Reversible Shoulder Bag - Updates

UPDATE: links updated to function properly

INTRODUCING:
Reversible Shoulder Bag Size Small

I've had a few inquiries regarding my free Reversible Shoulder Bag pattern that I been meaning to respond to. First, a while back, a request was made for a small version of the pattern. This pattern scales proportionally and I've made a small version a few times (pictured). It fits nicely under the arm and carries only the essentials. A light-weight cotton version also packs well for travel. The small version is approximately 17 inches high and 11 inches wide before sewing. Click here to download a tiled pdf pattern. If you want to make your own pattern, use the diagram for the large size and scale is proportionally. The diagram can be found on page 3 of the pdf instructions.


Also there was a request for a full-size pdf of the pattern (not tiled) for printing on a large format printer. Click here to download the large size and here for the small. The large size document is 19 inches wide and 29 inches high. I'll also add links to the sidebar.

On another side note, I've had a couple of inquiries from people asking if they can use the pattern I created to make bags for sale. While I do provide the pattern for free download and personal use, I don't authorize it's use for profit. This is standard protocol for patterns and copyright. An exception is the fabulous BurdaStyle.com which allows the use of their patterns for profit. Their patterns are open source and copyright free (explanation here). If you need a pattern for bags to make for sale, check out these BurdaStyle patterns: the Diana, the Charlie.

The alternative is to create your own patterns. You are welcome to use my pattern as inspiration, and make changes to create your own design. It's really hard to say no to requests, but I don't feel comfortable authorizing unlimited use of my pattern for others' profit. Making patterns can take some practice and always takes multiple tries to get right. The more sewing you do, the easier it will be to create your own patterns. Just don't be afraid. Give it a try and embrace your own creativity.

Please continue to download the pattern and make the Reversible Shoulder Bag for personal use. I love to hear from you and I love to see photos too. Don't forget, you can upload photos to the Flickr group too.

McCalls M5621, View C

Another dress finished a while back. I found the fabric at the thrift store a while back and fell for the pattern. I used McCalls pattern M5621, view C. I made the pattern once before, using View A.
I had more trouble this time with the neckline. Perhaps better marking, would have made the process easier. Otherwise, it was an easy dress. There's no zipper but the fit is loose and goes easily over the head.
I'm a little disappointed that the neckline isn't perfect. It's not a big deal but I'm considering trying to fix it at some point. I'd recommend the pattern if you want a loose fit and don't mind a challenge. Also, watch the length. It was a bit short for me but might be ok for the average height.

ing costume

The last couple weeks have been a whirlwind of costume making. My brother and his friend Max have a band called ing. Yesterday they performed at LACMA (LA County Museum of Art) for a project put on by the gallery Machine Project. The museum was taken over by many artists, musicians and performers with art installations, music, classes and more. ing took on the feat of performing for seven hours while walking around the museum without stopping. They did this while dressed as an alien, which is where I became involved.

A couple weeks ago we met to discuss what kind of costume they wanted. We decided on a pair of smocks connected by a tube between their chests and hood/masks covering their faces. Every part of their bodies was covered by the costume. In addition, the smocks had to transport all of their musical instruments.
We journeyed to the fashion district of LA and picked out this metallic hologram fabric.
From there my work began.
Many hours and a few late nights later, the costume was complete and the band was dressed and ready to perform. The official description of their performance:

ing
Slow Walking Color Takers
Two travelers from another dimension are transported to LACMA in search of vibrant color combinations. Upon discovery, specific colors elicit mysterious sounds from the alien tourists.

The whole day was amazing. I loved seeing people react to their performance. Reactions varied from joy and wonderment to confusion and fear. It was awesome and exhausting. There are more pictures in my flickr stream (slideshow here).

Mini Kasia Skirt

This skirt is a mini variation on the Kasia skirt pattern from BurdaStyle. I made this skirt once before, without making any changes. Since the first skirt I made was a little too tight, I made this a little larger. I also eliminated the waistband, using bias tape to finish the waistband and shortened the length.

I used a lining fabric for the front flap/pocket and probably should have added some interfacing. The buttons seem a little loose in the buttonholes. I bought the fabric at the thrift store and had very little to work with. I threw caution to the wind and cut a few pieces on the horizontal grain (as you may be able to see in the photo above). It came together pretty quickly and overall I'm pleased with the result. I'm excited for autumn and this skirt will fit in with my fall wardrobe.

Fabric Destiny

I love this fabric and I can't decide what to do with it! I think fabric has a destiny, a certain thing it is meant to be. I'm undecided about this piece and troubled by how little of it I possess. I only have about 1 1/4 yards of this fabric (60 inches wide) plus a little extra (not the full width). I want to make a blouse (I'm dreaming about a bow neck blouse) but isn't it strange that so many blouse patterns require so much yardage? The fabric is medium weight, probably synthetic and well suited for a blouse. I considered making a dress like this but I'm worried that the print wouldn't work and that the fabric should be darker in color for that style. Does anyone have a suggestion? A pattern or an idea? Much thanks!

Reversible Shoulder Bag - En Espanol!

I have some good news for any spanish readers out there who would like to make my Reversible Shoulder Bag pattern. Celes from Tejidos de Celes has posted spanish language instructions on her blog for the pattern (click here to view her post). I am thrilled that Celes has shared her skills with everyone! She has made a lovely pdf of the translated instructions for you to download. Despite a year of college spanish, my spanish skills are pretty poor but the translated instructions appear clearly organized and easy to follow. Thank you Celes!

Inspired by Celes, I've started making another shoulder bag myself. I cut out the fabric months ago and now I'm embroidering birds on it (before stitching it together). The embroidery pattern is from the book Sublime Stitching by Jenny Hart. Check out SublimeStitching.com for patterns and supplies. I love the vintage, not cheesy look of the designs.

I have a lot more sewing projects to share and I hope I get around to it soon!

Navy Pleated Neck Dress - Simplicity 2892

I've been doing lots of sewing and a little knitting the last few weeks but very little internetting, something I'll try to work on. I finished this dress a while back (it's already been worn and washed multiple times). I found some cotton navy fabric in my stash that I had completely forgotten about. I think I bought the fabric in a very sane moment, realizing that solid colors will be worn more often than prints, even if they are less beguiling. Upon finding the fabric, I decided to make a simple dress using Simplicity 2892. You may notice that the pattern is for a top, not a dress. I used view C, lengthened the body, eliminated the band at the waist, added pockets and a tie belt. I also took in the shoulders, so that they ended before the shoulder. The pattern was easy to make, the only hang ups being my additions. It's very easy to wear and I'd likely make the it again.

Plaid Ruby Shorts

I made these shorts using the BurdaStyle Ruby pattern. I lengthened the leg and the crotch. The leg could probably be shorter but I'm happy with the length. I've only made shorts once before and that pair had a zipper fly. I remember it being a really quick and easy project. These shorts were neither quick nor easy. First of all there are so many details including buttonholes, pockets and a decorative belt and then I had to go and choose a plaid fabric. Choosing a plaid fabric and actually caring about matching the lines made it ten times more challenging. I'm really getting tired of matching plaids and plan to avoid them for the time being.

I pulled it all off to my satisfaction but not without some frustration and seam ripping. Once again, I had a few problems following the BurdaStyle directions. I ended up mostly looking at the pictures and and going it alone. However, I did find a really good tutorial for bound pockets on the BurdaStyle website.

I found some white, vintage plastic buttons in my stash to pull it all together. I'm pleased with the result and very glad to be finished. To be positive, the shorts were a good learning experience of techniques. The next time I attempt a bound pocket or buttonhole, I'll be prepared! Shorts season is nearly over so I need to put them to use soon!

Checked Marie Skirt

I recently finished this voluminous skirt, using the BurdaStyle pattern Marie. The pattern fits this fall season's sculptural trend, especially when using heavy fabrics like this one. I found the fabric at a thrift store and used an underlining to prevent itchiness. The fit is pretty loose and, be forewarned, does nothing to decrease the appearance of the hips. The hem circumference is narrow and constrains walking a bit. It was pretty easy to put together although I had some problems understanding the directions. I would make this skirt again. I'd like to try a short party version.

Sunhat

I finally used the book Lotta Jansdotter's Simple Sewing that I received for Christmas last year. It's a beautiful book and the weather is perfect for a sunhat. I used scraps of IKEA fabric leftover from a framing project.

The pattern was fairly easy to follow. The top stitching does take some time. I recommend having something entertaining to listen to. My only issue is the fit. There's only one size of the pattern and it appears my head runs a little small. The hat comes down and almost covers my eyes. I love the big brim and it's great for sitting and reading but definitely not a driving hat and walking should be done with caution. But, it's cute and the proportions are a little dramatic, in the "it's impossible to make eye contact with others" kind of way. If I went to the beach I would definitely bring it along.

Gathered Sleeve Dress - Simplicity 2863

Here's another dress I finished a few weeks ago. The fabric is from one of my favorite thrift stores in Oregon. It probably cost $2-3. You can see in the photo below, it's a synthetic knit, I'm guessing from the 80s. I used the Built By You for Simplicity pattern 2863. I made view A with some modifications. Due to fabric limitations, I cut the sleeves separately from the body. I made the seam allowances on the front of the arm into casings and threaded a fabric tube through the casing, making a gathered sleeve that echoes the gathering at the waist.

Otherwise I followed the pattern as designed. The fit is good except sometimes the high neck bothered me (an itchy thing). It was pretty easy to put together and I might even make it again in a different fabric.

Maxi Dress - McCalls M5624

I know, it's been a while since I posted. I had to get my camera fixed and I fell out of the habit but I've been doing lots of sewing so I have a lot to show and I hope to be doing it regularly. I finished this dress a few weeks ago. I bought the fabric at JoAnns early in the summer and actually used it with the pattern I had intended to use - McCalls M5624. I made view B for length and the contrasting midriff from view A. I also added a contrasting band at the hem. For a true maxi dress, it could probably be even longer. I think I made the length given in the pattern but I'm tall, so of course it doesn't hit the floor, which would be distracting anyway. I think I did lengthen the front bodice, which I usually do for under bust seams. I'm satisfied with the fit. It would be a slimmer look if it was tighter at the midriff but would also be less comfortable so I'm not going to change it.

The one big change I made was the shoulders. I skipped the braided strap and extended the pattern to the shoulder for both the front and back. I then made pleats at the front shoulder to fit the back. It's a low back so check to make sure you like the depth before cutting. It's a nice summer dress that I really should wear again before fall comes.

Long Knitted Vest

I finished a number of projects this weekend so with any luck I'll have some regular posts this week. First up is a long knitted vest from Vogue Knitting Spring/Summer 2008. This knitting project came together relatively quickly for a large project. I mentioned it last month when I began the project.

Not unusual for me, I did not use the recommended yarn. I used an Italian merino wool in a similar weight, called Dive Zenith. Throwing caution to the wind, I also didn't block my swatch. It turned out just fine but a knitter should not be so foolish. The stitch pattern is beautiful and keeps the mind occupied while knitting. To see close-up photos of the stitch pattern, visit the blog of the designer, Simona Merchant-Dest. The stitch pattern becomes particularly striking after blocking.I had no problems with the pattern and quite like the result despite the serious, slightly frightened expression on my face. I imagine the expression is a bit how I looked during the earthquake this morning. It was my first real earthquake and I was shaken (pun unintentional) by the event. There was no damage except for the rug burn I got on my knee when I dove under my desk. The more experienced Californians just rode it out. Quite an exciting day.

I lost my ruffles!!!

Don't hate me. I made a pretty drastic change to the ruffled dress I asked for advice on (and for which I received lovely comments and great advice). I think you will be understanding. I was having some trouble completing the dress because frankly it was not terribly flattering. That many ruffles on my top heavy frame was a silly idea. Something had to be done.

I removed all the ruffles.

Well, I kept a few for the one pocket, centered directly on the side seam.
So that I can wear the dress backwards or forwards.

I think I like it better backwards! (Note to self: make more low-back clothes.) My only hesitation is the candy-striper feel of it. I spent so much time doing those ruffles, cutting bias strips, hemming and gathering. But they had to go and I'm okay with that. I am sort of embarrassed however that I shared the dress, received very lovely comments (thank you!) and then completely changed it. Anyone need some slightly used ruffles?

Fabric Scraps

I've been doing a really good job of starting projects this weekend but not such a good job of finishing. While starting one of these projects, I needed to find the remnants of a particular fabric.
It wasn't easy to find in this mess but I finally did find the fabric I was looking for. In the process, I got kind of freaked out about all of these scraps I've been hanging on to for years. They take up so much room and I probably wouldn't miss them if I got rid of them. But maybe I would... What do you do with your fabric scraps?

Many ruffles summer dress

Oh my, it's been a whole month since I posted a single thing! Don't fret. I'm still crafting. I just haven't finished anything (not even the wedding-intended dress).
One of my current works in progress is this ruffled and striped sun dress. I'm using the shirt pattern McCalls M5388. I've used this pattern twice before, but never with the ruffles. I also added a lining this time because the fabric is a little sheer.
All I have left to do are a few finishing elements. I've lost some momentum though. I can't really decide what to do next. I'm thinking I'd like pockets and a thin tie/belt held in place with carriers. I had originally considered adding a ruffle to the hem but now I think that will be overkill. Any thoughts? Ideas for fancy pocket details? Thanks in advance and happy summertime!!!

Balcony Garden

I've slowly been working on my little balcony garden. This weekend I planted a bunch of new things. I'm so excited to see it start growing.

tomatoes, lavender, geranium and hopefully some basil

a quickly growing succulent

nasturiums, a slightly sickly mini-rose, and hopefully an avocado

my favorite hanging basket

I've also been working on a little cable knitting (a long vest from Vogue knitting), baking gluten-free Ranger cookies and cutting out my wrap dress. I have barely enough fabric for the dress but I think it's going to work. More to come soon...

Wrap Shirt

I finished this wrap shirt last weekend. I used Simplicity Pattern 3877. The pattern is actually for a dress with a faux-wrap front and a full skirt with godets. I wanted to test out the pattern on the bias so I made a shirt by cutting out the pieces for the bodice. I used the same fabric I used for the Kasia Skirt. Matching the stripes was a bit of a mind puzzler. The layout and cutting probably took as much time as the sewing.

To alter the pattern to make a shirt, I added a peplum around the bottom for an actual wrap style. To make the peplum, I overlapped the skirt pieces and traced them to get one pattern piece for the front and one for the back. I then cut two pieces for the front and one for the back. The fit could be a little better in the front but I'm pleased overall. The pattern has different sizes according to cup size and I think going between sizes would fit me a little better.

The shirt is a muslin for a dress I started thinking about a long time ago. I may finally be ready to make it. First, I bought this fabric from the thrift store.
Then I saw this dress in a J.Crew catalog. The fabric is almost the same as what I bought. The dress stuck in my mind. Miraculously, I found the clipping. I remembered it somewhat differently. It's neither bias cut nor a wrap style. The neck is not a style I would wear but it does have some nice ruffles.Perhaps I was actually remembering this Jovovich-Hawk/Target dress. Dots instead of stripes but it has the wrap and ruffles. Again, the straps are more bare than I would usually wear though. (Do you think the model looks like Jewel?)

Finally, I saw the Portico wrap dress wrap dress currently on the J.Crew website. Portico wrap dress from J.Crew

That's what I had in mind all this time. It's the perfect combo of all of my inspirations. The first dress has the fabric and the feeling I want. The second has the neckline ruffles and the wrap front. The last one has cute cap sleeves, neck ruffles, a waistband and a lovely bow. Now that the muslin is done, making this dress is finally getting closer to fruition.

I'm going to a wedding next month and I need to find something to wear. I'll either do this dress or try something with McCalls pattern M5619. I'm having trouble deciding what I want to do. Of course, I could always wear one of the many, many dresses in my closet, some never worn, but it's always so nice to have something special and new for a big event. Don't you think?

Vintage Patterns and Notions

It's really been much longer than I intended between posts. It's not that I haven't been crafting I think I've just been trying to spend less time on the computer. I spend all day on it and even now my eyes are tired. I spent Memorial Day weekend mostly in town but did venture to Santa Barbara for a day trip to visit my great-aunt. She had more goodies for me, pictured here. I couldn't resist these boxes of ribbons, button makers and patterns. I've never seen button makers like those. They use two pieces of fabric, one ball in the center and a ring around it.


Vintage patterns are so inspirational! Do you have a favorite vintage pattern or something you're searching for?