In 2013 I was encouraged to teach myself to sew. I made a few small projects (napkins, pouches) then decided to try a Burda style pattern for a zippered skirt. I was scared of the zipper insertion so closed it with buttons down the back, which I thought was pretty cute. But when it came to seam finishes, the self-taught sewist in me really came out! I thought that “finish your seams” meant to backstitch so that your threads don’t come undone. Needless to say, I didn’t finish my seams at all! I have never washed the skirt. But still have it, worn a few times over leggings.
While making this skirt I vowed never to sew from an official pattern again. So many tears!
Fast forward to 2021. I had a number of projects under my belt (2 baby quilts, many zippered pouches, pillow covers, pillow cases, purses, wallets) and had a strong urge to try again at a garment pattern. I chose the simple Cielo Dress by Closet Core for its beautiful simplicity. I used birthday money to buy some gorgeous linen from Simplififabric. This is where I fell in LOVE with garment sewing, although the fit in the shoulders made me cry, and the hem is all wonky, I was SO PROUD. I spent the rest of 2021 garment sewing (even sewing some Barbie clothes for my nieces).
To mark one year in garment sewing, I chose to make another birthday dress. The pattern is Cardamone by Deer and Doe in a navy chambray and I think I nailed it! I am AMAZED at my boldness and increase in confidence. This make is a bit nostalgic, as I recall my mom wearing a denim button up dress when I was young and thought it was so tacky! But now recall it fondly. While making it, I remembered a denim colored dress I used to own as a 6 year old, that had a neon pink belt. As a tribute to where I’ve come from, I bought neon pink velvet buttons for my Cardamone, but they were slightly too large so I opted for these white ones seen in my profile picture. The shirring, the button plackets, the collar and the changes I made for a better fit are all symbols to me of where I can go, if only I try.
“Look at me! Look at me! Look at me NOW! It is fun to have fun but you have to know how.”
– The Cat in the Hat, by Dr. Seuss
I continue to sew in that gap of time when my youngest is napping and my oldest is at school, or when both are in bed at night. Mostly I’m sewing garments for myself, sometimes I’m mending knee holes or other threadbare places. I’ve also made a couple baby quilts, and a fitted vinyl tablecloth. If I see a need, I find a way to cover it in fabric.
I hope you enjoy the projects and tips that I’m excited to share with you!