Thursday, April 11, 2019

Breaking the Pattern- Review

I was excited to see a new sewing book at my local library last week. Without much thought I checked it out. The book is 'Breaking the Pattern' by Saara and Laura Huhta. It retails for $35.
There are 20 projects in the book plus endless ideas on breaking the patterns. All the patterns are included with the book and there is also an option to print the patterns. Also included is a section of pattern alteration, measuring and sizing and fabric selection - the usual information you would expect to find in a sewing book. 

I made project one - The Nummi Bag. this is the only non-clothing pattern and possibly the easiest make in the book.Each project increases in skill level, therefore starting at the beginning is advisable for a beginner.

Making this bag introduces the maker to four different seams- plain, French, flat felled and bias bound seams. Instructions are clear and easy to follow and are accompanied with illustrations.
I did not read any tips on how to deal with thick seams- however there should have been  some mention  in regards to this because by the end of the project the side French seams together with the flat felled seam at the corners  gets very thick -especially when using denim. but then i admit to not having read the book cover to cover.
i added a patch pocket to the interior and a D-ring tab to attach my keys to. i expect to use this bag at the beach or pool in the coming months.

Wednesday, January 2, 2019

Happy New Year!

I very much neglected this blog last year. But I feel I am not the only one, many of the blogs I follow are rarely updated. It is a shame because I enjoy reading them and I am grateful for the ones that  are regularly updated. My favourite  Handmade by Carolyn.
Anyways moving on to my latest make. Its the Erin Skirt by Lisa Comfort (instructions and pattern from issue 22 and 23 of Simply Sewing). I started the skirt in November and its been sitting on my sewing table for a while waiting for buttons. This morning with the children back at school. I put on some music (Savage Garden) and got to work.
The fabric is a stretch navy blue corduroy (98% cotton). The buttons are spectrum cool size 1 1/8 in (28mm).
Its the third time making this pattern. I have enjoyed wearing my first skirt very much but I feel that its a little short in length. (it may have shrunk) so this time I added an extra 2 inches in length. This is the only adjustment I made to the pattern.




Breaking the Pattern- Review

I was excited to see a new sewing book at my local library last week. Without much thought I checked it out. The book is 'Breaking ...