sew-grateful-week-1941-trousers.html" target="_blank">Tasha at By Gum By Golly</a> made a fantastic pair just a couple of weeks ago, for <a href="http://fashionsfromthepast.blogspot.com/2013/02/sew-grateful-week-projects-link-party.html" target="_blank">Debi's Sew Grateful week</a> (this is the final post, you should definitely look at the rest). You have to check both of those out if you haven't already!<br />
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I shall also be making this lovely blouse... view 3. That would be the bow blouse on the far right. I purchased this pattern for the bow blouse and the scalloped blouse, so I am excited to start sewing on it. In fact, I started today, so maybe post later with the fabric and more. <br />
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On an artistic note, I found something fascinating the other day, pertaining specifically to the illustrations on these patterns. I hope to post more on that later!<br />
In the meantime, follow along with the other sewists on <a href="http://www.flickr.com/groups/sewforvictory/" target="_blank">Flickr</a>, and perhaps I might get my instagram groove on later!Spinnerettahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18335780710513434157noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2014582660745280934.post-21149401036813563232012-12-16T20:00:00.000-05:002012-12-16T20:00:01.033-05:00A Williamsburg Christmas: Part 2<br />
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So, back to the Williamsburg decorations. Where possible, I have tried to put what was in the wreath. I am sure I have missed something somewhere. I hope you enjoy the exploration of Williamsburg.<br />
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Maybe decorate just one side of a wreath.<br />
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This is the wigmaker's house. I think that wreath might have 'hair' on it!<br />
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Flower in the corner from dried leaves and a shell. Plain wreath.<br />
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Dried flower header with locust pods.<br />
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A rope wreath with flowers and greenery.<br />
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Twine wrapped header with dried stuff. That's technical jargon, that is ;)<br />
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Cotton, dried flowers and seed pods.<br />
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A simple bunch of dried flowers and grasses, wrapped in cloth.<br />
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I love how this one looks like there is a sheep in the middle of it! Looking closer, you can see it is actually a 'nest' of grasses and flowers, with a cotton and feather chicken sitting on eggs :) Clever, huh?<br />
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Shells.<br />
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Dried flowers.<br />
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Seedpods, flowers, cotton and grasses.<br />
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Window decor with dried oranges and dried herbs.<br />
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Corner decoration... dried flowers and dried peppers.<br />
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Orange clusters, evenly spaced.<br />
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Dried herbs, seed pods, arranged in a diamond pattern.<br />
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A pinecone with moss, dried herbs, sweetgum pods, dried oranges and cinnamon sticks. It is a marvellously clever window decoration.<br />
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Dried flowers.<br /><br />
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Really great garland consisting of dried fruit. <br /><br />
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Shells, dried fruit and dried flowers. Sprays of wheat around the outside. <br /><br />
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I had a model for this one :) The garland is a spectacular creation of flowers. Chrysanthemums I think.<br />
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Paper birds and hearts, and a couple of playing cards.<br />
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We interrupt this broadcast to take a look at the kids modelling knits. And showing their true colours ;)<br />
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Dried herbs and flowers, with a spray of feathers!<br />
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A prizewinner with wheat and corn.<br />
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The wreath and the window decorations match rather well.<br />
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Grapevine wreath with seedpods.<br />
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Dried fruit in the center, surrounded by wheat around it.<br />
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I love these corner displays on the roping. I wonder how they hold them on?<br />
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Dried fruits and seedpods. And docent ;)<br />
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Altogether, you can see my model and a house with wreath, header and window decorations.<br />
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A nice pineapple with oranges surrounding it. And a wreath of greenery and berry sprays.<br />
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A very simple window decoration- fir branches with an apple in the centre.<br />
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This wreath is pretty amazing when you look closer. Dried flowers, seed pods and the like. The header matches and also has a couple of wooden spoons.<br />
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I have always loved the steps on this building.<br />
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This wreath is a prize winner. There are playing cards cut to look like flowers on this one. And a pixie who is modelling her brand new (knit by me) pixie hat.<br />
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Another pretty header. You'll notice my light is fading fast at this point!<br />
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Even the taverns decorate. Shells, dried flowers and ale cups dominate this one.<br />
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The town hall gets in on the act too.<br />
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This is a wreath with osage orange fruit on it- they are the giant balls that look like brains ;)<br />
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This wreath is at the milliners- a dried grapevine with dried flowers in a most unique display.<br />
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This picture is one that annoys me terribly. A couple of people just stood there in my way, and did not want to move AT ALL. So my photo is really blurry, which is a real shame as this spray is one of the more spectacular. <br /><br />
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The Governor's Palace, even at a distance, is always spectacular.<br /><br />
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My favourite house in Williamsburg- it is tiny! It has fruit on the wreath, which is far harder to see now.<br />
These two photos are a little blurry, sorry. Light was fading fast!<br />
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Fruit... I think the top left orange is mouldy- so even the ones there suffer ;)<br />
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Even the stores in Williamsburg get in on the act- this is window in Barnes and Noble!Spinnerettahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18335780710513434157noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2014582660745280934.post-39087581590070777422012-12-15T22:57:00.000-05:002012-12-15T22:57:17.598-05:00Christmas Inspiration: Williamsburg Style<br />
Living in Virginia means Colonial Williamsburg is just a hop, skip and
jump away. This is especially good when it comes to Christmas
decorations, for which Colonial Williamsburg is justifiably famous!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sAhonG9EXAI/UM06hksCBBI/AAAAAAAAD_Y/nKMy6MuwYqg/s1600/IMG_0237.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="297" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sAhonG9EXAI/UM06hksCBBI/AAAAAAAAD_Y/nKMy6MuwYqg/s320/IMG_0237.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This
house is at the end of the main street in Williamsburg (Duke of
Gloucester or DOG Street). Each of the little niches in the brick, is
filled with an apple. You can also see the wreathes, window decorations
and header over the door.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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So, every year, I convince my family to go down to Williamsburg, and look at the decorations. The kids are usually bored to death, while I spend all my time running to catch up with the family, and my photos are taken at odd angles so as to cut out other visitors from them!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FsDc6gLBUFk/UM07Pnf_dDI/AAAAAAAAD_g/zbzkTY0VqbQ/s1600/IMG_0176.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FsDc6gLBUFk/UM07Pnf_dDI/AAAAAAAAD_g/zbzkTY0VqbQ/s320/IMG_0176.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of my oddly angled shots. This lovely cape has wreathes on the doors and windows, as well as the roping around the doorway.</td></tr>
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I was reminded just the other day, how I have never actually done a post about Christmas at Colonial Williamsburg, so I thought it a fitting time to remedy that oversight!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pS2FT_cbZBE/UM07gWTXGkI/AAAAAAAAD_o/wzDjAz-yjuE/s1600/IMG_0175.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pS2FT_cbZBE/UM07gWTXGkI/AAAAAAAAD_o/wzDjAz-yjuE/s320/IMG_0175.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The roping and wreathes are on almost every doorway there. In fact, this time I took photos of every single one on DOG street. We got there a little too late to do the other streets though.</td></tr>
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This is a picture heavy post, so take your time and get some great ideas. I have attempted to provide a decently sized photo, so you can see the detail in the wreathes, but blogger does have a nasty habit of resizing.<br />
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This is one of the simpler wreathes. It has boxwood and berries as the green base. I am not sure what the berries are from, sorry! There are dried orange slices and a dried pomegranate for details. Both of those are sold at the DOG (Duke of Gloucester) Street garden stand.<br />
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This is a closer shot of the tailoring shop shown above. This one has a greenery base consisting of fir tree, then dried seed pods, dried flowers, dried orange slices and berries around it.<br />
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The shops tend to theme their wreathes. This one has some burlap wrapped around a spray of seed pods. It belongs on the weird angled photo from above ;)<br />
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This one is colourful- the white is cotton and the others are flowers- I think carnations and cockscomb.<br />
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The simpler ones consist of just greenery and berries. That the berries are a contrasting red, to the greenery only makes it more stunning in its simplicity!<br />
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Another themed one. This one has cotton, twigs and woven fabrics at its center.<br />
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Doorways are often focal points. This was a very elaborate one with a straw wreath base surrounded by dried flowers and a pinecone at the keystone point. The sprays of twigs above have more dried flowers, pinecones and some cotton.<br />
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Not every door had a wreath. Some were bracketed with these sprays. The sprays are made with the same ingredients as the wreathes, they just have a different look :)<br />
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People put them on windows- with little shapes surrounding an artichoke...<br />
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Or on the porch railings.<br />
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Others chose to emphasise the corners of the doors...<br />
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Or maybe the shutters.<br />
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If the door stays open a lot, a header and side pieces make more sense. That header is made of apples and a pineapple!<br />
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Some of them have costumed docents standing outside for extra colour. I don't think my family would agree to that though! If you look closely, you'll see a leather shoe on the wreath, by the way.<br />
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Apples, lady apples, locust pods, pinecones and dried flowers.<br />
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Apples, pineapples and dried flowers. And another docent ;)<br />
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Stirrups with apples on them. And a horseshoe in the middle. Apples on magnolia leaves in the corner.<br />
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Maybe a little brass horn on the wreath...<br />
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Or a basket of fruit above the door. This one appears to have a horse yoke of some sort as the wreath base, with wheat and apples in it.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Just because you are Jewish, doesn't mean you have to miss out on the fun! This is a Star of David 'wreath', with something in the middle. I am sorry, I have no idea what hte thing in the middle is... it might be a lantern representation. Other years have had dreidels on the wreath :)<br />
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If you're a baker, celebrate with cookie cutters, dough ornaments and maybe a spoon or two.<br />
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Windows and doors can match, using harvest themes of wheat and fruit.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Harvest is often a theme- this one sports wheat with coloured locust pods and dried flowers.<br />
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Roping can be used to bring it all together. The white things on this one, by the way, are fans. Paper fans.<br />
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Lady apples.<br />
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A fabulous design of dried fruits and flowers...<br />
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Or maybe fresh fruits and shells.<br />
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Place it on the porch railing and put roping around the windows.<br />
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From a distance, (you have no idea how lucky this empty street shot is!) the wreathes are very festive.<br />
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OK I have a ton more photos, BUT, I think this post is long enough right now! I shall do a second post with the rest later.<br />
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<br />Spinnerettahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18335780710513434157noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2014582660745280934.post-89297900786103782982012-11-08T10:26:00.001-05:002021-10-17T22:16:42.258-04:00Knitted StockingsThe blogs have all been full of winter this week. Well except those in Australia, where they are all about summer, but those of us in the Northern hemisphere have been getting ready for the cold weather to come.<br />
I thought this was a super opportunity to knit something warm, when I came across these two beauties in a pattern book I found in an antique store.<br />
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"Grandma kept warm in tights..." exclaims the headline. "Modern women are wearing full length wool stockings like these for smart heat conservation. They are flattering and comfortable."<br />
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Wow, I thought, I have to get this! The book dates from 1942, and if you look very closely, you can see that the pair on the right is actually held up with your normal, everyday suspender belt/garter belt.<br />
They are knitted at a tiny 17 sts per 2 inches, 12 rounds to an inch. Since this is vintage Beehive 2ply Scotch fingering - a 9st per inch gauge/tension was normal! There were 230 yards to the skeins, and you needed 4-5 skeins, depending on your shoe size.<br />
The sizes of the pattern have actually caused me a little confusion. They both claim to be for sizes 9-10-11, which seems on the large size for back then... and since it plainly states that change of size occurs in length of foot only, then I can assume that these are in fact the shoe sizes. I would guess you could easily change the size of the foot to fit your own however :)<br />
Because, yes, I am feeling incredibly generous, and am sharing this pattern with you ;)<br />
As always, these patterns are for personal use only, and NOT for resale. But you can do what you like with anything you make from it, just share pattern credits ;)<br />
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You can get your pattern here: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0X9frqFuGGyN3B5Qmh2WGNIcFU/view?usp=sharing&resourcekey=0-69ydonOWTgXO51TRnXrrPA" target="_blank">1942 Knitted Stockings</a> Happy Knitting!<br />
<br />Spinnerettahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18335780710513434157noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2014582660745280934.post-7780567099238589912012-10-26T10:40:00.000-04:002012-10-26T10:42:30.367-04:00Free Pattern Friday: Surplice SetSo our family is celebrating a new baby! My brother is a new daddy, with my nephew being born just yesterday morning. So it seems fitting to me, that in celebration, I should share a BABY pattern with you.<br />
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The fortunate thing about baby patterns, is that they never really go out of style. There are still matinee coats and sacques, baby bonnets and bootees. You can find vintage patterns for socks, cardigans, rompers and more... and your baby will look <i>just</i> as cute (if not cuter) than the ones in the vintage pattern books!<br />
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Even better, most of the older baby patterns have that heirloom quality look to them. I have lots of lovely handmades that my Mum and Nan made for my kids... and they are hidden away in my closets. I love handmade baby things, and while I know not ALL parents are appreciative of them, that doesn't mean people don't like them!<br />
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Because I am mean, I find it absolutely hilarious when I see these little elf like hats for babies. And yes, I would totally dress a baby of mine in them, because they are also cute!<br />
I <i>think</i> this pattern is for an infant. It doesn't really say. Which means that it is totally possible it will knit up for a larger baby, which is fine, since the baby can grow into it!<br />
It is 8 sts to the inch, which is a totally normal baby pattern. Use baby yarn NOT baby sport as that will knit up too large and you are using very small needles already (US 1 and US 3 - that is 2.25mm and 3.25mm or UK 13 and UK 10). You can also use fingering weight yarn (that would be 3ply or 4ply), but I am a fan of the acrylic yarns for baby BECAUSE they can be washed, even if my sensibilities say natural is nicer ;)<br />
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Baby knitting patterns are actually an awesome place to start if you are a relative newbie knitter. These miniature clothes will let you try out some of the more complicated knitting techniques (decreases and shaping) without taking forever to knit. This one also has a cable up the front. If you DO want to make it, I highly recommend learning more about matching <a href="http://www.knittinghelp.com/videos/increases" target="_blank">increases</a> and <a href="http://www.knittinghelp.com/videos/decreases" target="_blank">decreases</a>. It will give your garment that professional look. The links take you to some helpful videos ;)<br />
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You can get the <a href="https://docs.google.com/open?id=0B0X9frqFuGGyMkFwaEI0V3pRTnc" target="_blank">Surplice set here</a>. Happy Knitting!Spinnerettahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18335780710513434157noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2014582660745280934.post-3439682256958936212012-10-05T09:39:00.001-04:002022-02-14T12:46:57.382-05:00Free Pattern Friday: A Birthday PresentIt's my birthday, so I thought I would share a lovely pattern with you!<br />
Last time I shared the partner cardigan to this one.<br />
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See - the one on the left was the one I shared with you last time. This time, you get my favourite from this particular pattern book, the one on the right!<br />
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It has a beautiful bell shaped pattern on the front of it... which is sure to make knitting this cardigan fun!<br />
The gauge/tension is 5 stitches and 7 rows to 1 inch. That means it is another fabulous worsted yarn weight cardigan!<br />
I plan to knit this one myself... I am debating between a lovely red or maybe off white :)<br />
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Anyway, you can download the <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0X9frqFuGGyMWhEUmdUWGhMWnM/view?usp=sharing&resourcekey=0-o3BBd5mEdhHUKuHuyPUNwQ" target="_blank">Pattern in PDF here</a>.<br />
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Happy Knitting!<br />
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<br />Spinnerettahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18335780710513434157noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2014582660745280934.post-26252825561805442762012-09-24T13:39:00.002-04:002012-09-24T13:39:43.473-04:00Free Pattern... err... Monday?OK so I did not forget last Friday... when I actually had some time. I just hadn't scanned in one yet for you! So I thought I would add it today, because <a href="http://zilredloh.com/2012/09/24/stitchcraft-freebie-scarlet-berry-jumper" target="_blank">Liz from Zilredloh</a> has kindly given me a shout-out today!<br />
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Today's offering, comes from a Bernat book from 1960. I discovered it hiding amongst some other vintage patterns, and fell immediately in love with the two cardigans on the front. Then I flipped it over and fell for the two on the back. And a number of the ones inside. 1960 is right on the edge of my favourite time period for vintage pieces, but these cardigans are all classics!<br />
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Even better, the cardigans are knitted at a larger tension/gauge than the other vintage patterns I have. I am giving you the one on the left today... a simple ribbed cardigan, knitted in a worsted weight yarn!<br />
Tension/Gauge is 9sts to 2 inches and 6 rows to 1 inch.<br />
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<a href="https://docs.google.com/open?id=0B0X9frqFuGGydl8zbjl1Y0I4bmc" target="_blank">Bernat 1960s Ribbed Cardigan</a>.<br />
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I personally bought the pattern for the cardigan on the right, and have plans to cast on for that after my 1950s pattern is done. Yes, it is taking forever LOL But the good news is that I am finally onto the sleeves! Everything else (including sewing, buttons and trim) is all done!<br />
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I'll be back later this week with a sewing update.Spinnerettahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18335780710513434157noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2014582660745280934.post-29845636989406606972012-08-24T11:55:00.004-04:002021-10-28T16:14:53.722-04:00Free Pattern Friday: Lacy BlouseIt has been a few weeks since I posted here- primarily because I am getting myself ready for a new homeschool year... which has involved planning, selecting books, changing the plans, changing the books... you get the idea :)<br />
If you are interested in homeschooling life, I occasionally update my homeschool blog- which you can see in the sidebar ---> over there :)<br />
As the weather cools, I am hoping to get back to knitting. It is an excellent craft to do while you are keeping your eagle eyes on children working. Or not working as the case may be!<br />
I actually have some vintage children's patterns if anyone is interested in me uploading those.<br />
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Anyway, even though the weather here has been <i>much</i> cooler recently, I thought I would upload a nice summery pattern :)<br />
This is a Bernat Handicrafter lace top, from sometime in the 1950s.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OLN_zE5jQzM/UDef2BjuzDI/AAAAAAAAD9A/YCmzZvM217E/s1600/IMG_0018.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OLN_zE5jQzM/UDef2BjuzDI/AAAAAAAAD9A/YCmzZvM217E/s320/IMG_0018.jpg" width="247" /></a></div>
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It is a 'relatively' simple arrowhead lace pattern, knitted at 13sts per 2 inches and 8 rows per inch over sizes US 1 and 5 needles (2.25mm and 3.75mm). I say relatively, because if you have lace experience, it is simple, and if you don't, you have that hurdle to overcome first ;)<br />
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Knitted with Bernat Miramar yarn, which is a fingering weight yarn and has a yardage of 155 yards per skein. At 6-7 skeins, that means 930-1085 yards of a fingering weight yarn, and with the lace pattern, I would not recommend going to a yarn any thicker than sport (that would be 3ply UK and Australian). That is probably pushing it, to be honest, but it might work :)<br />
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Knit picks palette yarn has a HUGE number of colours to choose from, and would work well if you can wear wool just fine :) If not, consider a baby yarn, or maybe an alpaca!<br /><br /><div><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0X9frqFuGGycjZvUHcwWm9ha1E/view?usp=sharing&resourcekey=0-TB8k-Tx0vrQnPst6IxcfeA" target="_blank">Download Link Here.</a><br />
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Don't forget to check out <a href="http://zilredloh.com/2012/08/24/striped-jumper/" target="_blank">Liz over at Zilredloh's</a> and <a href="http://subversivelesbiananarchicknitter.blogspot.com/2012/08/geoffrey-mens-diamond-patterned.html" target="_blank">Bex from Subversive Femme's</a> patterns!</div>Spinnerettahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18335780710513434157noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2014582660745280934.post-30796517311551979912012-07-20T09:39:00.002-04:002012-07-20T09:39:27.362-04:00Free Pattern Friday: The Loop Cable CardiganThis pattern comes to you from 1953. I have included the front page of the publication, complete with the notes from the original owner on it!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6yiy43fm8vU/UAlcEZgk1AI/AAAAAAAAD7o/PyrTcsZCILo/s1600/IMG_0011.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6yiy43fm8vU/UAlcEZgk1AI/AAAAAAAAD7o/PyrTcsZCILo/s320/IMG_0011.jpg" width="247" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pattern Cover</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hNPVyxd_M8U/UAlcGUPtQII/AAAAAAAAD7w/vwDZpYmtD9c/s1600/IMG_0008.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
I chose this one because 1. I think cardigans are very useful and 2. this one has a very interesting cable pattern on it.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hNPVyxd_M8U/UAlcGUPtQII/AAAAAAAAD7w/vwDZpYmtD9c/s1600/IMG_0008.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hNPVyxd_M8U/UAlcGUPtQII/AAAAAAAAD7w/vwDZpYmtD9c/s320/IMG_0008.jpg" width="247" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Loop Cable Cardigan</td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
It actually reminds me a little of the jumper I made. Quickly reading the instructions for the cable, I can honestly say it looks like a very interesting method :) I might try it with something else first (I have lots of things I need to make).</div>
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Another interesting thing is the brand on this pattern. I remember my mum looking at a lot of Jaeger patterns when I was little - because somewhere in the back of my mind I associated it with jaguars. </div>
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This pattern comes in small (12-14), medium (16) and large (18-20) . That corresponds with modern bust sizes, 30-32, 34 and 36-38.</div>
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It asks for a gauge/tension of 7 stitches and 7 rows to 1 inch. With a smaller needle you could get this with a sportweight yarn (DK), although it asks for a fingering yarn (4 ply).</div>
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So without further ado, here is the <a href="https://docs.google.com/open?id=0B0X9frqFuGGyakJZNkZwSG5CTHc" target="_blank">Loop Cable cardigan</a> pattern.Spinnerettahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18335780710513434157noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2014582660745280934.post-89042063702697646032012-07-13T16:19:00.001-04:002012-07-13T16:21:18.642-04:00Free Pattern Friday: 1952 Chevron TopI have long been a fan of Liz over at <a href="http://zilredloh.com/" target="_blank">Zilredloh</a>, who regularly posts free patterns on her blog. In fact, she and Bex from <a href="http://subversivelesbiananarchicknitter.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Subversive Femme</a> have both shared oodles of free patterns over the years.<br />
Wendy over at the <a href="http://thevintagepatternfiles.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Vintage Pattern Files</a> is linking up a lot of the free patterns out there.<br />
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Anyway, in honour of these very generous ladies, I thought I might share one or two of the patterns I have acquired over the years.<br />
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This is a pattern from a 1952 Bernat Handicrafter booklet. I am thinking it was a summer one, because it featured this rather lovely top.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vwopbcyJKGM/UACAVQYIzWI/AAAAAAAAD7Q/W5uMjEEU974/s1600/IMG_0025.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vwopbcyJKGM/UACAVQYIzWI/AAAAAAAAD7Q/W5uMjEEU974/s320/IMG_0025.jpg" width="247" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1952 Bernat Handicrafter Pattern</td></tr>
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I have a thing about chevrons, and this top, features a nice strong chevron pattern. This textured look is very nice, and I think rather slimming in its effect. It looks rather good with the circle skirt doesn't it?<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zGz0HELdOvg/UACBRt7t1aI/AAAAAAAAD7c/H_3tztONn8c/s1600/part.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zGz0HELdOvg/UACBRt7t1aI/AAAAAAAAD7c/H_3tztONn8c/s320/part.jpg" width="294" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Close up of chevron pattern.</td></tr>
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This could readily be made in a nice cotton, either fingering or sport weight- depending on needle size :)<br />
Those little pearl buttons make it look really classy, but I am sure you might try something different!<br />
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If you decide to make this, please, drop me a line and let me see the finished product!<br />
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<a href="https://docs.google.com/open?id=0B0X9frqFuGGyMGxxUmllSGVfdVk" target="_blank">1952 Chevron Top</a><br />
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You can download the pattern from this link here. It is a PDF file, so you will need a PDF reader like Adobe Acrobat. If you need a different format, just let me know!<br />
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Happy Knitting.Spinnerettahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18335780710513434157noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2014582660745280934.post-77985964944874648392012-07-10T09:44:00.004-04:002012-07-10T09:44:54.192-04:00Win a Knitting BookTasha from over at <a href="http://blog.bygumbygolly.com/" target="_blank">By Gum By Golly</a>, was featured on <a href="http://www.susancrawfordvintage.com/Home.html" target="_blank">Susan</a> <a href="http://justcallmeruby.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Crawford</a>'s blog tour and is <i><a href="http://blog.bygumbygolly.com/2012/07/coronation-knits-giveaway-interview.html" target="_blank">hosting a giveaway</a></i> for Susan's latest book, Coronation Knits.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/justcallmeruby/18123617/Photo2_medium2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/justcallmeruby/18123617/Photo2_medium2.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vintage Gifts to Knit: The Perfect Christmas Jumper- from Ravelry.com<br /><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/the-perfect-christmas-jumper">http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/the-perfect-christmas-jumper</a>
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<span style="background-color: white;">I have long been a fan of Susan's designs- which are all vintage inspired- or even in some cases, reworked vintage designs.</span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/justcallmeruby/107419198/44_Amies4_medium.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/justcallmeruby/107419198/44_Amies4_medium.jpg" width="226" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Coronation Knits: Amies - from Ravelry.com<br /><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/amies">http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/amies</a>
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</tbody></table>
<span style="background-color: white;">Personally, I would love to own these books. I really need to tell my family this so I can get them added to my birthday/Christmas list ;)</span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/justcallmeruby/107425405/73_Princess_Twinset_Jumper1_medium2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/justcallmeruby/107425405/73_Princess_Twinset_Jumper1_medium2.jpg" width="242" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Coronation Knits: Princess Twinset - from Ravelry.com<br /><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/princess-twinset-jumper">http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/princess-twinset-jumper</a>
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</tbody></table>
I have showcased my favourites from the book on this page, Tasha has a few more- and of course there are other fabulous patterns from Susan Crawford's designs on her Ravelry page.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/justcallmeruby/107416891/29_Lion_and_Unicorn1_medium2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/justcallmeruby/107416891/29_Lion_and_Unicorn1_medium2.jpg" width="242" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Coronation Knits: Lion and Unicorn - from Ravelry.com<br /><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/lion-and-unicorn">http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/lion-and-unicorn</a><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I have to say though, the Lion and Unicorn jumper is my favourite :) I would definitely cast on for this one!<br />
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Anyway, to read an interview from Susan or to enter to win the book, head on over to <a href="http://blog.bygumbygolly.com/2012/07/coronation-knits-giveaway-interview.html" target="_blank">Tasha's blog today</a> :) You have until Friday 13th July!Spinnerettahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18335780710513434157noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2014582660745280934.post-27093167767224115602012-07-05T17:06:00.000-04:002012-07-05T17:12:12.510-04:00My 1930's 4th July OutfitJoining in with the other ladies of <a href="http://www.elizabethfoss.com/reallearning/2012/07/with-needle-and-thread-and-a-giveaway.html" target="_blank">Elizabeth's Needle and ThREAD</a> :)<br />
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<a _mce_href="http://www.elizabethfoss.com/reallearning/need.html" href="http://www.elizabethfoss.com/reallearning/with-needle-and-thread/"><img _mce_src="http://www.elizabethfoss.com/.a/6a00d8341c543553ef016764e5b4ba970b-pi" alt="needle and thREAD" border="0" height="200" src="http://www.elizabethfoss.com/.a/6a00d8341c543553ef016764e5b4ba970b-pi" width="200" /></a>
</div>
OK so you can see my book in yesterday's post... I just finished it, and frankly, I was disappointed. The ending of the book raised some questions and laid in a setup for a new storyline. I think I might have to read the other books for best effect ;) <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zyDgv3w80Dg/T_X_fySXw_I/AAAAAAAAD68/gf-EAymFU1k/s1600/IMG_0441.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zyDgv3w80Dg/T_X_fySXw_I/AAAAAAAAD68/gf-EAymFU1k/s320/IMG_0441.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I was SO HOT! It was in the upper 90s* at this point, and although my dress is lovely and cool cotton, I was STILL hot. But then, that is not a change from the last couple of weeks.<br />
I have a lovely 1940s hairstyle (courtesy of <a href="http://vixenvintage.blogspot.com/2012/07/1940s-hairstyle-and-pin-curler-review.html" target="_blank">Solanah's tutorial</a>) and a 1960s basket bag. The hat and shoes are modern LOL but suit the era. The dress is from a 1930's pattern, Simplicity 2788.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EQZPO_INCq8/T_YA1HqtPrI/AAAAAAAAD7E/GAK8F3Rwg3I/s1600/1930-simplicity2788.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EQZPO_INCq8/T_YA1HqtPrI/AAAAAAAAD7E/GAK8F3Rwg3I/s320/1930-simplicity2788.JPG" width="222" /></a></div>
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I made view 1 (left), and just for your information, I later upgraded my belt with a vintage dark red buckle I bought in an antique shop. It looked much better once I did!<br />
I had originally planned to add rickrack (as shown on the envelope) but I could not find it in either burgundy or cream (the colours of my dress). I ended up using a cream coloured trim.<br />
However, my dress received lots of compliments throughout the day, as did my hat ;) And I was happy! This has been sitting in my UFO basket for ages, so now it has been moved, I am content!Spinnerettahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18335780710513434157noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2014582660745280934.post-26395505543533479862012-07-03T18:19:00.001-04:002012-07-05T17:06:41.270-04:00Catherine Wheels and Book ReviewsIt seems appropriate that THIS week being 4th July- a big fireworks festival here in the USA- I am making something with the same name as a firework :) <br />
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This blanket, which is crocheted, is made in the Catherine Wheel or Bavarian Crochet pattern.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zDc4bRe4wzw/T_NoQ6k-8aI/AAAAAAAAD6o/0NjO8BEJR6g/s1600/IMG_0424.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zDc4bRe4wzw/T_NoQ6k-8aI/AAAAAAAAD6o/0NjO8BEJR6g/s320/IMG_0424.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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The only problem is here that the camera and computer screen conspire to distort the colour of this blanket- which I am attempting to make look like <a href="http://032ad8a.netsolhost.com/madmad/2012/02/04/bavarian-crochet-blanket/#.T2E_LsU7h5Z" target="_blank">this one here</a>. I loved the rainbow of colours, and the fact that this uses up stash yarn so quickly. In fact, I actually had to buy three balls of yarn to make my rainbow- 1 because I did not have the colour and 2 because I actually RAN OUT of colour!<br />
This is already the size of a decent lap blanket, but since my husband has declared he likes the blanket, it shall be for him- which means full size!<br />
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As for the book- it is the latest Sookie Stackhouse novel from Charlaine Harris. I have been reading these books for years now- about 9 in fact! I discovered them when they were still in the mystery genre, and have thoroughly enjoyed them ever since.<br />
That being said, I have a few books I have read this summer I *did* want to mention (in case you are still looking for something to read!).<br />
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You saw the other day when I mentioned the <b>Cottage at Glass Beach by Heather Barbieri</b>. I loved this read. It is slightly paranormal... but not quite in the paranormal genre. If you like Sarah Addison Allen, you'll enjoy this book too.<br />
When Nora's husband is caught cheating on her, she moves herself and their two girls to the town of her birth, on a small island in Maine. Here she tries to come to terms with her marriage and decide its future, and at the same time she is trying to find out a little more about her mother, whose mysterious death precipitated her father removing her from the island at a very young age. With a mysterious fisherman who is washed up by a storm, an aunt who is hiding something and locals of all flavours, it is up to Nora to make some very hard decisions.<br />
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<b>Fair Game by Patricia Briggs. </b> This is the continuation of a series- the Alpha and the Omega. It is a paranormal series I enjoy, and in fact the author has a second series (Mercy Thompson) set in the same world. If you enjoy paranormal/Urban fantasy series, you'll enjoy this one. When Charles, who is acting as the enforcer for the Marrock, starts acting oddly, he is sent to Boston with wife Anna to take his mind off of things. There, they must uncover a serial killer, who appears to have targeted Werewolves. When Charles' guilt starts affecting his relationship with Anna, they must find a way to fix it, because her life might depend on it.<br />
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<b>The Merchant's House by Kate Ellis.</b> This is the first in a detective series starring Detective Wesley Peterson. This series features a detective whose hobby is archaeology. It is set in South-Western England, and is rather enjoyable. Wesley has just moved to town when a local archaeological dig unearths a skeleton, and a young lady is discovered dead on the cliffs. As he investigates, the parallels between the two cases strike a chord, and one might hold the answer to the other.<br />
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<b>The Prophet by Amanda Stevens</b>. This is the second in the Graveyard Queen series, which is about Amelia Grey, graveyard restorer, who can see ghosts. This series sticks the paranormal stuff firmly in the evil column, and is more in the nature of mystery/thriller type reading. If you get spooked reading, you might want to avoid it, but I love the series.<br />
Amelia has left Charleston for a job in a remote town in North Carolina. When she arrives, the town seems to be full of ghosts, and not just the literal ones. As Amelia gets into the restoration of the small town cemetary, she starts to uncover the town's secrets... and the secrets of her own, personal history. As she does, her life becomes threatened by some unknown danger.<br />
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<b>Juliet by Anne Fortier</b>. What if Juliet of Romeo and Juliet really existed? And what if she were a twin and what if there were descendants? This story (which is fiction) is based off of the tale made famous by Shakespeare. It switches between the modern story of Julie Jacobs and that of the original Romeo and Juliet. Julie's Aunt Rose just died, leaving behind instructions on how to find out her mysterious past in Italy. When Julie gets there, she doesn't find what she expects to find, but is also thrust into danger because of the things her mother hid, things that prove the story of Romeo and Juliet was real, and involving the curse that has affected the families involved ever since.<br />
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These are not all the books I have read recently- just the ones I really liked and wanted to recommend ;) Happy reading!<br />
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<a href="http://www.gsheller.com/tag/yarn-along" target="_blank">Yarning along with Ginny</a>.<br />
<br />Spinnerettahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18335780710513434157noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2014582660745280934.post-25984946465112743572012-06-12T20:50:00.002-04:002012-06-12T20:50:30.234-04:00A Jumper from 1941Well not quite. It is actually a pattern from 1941, which I found in a local antique shop and proceeded to make. The pattern is a repeating cable which alternates across the whole thing. It has little puff sleeves, and a fairly high crew neck.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a7XcxKFk0qQ/T9fg0BblCEI/AAAAAAAAD6Q/NHNLVuFb4WQ/s1600/IMG_0420.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a7XcxKFk0qQ/T9fg0BblCEI/AAAAAAAAD6Q/NHNLVuFb4WQ/s320/IMG_0420.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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You have seen this jumper in progress before ;) I think if you click on it you can see the pattern in much better detail.<br />
The yarn is a cheap acrylic because I was experimenting :) 1. I have to have something that will not irritate my neck (wool does, as I have found to my cost :(), and 2. I wanted to check what type of yarn I could use. I discovered that a sportweight yarn is very consistent with the 4ply used back in 1940s America (it is an American pattern), and will get me 7sts per inch on a no. 4 (US) needle (I think that is a 3.25mm).<br />
I did one thing special to the sweater, and that was how I bound off the collar. I used the <a href="http://knitty.com/ISSUEfall09/FEATjssbo.php" target="_blank">Jeny's Surprisingly Stretchy Bind Off</a>. It was wonderful for a collar- no getting my big head caught in the opening ;)<br />
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And because I am thinking about adding this to the Yarn Along (click <a href="http://www.gsheller.com/tag/yarn-along" target="_blank">here to see others</a>), you can see my current read, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/The-Cottage-Glass-Beach-Novel/dp/0062107968/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1339548002&sr=8-1&keywords=the+cottage+at+glass+beach" target="_blank">The Cottage at Glass Beach by Heather Barbieri</a>. I love her books. They are well written and fun to read. I highly recommend them, especially for summer reading.<br />
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<br />Spinnerettahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18335780710513434157noreply@blogger.com24