Real Life: Live & Unscripted

Four dresses...

Up first we have Simplicity 2187. While I loved wearing this, next time I'm going to wear it with a wide leather belt instead of this fabric belt and see if I like the way it looks on me. I THOUGHT I did, but seeing it now, uhhhhhhhhhhhh it doesn't look all that flattering. My boobs look huge and I look huge but uhhh ok. Only posting it because I made it and I love my fabric lol.

McCall's 5893. I love this pattern. Seriously. It's quick and easy and gets great results everytime. I bought this one again and one of the last sales because my original pattern is worn out and torn lol.

McCalls 6308. This one was super quick and easy. I wanted something simple (without making the above dress AGAIN lol) to showcase this gorgeous fabric I picked up a few months ago! I think this one did the job lol.

Alright, that's it on the sewing front for right now. I'm so inspired to sew for fall but it's too hot!! lol

Toodles!

Vogue 8648

 

Vogue 8648

 

 

Pattern Description: Lined dresses A, B, C, D, E, F, fitted through bust, mid-knee, have princess seams, bias midriff and back zipper. A, B, C: bias sides, straight skirt with back slit. B: contrast sides and midriff. D, E, F: bias side bodice, circular skirt, narrow hem. E: contrast bodice. C, F: above elbow sleeves.

Pattern Sizing:14-22


Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?
Yes
Were the instructions easy to follow? Very easy

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? Loved the style


Fabric Used: Cotton Sateen with lycra


Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: I didn't line this dress. I also didn't add a zipper. My fabric had SO much stretch to it that when I added the zipper it almost looked like it was trying to "ruffle up" if that makes sense. So I took it out and basted it closed to see if I could get away without putting the zipper in. I didn't need it AT all. I was able to pull it over my head with no problem. I also added two inches to it. Without that it would have been too short for my taste. It hits right below my knee.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I might make another view of this for the fall, I really wanted to showcase this gorgeous fabric. I highly recommend it if you like this style.

Conclusion: Great pattern, very easy to make.

Butterick 5490

Butterick 5490

Pattern Description: Fitted, pleated dresses A, B, above mid-knee or evening length, have lined bodice and midriff, flared skirt and back zipper.

Pattern Sizing: 8-14


Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

YES!
Were the instructions easy to follow? Very easy. I think I only glanced at them when I started.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I loved all the pleats!


Fabric Used: Cotton


Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: I made it a little longer than the short version. I think I added two inches.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I doubt if I will sew this again, but if you like this style I do recommend it.

Conclusion: Great patter. Another simple summer dress.

Here are some additional pictures:

Ugh, I need a new dressform lol. Don't laugh at her. She has some issues lol

I love the pleats!

Funny thing about that zipper. I ALWAYS keep zippers here. ALWAYS, and uhhh well I didn't have a white one long enough so I used  a black one. Great thing about invisible zippers....you can't see anything except the tab...IF you put it in right lol. Mine was in the right way lol

I kept my accessories simple since my necklace was bold.

Having fun with the director of photography Jaelyn lol

Y'all have a good one!

 

McCall's 6204

                                    
                                                            McCall's 6204

Pattern Description: Loose fitting, pullover tunics A, B have extended shoulders and stitched hems; tunic A has short sleeves on right side, left side drapes, angled hem, optional purchased jewel appliques, wrong side of fabric shows; tunic B has shirt tail hem, purchased jewel stones.

I made view A.

 
Pattern Sizing: 8-16


Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

YES!
Were the instructions easy to follow? Didn't even use them.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I never noticed this pattern until Erica B made it. I fell in love instantly lol. I LOVE everything about this pattern.


Fabric Used: Some type of sheer mystery knit lol. I loved the colors in it and had to have it.


Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: I made it a little longer so I can wear it belted.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I don't know if I'll make it again but I'm going to hang on to this pattern JUST in case. I highly recommend it.

Conclusion: Great pattern! Very simple.

Here are a couple more pics:

Just a pic of it without my belt on.

I fell in love with this belt a few months ago.It was featured here:

HAD TO HAVE IT lol.

The skirt I'm wearing is McCall's 5523 view A.

I won't review it again, I made view B here. This is QUICKLY becoming my favorite skirt lol.

That's it. More reviews later this week lol.

I'm thankful for my mojo y'all lol.

Butterick 5652

 

Butterick 5652

 

 

Pattern Description: Misses' Top, Dress, Caftan, Jumpsuit and Pants

Pattern Sizing: XSM- MED


Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

YES!
Were the instructions easy to follow? I didn't even use the instructions lol

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I loved the style and how easy it was lol. I'm ALL about the simple stuff right now lol.


Fabric Used: Challis


Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: I made it shorter than the original version.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I do plan to make it again. It was SUPER easy and really comfy!

Conclusion: Great pattern. Looks WAYYY better than the pattern envelope lol

McCall's 6348

My sewing mojo is BACK!! I've made like 3 dresses, a tunic and a skirt lol. More reviews to come lol  *please excuse my extra puffy hair, humidity ain't NO JOKE lol*

 

McCall's 6348

 

Pattern Description: Misses Dress

Pattern Sizing: 12-18


Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

YES! Even the same color.
Were the instructions easy to follow? SUPER easy.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I loved the simplicity of this dress.


Fabric Used: Ponte Roma. I'm in LOVE with this stuff.


Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: None

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I WILL be making this again in black. I always say that lol, but this will be a perfect LBD.

Conclusion: SUPERB pattern. Very simple and I love it.

Here are a couple additional pictures:

A back view.

I wore it with a cardigan to church. What this made me realize is that this cardigan makes me look so "Susy Homemaker" lol. I'm going to make a "jazzy" cardigan. That would have really taken it up a level lol. *point noted* lol

Alright, back to the sewing machine I go!!! I did make a vest which was the WRONG thing to start with seeing as how I haven't sewn since MOTHER'S DAY lol. So the things I've been making are just simple things. Like REAL simple. Works for me lol.

 

Butterick 5495

Butterick 5495

I took this pic the other day but I made this a couple weeks ago.  I'm in need of basic tops without them being tshirts soooooo, look out for more cute throw on tops lol.

Pattern Description: Loose-fitting tops A, B, C, D with front drape gathered into loop, dropped shoulder, seam details and stitched hems. A, B: sleeveless. C, D: short or long kimono type sleeves.

Pattern Sizing: 8-14


Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

YES!
Were the instructions easy to follow? Very easy

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I've seen this top in various department stores and I wanted one lol. This pattern was an exact replica.

Fabric Used: Matte Jersey


Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: I didn't hem the sleeves. I just made sure they were cut even.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I will make this one again in a couple different colors.

Conclusion: Great not so basic top.

**This has been in my drafts forever** Oops, I forgot lol.

Vogue 1245

 

When I saw this article I knew I picked the right color for my top!

 

 

Vogue 1245

Pattern Description: Loose-fitting top has elasticized neck and shoulders. A: Drawstring waist, elasticized sleeve. B: Elasticized waist.

I made view B.

 
Pattern Sizing: XS-M I made the medium.


Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

YES!
Were the instructions easy to follow? SUPER easy.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I loved that they included the directions for french seams. If you don't know how to do them, this is a great project to learn!


Fabric Used: Modal Jesery


Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: I decided not to add the elastic at the waist. I'm going to belt it anyway and I just figured IMO that was a wasted step lol.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I MIGHT make this again in black. I don't have many black tops and this might be a good one.

Conclusion: Really really simple pattern that looks great IMO.

 Here are some additional pictures:

 I wanted to take a pic that was similar to the pattern envelope. I'll be wearing this top to church so it won't be off my shoulders. Now when I wear it somewhere else I WILL wear it like this lol.

This clutch is Vogue 8527 but I'll talk about that in another post.

I thought these earrings and ring were cute :)

For the love of all things, I fell in love with these shoes. I was torn between getting the red or the gold, I think the gold was a superb choice lol. You can't go wrong with a metallic!

 

McCall's 5972

Yall have Toy to thank for this post because I did NOT feel like doing it lol.

McCall's 5972

I wasn't sure about the print on this dress AND the ruffles (thought it might be too busy, even though it was my first choice lol) until Toy pointed me in the direction of Jason Wu Spring 2011 Collection.

I was IN LOVE and I'm now HOOKED on the style.com app lol. I have all KINDS of inspiration now.

Anyway, back to the review.

These were the ones I loved:

I figured hey, if HE can do it. I KNOWWWWWWWWWW I can pull inspiration from this runway and make it wearable for me lol.

Pattern Description: Fitted dresses A, B, C with lined bodice, darts, neckline variations, waistline seam, back slit opening, side zipper closing and above mid-knee length; purchased belt or ribbon and flower pin.

I made view C. I made view A last year. You can see that here.

 
Pattern Sizing: 14-20


Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

YES!
Were the instructions easy to follow? Very easy.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I loved the pattern.


Fabric Used: Poly chiffon.


Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: The pattern doesn't call for a lining on the dress so I had to underline the poly because it was so sheer. I used a lightweight ivory cotton poplin. I did notice that even after understitching the neck, it would roll. I don't know why though. Can anyone help me understand what I did wrong? Thanks!

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I HIGHLY doubt I will sew this view again, but I love view A for my TNT shift dress. It was VERY easy, but because of my fabric, it took FOREVER to sew.

Conclusion: Great pattern and I'm in LOVE with my dress.

Here are some additional pictures:

Back View

The Ruffles

This is the bottom ruffle. I LOVE the pleats. I wish it was pleated like this on the top also.

I did a rolled hem on ALL the ruffles. I promise it took me 3 days to do this. Time consuming but SO worth it.

Side Zipper

Back vent

I LOVE this dress and I'll treasure it for years to come. LOVE It!

Ok, up next some tops I've made and haven't posted lol.

Vogue 1250

 

Vogue 1250

 

I have been wanting this color fabric FOREVER! I finally got it a month or so ago and couldn't wait for the perfect pattern to surface! I was looking in the April InStyle and fell in LOVE with all the colors!!! I tore this page out first:

I couldn't decide what shoes to wear with them and Toy reminded me of this page:

DUH!! Nude! LOL I've been wanting to wear these for a while now. PERFECT oppoturnity! LOL

Pattern Description: Close-fitting dress.

Pattern Sizing: 14-20


Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

YES!
Were the instructions easy to follow? SUPER DUPER EASY.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I loved how simple it was.


Fabric Used: Modal Knit Jersey


Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: I added 2 inches to the length.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I am SO making this again in black. This will be a GREAT Little black dress!!!

Conclusion: This was such an easy pattern! It took me no time to make it. I hate that it doesn't have the finished measurements on the pattern pieces, but I just did my regular size and was fine. Because it was such a close fitting dress, I made it just a tad bit longer than the original. not much though. I like the way it came out. I think this might be my most favorite dress I've sewn this year!!!

Additional pics:

Y'all know I have to get my sparkly in some where lol

I *heart* my pink bag and I will probably take pics with it until I'm tired of it or get another bag that I love more lol. 


You know, its ALL about the shoes! LOL

Special shout out to the photographer I trained:

Love you boo! lol

 

McCall's 6319

Pattern Description: Fitted dress with tapered skirt has lined bodice and elasticized waist

Pattern Sizing: 14-22


Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

YES!
Were the instructions easy to follow? SUPER EASY!!!

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I loved this pattern.


Fabric Used: Knit


Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: I added about 2 inches to the length

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I won't sew this one again but I do recommend it.

Conclusion: Great quick and easy pattern. Just what I needed lol.

Additional Pics:

Shoulder Pleats

Lined Inside

Skirt pleats. I took this photo before I pulled my extra thread out lol. Oops lol

McCall's 5850

Pattern Description: Lined dresses are 4" above knee and have back zipper closure; package features interchangeable components to create your own design; choices include three bodices, two midriffs, gathered skirt, bubble skirt, bubble skirt with hem band and optional bows;

Pattern Sizing: 4-10


Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

YES!
Were the instructions easy to follow? Super easy. I went through and marked the sections I needed because they jumped around a bit.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? Loved it.


Fabric Used: Cotton Viole


Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: None

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I would make this is Jaelyn wanted it again. I do recommend it. Even with the boining and it being lined, it went together very easy and it didn't take much time.

Conclusion: Great pattern and my daughter loved it!

I will have to get another picture of her in it lol. We were rushing and she wasn't finished dressing lol.

 

Butterick 5464

Butterick 5464

Pattern Description: Loose-fitting blouses A, B, C, D have front band with button closing, purchased bias faced armholes and stitched hems. A, B: sleeveless with collar band. A: neck ruffle. B, D: front neck flounce (wrong side of fabric will show). C, D: collar and collar band, tiered caps sleeves. D: contrast flounce and sleeves.

Pattern Sizing: 14-20


Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

YES!
Were the instructions easy to follow? SUPER easy.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? This pattern was very close to my inspiration pattern.


High Neck Ruffle Top

Fabric Used: Cotton Voile


Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: I added a ruffle to the collar.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I want to make this blouse again. I LOVE it!!! I highly recommend this blouse.

Conclusion: Great patter!!! Very well drafted. A great addition to my wardrobe.

Here are some additional pictures:

 

 

I went with clear buttons because it was hard to match the pink.

I did a rolled hem on all the edges. Took FOREVER, but it was totally worth it.

To make the ruffle, I cut one strip on the fold that was twice the length of the collar and gathered it up so it would fit. I LOVED the outcome. I felt extra girly in this blouse. I LOVE it.

Vogue 8413

  Vogue 8413

Pattern Description: Close-fitting dress have bodice, sleeve and collar variation, straight skirt with front pleats, back darts, zipper and vent. A, B: cowl neckline. B: three-quarter length roll-up sleeves and carriers with purchased belt. C, D, E, F: princess seams. C, D: one piece collar. E, F: gathered collar, lapping ends in front. F: three-quarter sleeve length with casing and elastic. All view lengths are mid-knee.

I made view A 
Pattern Sizing: 8-16


Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

YES!
Were the instructions easy to follow? SUPER Easy. I made this dress in one sitting. Because I hate to hem, I did it the next day.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? Nothing, It's fabulous.


Fabric Used: Ponte roma Knit


Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: I didn't add a zipper.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I might make another view. I love this pattern. It is very well drafted and went together well.

Conclusion: If you are like me and you've had this pattern in your stash FOREVER, take it out and make it up lol. You will be glad you did lol.

Here are some additional pictures:

My dress form is so broke down lol. I can't wait to get a new one lol

I cheated with the hem and used stitch witchery. LOL, I HATE to hem lol.

The caridgan I made from a mans t-shirt. I could NOT find what I was looking for RTW, so I whipped this one up really quick. It still wasn't exactly what I wanted but it worked.

Just a regular mans tshirt...

I tried it on, then had Tony pin it where I told him. I just basically tapered the sleeve.

oops, upside down. I cut it right below the pins then cut it for length.

Cut it down the middle...

Added bias tape to each front edge section, sewed it down, then folded it over and sewed that side down.

 And there ya have it. This was NOT my original idea. I saw it on a blog somewhere. When I find the link again I'll link y'all.

Have a good one!

Toodles!

Butterick 5316

 I was checking my emails last week when I got to the one from Nordstrom's. Now I don't always look at these. If I'm in the mood, I'll open them, but other times I just delete it lol.

I'm SO glad I didn't delete this one lol.

Eliza J Belted Cotton Party Dress $138.00

 

 

Pattern Description: Lined, fitted dresses A, B, above mid-knee length, have darted bodice and skirt front pleats, side pockets, back zipper and hemline slit, topstitch trim. A: cap sleeves.

Pattern Sizing: 14-20


Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

YES!
Were the instructions easy to follow? I don't think I used them.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? This pattern was similar to my inspiration dress.


Fabric Used: Cotton poplin.


Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: I didn't line it and I didn't add the pockets.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? Once is enough for this dress. I do highly recommend it though.

Conclusion: Great simple dress. Just what I needed to showcase my fabric!

Here are some additional pictures:

I don't know what it was about this dress that made me think of my fabric but it did. I'm happy with  my choice either way lol.

I didn't line it, I used bias tape to finish the neckline and armholes.

Just a snap of the front pleats.

Paired with a cardigan. Told y'all I'm totally addicted to them. I'm going to try not to wear one with EVERYTHING lol.

Butterick 5321

Yesterday I was talking back and forth with Toy and she sent me a picture of this dress, she hated it lol:

Banana Republic Petite V-Neck Sheath Dress

I fell in love with the dress. I hated the breast pleats. Like they look terrible. Sooooo I remembered a pattern I've had FOREVER!!

Butterick 5321

Please excuse the crooked picture, my tripod is broken and I didn't know it :(

 

Pattern Description: Lined dresses B, C have front pleats, back darts and back zipper. B, C: length is 2" above mid-knee.

Pattern Sizing: 8-14


Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

YES!
Were the instructions easy to follow? Super easy

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I loved how this dress was very similar to my inspiration dress. I read a lot of the other reviews about it being too big, I did NOT have that problem with this dress.


Fabric Used: Black and white pin stripe poplin


Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: I didn't line it. My poplin was heavy enough that I didn't think it needed it. I just folded the edges and sewed them down.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I doubt if I make this one again, but I truly love it. If you like this style and if you can find it grab it, it's OOP.

Conclusion: Great simple dress.

Here are some additional pictures:

It's hard to see the back darts because of the fabric...and the wrinkles lol

Front pleats....

I wore it last night with a cardigan. Now I'm on a huge cardigan kick lol. Im going shopping in a few minutes for a few other colors lol.

Simplicity 2253

  Simplicity 2253

Pattern Description:

Misses' evening dress in two lengths by Jessica McClintock.

Pattern Sizing:
12-20.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

YES!
Were the instructions easy to follow?

The directions were fine. There was a previous review here that talked about how the directions jumped all over the place, so I knew to look for it. I'm glad lol, or I would have been upset lol.
What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?
The shoulder treatment attracted me to the pattern the first day I saw it!

Fabric Used: Linen


Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: None really. I didn't like the way the pleats on the shoulder looked when following the directions so I just pleated it the way I wanted to.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I won't sew this one again at all. I only need one of these in my wardrobe.

Conclusion: Great dress. Hubby loved it and that made it a winner! LOL

Here are some additional pics:

I hate that you really can't see the lines in this dress when you are wearing it. Maybe it was my fabric choice.

The lines in the back are straight across.

The inside bodice is lined. I ran out of fabric (because this was for something else lol) and used white linen lol.

I *love* the shoulder.

Oh and a shoe pic lol.

(don't know why my polish looks bad. It doesn't look like that right now **looks down at toes**)

I took this for someone who wanted a closeup lol. These were SUPPOSED to be my bday shoes, but I ended up wearing something else lol. Glad to break them in tonight lol

There ya have it! Good to have a successful project after one that failed lol.

Vogue 1218

  Vogue 1218

Pattern Description: Close-fitting, tapered, above mid-knee, unlined dress has shaped seams, scoop front and back neckline, front pleats with wired ribbon, back invisible zipper and back vent.

Pattern Sizing: 12-18. Based on my meaurements I made the 14 but I think I could have gone down a size.


Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?  Yes


Were the instructions easy to follow? The directions were ok. I got confused on one part. When you are ready to attach the neck facing to the dress it says to pin the facing to the dress wrong sides together. Now maybe it's because you are supposed to use two way stretch knits only and maybe it won't fray, but I thought this was wrong. I didn't use a knit. I used Sew Classic Suitings from Joanns and it's 81% Poly, 15% Rayon and 4% spandex so it had more than enough stretch to it.

I didn't realize the guide sheet wasn't going to tell me how to finish off the neckline until I was doing the armhole. It was at that point I stopped and read through all the directions and saw that they didn't include directions for that. Now I'm still a beginner so maybe they assumed I was supposed to know how to finish it off? I ended up just serging the edges so it wouldn't ravel and folding it and sewing it under.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? The pattern envelope picture isn't accurate. Or maybe it's just me. This dress is WAY low. Like, when I put it on it fit well, I made the size based on my meaurements and it was so low you could see my bra. VERY Low.


Fabric Used: Sew Classic Suitings from Joanns and it's 81% Poly, 15% Rayon and 4% spandex


Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: None

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I am going to make this dress again. This version is a muslin by default lol. It won't get worn anywhere. I love the style and fit.  Next time I make it, I'm going to shorten the side front and side back piece. I THINK That is what I need to do to make it not so low. I'll make a muslin of the top part of the dress before I cut my fabric lol.

Conclusion: This is a beautiful dress. I learned a lot while making it. It was my first time working with wired ribbon in a dress and it's given me a couple ideas for future projects.

Here are a couple other pictures:

I love how the neckline is formed. If you click the pic, you can see how the inside facing isn't finished. 

I loved all the top stitching.

McCall's 6035 and Vogue 8603

McCall's 6035

 

 I'm not going to review the skirt again. I've made it soooo many times lol.

 

Pattern Description: Shirts A, B, C, D have princess seams and button closure; dress A has collar band and short sleeves with cuffs; dresses B, C, D have collar, collar band and below elbow length sleeves; dress B has sleeves with cuffs; dress C has sleeves with turn back cuffs with tabs; dress D has sleeves with drawstrings; separate pattern pieces provided for A/B, C, D cup sizes.

Pattern Sizing: 14-20 I made the 14


Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

YES!
Were the instructions easy to follow? SUPER easy!!!

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I love that this top had cup sizes!! LOVE LOVE LOVE!


Fabric Used: Challis


Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: None

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I plan on making this one several times over.I Highly recommend it.

Conclusion: This was a great great great pattern to work with!

Here are some additional pictures:

Kwik Sew 3542

(I don't know WHY Kayla doesn't like to smile, I think she is a happy child lol)

Kwik Sew 3542

Pattern Description: Girls' tunic and dress have empire waist on front with inset, V-neckline with neckband that overlaps, and ties in side seams that tie in back. Neckband, inset and ties are from contrast fabric. View A tunic has dolman sleeves. View B dress has extended shoulders forming cap sleeves, and bottom edge extension from contrast fabric.

Pattern Sizing: XS-XL I made the XL


Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

YES!
Were the instructions easy to follow? Yes, very easy.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? Kayla wanted a simple dress and this is teh one she picked out.


Fabric Used: Rayon Jersey


Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: I had to really add length to this. I think I added 5 inches to the dress and I made the contrast band on the bottom about 4 inches longer than the pattern. Had I followed the pattern, it would have been WAY too short and YES I'm sure I cut out the dress and not the top lol.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? If Kayla wants this one again I'll sew it for her, other than that once is enough. I highly recommend it.

Conclusion:  Kwik Sew patterns are really really great and well worth the money. Love them.

McCall's 5523

McCall's 5523

(I ended up tucking my shirt in, so I didn't wear it like that all day)

Pattern Description: Straight skirt, mid-knee length, has side zipper and faced waistline; skirt A has shaped lower back flounce; skirt B has pleated lower back; skirt C has gathered lower back with self-fabric ruffle; skirt D has two lower back flounces.

Pattern Sizing: 12-18 I cut the 12


Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

YES!
Were the instructions easy to follow? Yes

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I loved the back variations of the skirt.


Fabric Used: Stretch twill sateen lol.


Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: none.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I HIGHLY recommend this pattern. I know I'll be making it again.

Conclusion:Great wardrobe builder. I love this skirt.

Here are some additional pictures:

McCall's 6292

 

Pattern Description: Waist length, lined to edge jackets A, B, C have princess seams, shaped yokes and sleeves with elbow dart in two lengths; jacket A have three-quarter length sleeves; jacket B has contrast yokes and three-quarter length sleeves; jacket C has long sleeves and purchased piping.

Pattern Sizing: 14-20 I cut the 14


Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

YES!
Were the instructions easy to follow? The directions were SUPERB. I did get confused once, but it was my half reading the directions lol.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I LOVED this jacket.


Fabric Used: Sateen stretch twill, but it didn't have a lot of shine to it. Not sure how else to describe it.


Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: None

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I HIGHLY recommend this jacket. I want to make it again in white for the spring.

Conclusion: Great, great jacket!

Here are some additional pictures:

I got lazy and didn't line the sleeves. I still love it lol. 

McCall's 5848

McCall's 5848

Pattern Description: loose fitting, flared, lined dress above mid knee

Pattern Sizing: 4-10 I cut the 6


Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

YES!
Were the instructions easy to follow? I didn't use them.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? Jaelyn loved the style of this dress.


Fabric Used: Vera Wang Cotton


Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: Jaelyn didn't like the collar and decided that she wanted a bow on the side lol.

So I basically made a long sash and finished all the edges, I put the dress on her and pinned the new collar to the dress and made sure it was placed correctly.

That was pretty much it. She loved it.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I doubt if she wants this one again, but if she does I'll make it for her. I think it's OOP because I couldn't find it on the website.

Conclusion: Cute and easy dress for my daughter.

Vogue 8663

Vogue 8663

 **This is the LAST of the cruise clothing lol, thanks for taking time out to look at all the things I made**

Pattern Description: Dresses A, B have fitted, pleated bodice, front neckline finished with bias tape, back zipper, flared skirt and stitched hems. A: armholes finished with bias tape. B: three-quarter length sleeves and purchased belt.

Pattern Sizing: 14-22


Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

YES!
Were the instructions easy to follow? I only glanced over them. Seemed straight forward enough lol.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?


Fabric Used: ITY Jersey


Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: I omitted the zipper. I hardly ever use a zipper in a knit.Here are a closeup of the neckline:

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I doubt if I will sew this one again, but I do recommend it.

Conclusion: Great dress.

Simplicity 2865

 Simplicity 2865

Pattern Description: Womens knit dresses.

Pattern Sizing: 12-20 I cut the 14


Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

YES!
Were the instructions easy to follow? Yes

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I loved the racer back.


Fabric Used: Cotton Interlock


Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: I shortened it by 5 inches. It was way too long and made me look frumpy. I shorted it to right above my knee. I also didn't like the curved hem and made a straight hem instead. 

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I doubt if I sew this one again but I do recommend it.

Conclusion: Great, comfy dress.

Kwik Sew 3064

Kwik Sew 3064

Pattern Description: The Misses' swimsuits have a low cut back and all outside edges are finished with elastic.

Pattern Sizing: XS-XL I made the Large


Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

YES!
Were the instructions easy to follow? I didn't use them.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? It's a basic swimsuit pattern. I love it's simplicity.


Fabric Used: Swimwear. Spandex Lycra


Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: The first time I made the the straps were too long, so I just shortened them about an inch and a half.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? This will always be my go to basic swimsuit pattern. I HIGHLY recommend it.

Conclusion: If you are in the market for a basic swimsuit, I HIGHLY recommend KS patterns. The instructions are really good.

Here are some additional pictures

Vogue 2481

                                                                    Vogue 2481
 
Pattern Description: Close-fitting, boned, lined, straight dress, below mid-knee or evening-length, has pleated left side and right side zipper/slit.

Pattern Sizing: 14-16 I made the 14


Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

YES!
Were the instructions easy to follow? They were VERY easy!!!

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I loved how the foundation piece was constructed. I've worked with boning before but it was done in the seams. This was sewn directly to the interfaced lining.


Fabric Used: Silk Dupoini


Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: None

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I HIGHLY recommend this dress if you like this style. I wanted something other than just a plain strapless dress. The side pleats attracted me to it. I will need to get another picture in this dress and take some detail shots. I really, really love it.

 

Here is a picture of the pleats:

 

Conclusion: Great dress!!

McCall's 6083

McCall's 6083

Pattern Description: Jumpsuits A, B, C, D, E have side front pockets, elastic casings and stitched hem; jumpsuit B has shoulder straps; jumpsuit C has sash; jumpsuits D, E have bodice with gathered shoulders, narrow hemmed armholes; jumpsuits A, D are thigh length; jumpsuit B above ankle length; jumpsuits C, E are floor length; optional purchased belt.

I made view C
Pattern Sizing:4-12 I cut the 12


Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

YES!
Were the instructions easy to follow? I didn't even use them.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I've loved jumpsuits for a while and just really wanted to make my own.


Fabric Used: It's a mystery lol. I'm not sure of the content but it's some type of crinkly poly blend. Here is a better picture of the fabric...

It has really great weight to it.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: None

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I am SO making this again for the summer. I already have the perfect fabric picked out.

Conclusion: Great pattern!! If this is your style I highly recommend it.

Simplicity 3803

Simplicity 3803
 

 

Pattern Description: Misses Dresses

Pattern Sizing: 4-12 I cut the 12


Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

YES!
Were the instructions easy to follow? I've made this dress so many times, I don't even use them.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I love this style maxi dress.


Fabric Used: White gauze


Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: The skirt is underlined.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I HIGHLY recommend this pattern. It is my favorite maxi dress pattern. I think I've made it 4 or 5 times.

Conclusion:I really wanted something long and flowy and this pattern and fabric really fit the bill.

McCall's 6109

McCall's 6109

Pattern Description: MISSES' DRESSES: Above, mid-knee length sleeveless dresses A, B, C with midriff and pocket variations dresses A, C have contrast pockets; dress A has contrast midriff.

I made view A

Pattern Sizing: 4-12 I cut the 12


Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

YES!
Were the instructions easy to follow? I didn't even need them.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?  I love all things cowl neck lol, so this one was right up my alley.


Fabric Used: Rayon Jersey


Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: I omitted the pockets.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I doubt if I make this one again, but I do recommend it.

Conclusion: Great pattern.

Vogue 8184

Vogue 8184

It's time to start reviewing my cruise wardrobe. I went with all dresses again because they are just easy. I wasn't doing many shore excursions and the ones I did do were in the water lol.

Pattern Description: Dress has fitted bodice with princess seams, back zipper, bodice self-lining with boning and skirt variations. A, B, C: 2" below knee length with slightly flared skirt. A: strapless with self tie belt and purchased trim. B: shoulder straps and purchased trim. C: self band and shoulder strap. D, E, F: mid-knee length with straight skirt, front and back darts and back slit. D: strapless with ribbon trim and bows. E: shoulder strap and purchased belt. F: self band and shoulder straps.

I made view A

Pattern Sizing: 12-16 I cut the 14.


Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

YES!
Were the instructions easy to follow? I didn't have to follow them.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I love how the foundation is built. I used to be afraid of boning but this dress makes it so easy.


Fabric Used: Stretch Cotton From Fishmans In Chicago. I think that's the name of the store. It's around the corner from Vogue Fabrics lol.


Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: None

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I've made this one before, you can see it here. This is my favorite strapless dress pattern and I plan on making this one again.

Conclusion: This is such a classic dress. I love it. I'm going to buy it again before it goes OOP lol.