Sew how? Kristin's done it in 13 months! (The show-off.) January 10, 2011 14:39 8 Comments

Kristin of k-line has only been sewing thirteen months (OK, a few days more, but, really, just a very few!) and she makes her own bras. Wow! I bow down in deference and respect, woman. That is totally impressive. So. If you want to find out more about how this paragon learned to sew, read on. 

How long have you been sewing?

I've been sewing for almost 13 months. I started on Nov. 1, 2009

What inspired you to learn?

I've always wanted to sew, but my husband finally couldn't stand to hear me natter on about it any longer. When we were at Walmart (not somewhere we go regularly), we found ourselves in the sewing machine aisle. He proceeded to buy me my machine and a bunch of accoutrements. All the while I kept telling him to stop, that I'd never be able to figure out how to operate machinery!

Did your mother or grandmother sew?

No and no — but my great aunt was an accomplished dressmaker. She designed and produced garments for Lord & Taylor in NY in the 1940s-60s. She used to make me gorgeous, couture doll clothes. I so wished I had saved them.

How did you learn? A class? Your mom? Home Ec?

Well, I guess my husband taught me. But he was learning at the same time. We read the manuals (mostly him) and the pattern instructions. He understands schematics, so he wasn't intimidated. But he did think the instructions were remarkably complicated. I never took a Home Ec class. They didn't offer it at my school. I have taken a class, but it was after I had learned for a few weeks, and I knew all of the intro stuff that was being explained. I should say that I had some excellent help from blog friends like Mardel from Resting Motion :-). People went above and beyond to help me to decipher instructions.

What was the first garment that you made?

An A-line miniskirt in denim!

Did you wear it?

Hell yes. I've worn it a few times. But I'm afraid to wash it. It's not exactly sturdy. :-)

How long did it take for you to get the basics down?

It's hard to answer this question. The very initial basics came in about a month (four projects). The broader basics took about 6 months. But I was sewing a lot. Some of it was not v. successful, though all resulted in good learning.

How long did it take you to feel confident of your dressmaking skills?

This one's also a bit challenging to answer. I feel confident about all the things I've done in the past that worked out well (or from which I learned how to do it differently the next time). Some things — that I either haven't encountered or that haven't gone well — still freak me out.

Do you still make things that you simply won't wear?

Yes. I give them away.

How many hours a week do you sew?

I sew about 20 hours a week. Most of that time is on the weekend, though I do my shopping, cutting, tracing and planning during the weekdays.

What are your five favorite sewing books?

You ask all the hard questions, Denise! I really love everything by Claire Schaeffer. Her Couture Sewing Techniques is great. The Fabric Sewing Guide is also awesome on so many levels — just in terms of telling you about fabric and how to use it and care for it. Tailoring: The Classic Guide to Sewing the Perfect Jacketby the Editors of Creative Publishing is very good. If you want to tailor, this is a must-read. I really enjoyed the three Wendy Mullin books, specifically her most recent one: Built by Wendy Dresses: The Sew U Guide To Making A Girl's Best Frock. It includes some very basic drafting/design information, and it's very intelligently written for potentially newbie, but creative, sewists. The Dressmaker's Technique Bible by Lorna Knight is a great flip resource. It's got good instructions, excellent photos, it's well laid out in a spiral bound book which isn't large. Oh, and one cannot forget Fit for Real People by Palmer/Pletsch. What a life changer that book is. But SO seriously hideous to look at. Someone should force those authors to bring the design into this century.

Are there any sewing DVDs that you like? If so, which ones?

I'm not so into the DVDs, but I have watched Full Busted? (also by Palmer/Pletsch) on a number of occasions. It's useful in nailing down the various versions of an FBA.

If you're a fan of free online tutorials, name five for the beginning sewer, please.

I do use a lot of free online tutorials which I've bookmarked.  They're numerous and not so difficult to find. I will say that there are some masters of the art. Gertie and her New Blog For Better Sewing offers up tremendous learning opportunities, especially in the form of sew-alongs. Tasia of Sewaholic is terrific. She too will be having a sew-along starting in January. Patty of Patty the Snug Bug has done some awesome instruction on the Full Bust Adjustment. No doubt I'm forgetting some fantastic tutorial creators.

What garment would you suggest that a newbie make first?

A simple skirt. It's got enough wearability to make it exciting, but it's not too complex. Mind you, for a person who's sewn nothing, its more than complex enough!

Second?

My second item was a simple cowl-neck top (with the cowl cut onto the front piece). That meant I got to enjoy the drape of the cowl without the extra step of sewing it on. I love cowls and it gave me a full outfit, along with the skirt. So I'd go with a top next. But you know, some people like starting with scarves and pencil cases. Objects with fewer curves.

What is the favorite of all the garments you have made?

Oh, I have quite a few that I really appreciate. What comes to mind: The vintage inspired Vogue 8640, which I made in navy wool. Vogue 8123, also vintage inspired, which I made in a light cocoa felted wool. The collars on these just thrill me. I've made some chic skirts which I get a lot of use out of. Vogue 8413 is a terrific pattern (six dresses, all quite different) with a beautiful cowl draped front. I LOVE it and it's very flattering on my shape. Vogue 1170, a Donna Karan sack dress, is very flattering. And yes, it's another cowl. (I think I have to branch out, people.) Vogue 8634 is my current go-to top (you guessed it, a cowl). It's got raglan sleeves, it's so flattering, and it takes 3 hours to make on a serger. I realize that all of these are Vogue patterns. I also really like Colette patterns, and I've enjoyed Hot Patterns, too.

What was the first item you sewed that made you beam with pride?

The very first skirt thrilled me to bits. I couldn't believe I'd made something from scratch. But V8123 was the first thing I made that a) looked really good, b) looked really good on me, and c) was well-constructed.

Name your five top tips for beginners, please.

1. Practice, practice, practice. When you're not sewing, read blogs and books and watch tutorials. Immerse yourself.

2. Push yourself. Make something that frightens you. You'll be amazed by what you can accomplish.

3. Create a dedicated space (however small) and keep it very tidy. Come up with a system for everything from the get-go. Then you won't ever become disorganized (which is just a distraction).

4. Read sewing blogs and, if you've got the drive, start your own blog (if you don't already have one). This will help to keep you focused and will give you a community of practice from which to draw on — and which you can give back to.

5. Join an online sew-along.

What's the last garment that you made and are you pleased with it?

V8634, my fourth one, a modified version of the three pattern options (longer length hem, three-quarter  length sleeves). I am pleased, but, weirdly, I cut the knit against the grain of stretch. It was an accident, and I've never done that before. It's pretty close to too-small. Mind you I have a slim tween daughter and a slim friend who can both benefit if I choose to regift. (On my daughter, it will be a loose tunic.) The pattern itself is drafted very large, so even mis-cut in a small, I can likely still get away with it. That's a good feature in a pattern.

Have you sewn with unprinted vintage patterns? If so, please share pointers for newbies who might want to try them.

No, I haven't, and they fascinate and scare me! I definitely want to hear more about these from the other sewists who take this survey.

How long does it take to get to the Vogue "Plus Difficile" rated pattern?  (I can dream, can't I?)

I can dream, too! You know, I've heard this about Vogue — and I'm inclined to think it's true: They rate the patterns largely by number of pieces and number of steps. So a pattern that you might find quite straightforward can be rated very difficult. I think it depends, also, on one's comfort level with the techniques we think of as difficult. Tailoring is labor-intensive, but it's not actually difficult. But, would I have tried tailoring on my own (if I hadn't been able to rely on Gertie's Lady Grey Coat sew-along)? I think it would have taken a while.

Share with me your funniest sewing adventure, please.

My first skirt covered all the bases — but my husband and I, even as we toiled into the night (all night) on our 1-hour skirt pattern — managed to keep a sense of humor. There was a lot of laughing and threatening to throw the sewing machine in the garbage.

And your most exasperating or difficult.

Truly, there are too many to name. If I were capricious, I would have quit sewing LONG ago, because it can be project after project of intense difficulty, especially as one is learning. For me, so relatively new to the game, every single project involves something new. New can be tricky and tiring and unpleasant. However, as I go on, I do find fewer things that are totally out of the ballpark. So the projects tend to be less intense. Well, except for that coat I just made.

What's your favorite pattern ever to sew?

I really can't say for sure. There's been a lot of fun in a lot of patterns. I guess I'll go with the Colette patterns Sencha blouse.

It's beautiful to sew. And it's not so complicated that a relatively new sewist can't give it a go. Mind you, I think it takes more general knowledge than the average newbie is likely to have. I'd suggest it no sooner than fourth or fifth garment project.

Do you sew vintage patterns?

I've sewn with reissued vintage patterns. Nothing that's actually from, say, 1950. I don't really have the money to prioritize on these amazing pieces of history, given that I'm still really on a learning curve, and there are a lot of modern patterns with vintage elements that are less risky to try out. Of course, as I get better (less hit and miss) I will buy vintage patterns. Complicated things you can't find everywhere — coats or tailored suits, for example. And I'll definitely trace them!

How many hours of sewing do you think it takes for the average person to become proficient?

Well, Victoria of Ten Thousand Hours of Sewing blog posits it's 10,000 hours. That's Malcolm Gladwell's (Outliers) perspective. I've been sewing a conservative average of 80 hours a month for 13 months. That gives me a few more than 1000 hours of experience, and I feel I am an adequate sewist. If you give me a pattern and instructions, I will figure it out (though depending on the complexity, I may have a dicey result or the process of getting from fabric to finished garment may be very painful!).

What can take a sewist a very long time, especially depending on the shape of his or her body and how well (s)he understands it three-dimensionally, is making clothes that fit perfectly. That's an entirely different art form. That's dressmaking or tailoring, not simply sewing. I'm going to estimate that it takes about 2000 hours to become competent at that. Some people have very challenging shapes (i.e. lots of alterations and adjustments are required) and others don't have a great eye. So if you fall into those categories, maybe it would take 3000 hours. It's well worth the effort, though. Once you can do that, you can do anything.

Sewing really is an art form. I truly believe one gets back what one puts in (unless one is extremely talented, in which case the world's her oyster). If you want to be good, I suspect you have to think about it all the time — at least for a couple of years. What I can tell you is that, by nature, I have very minimal 2D-to-3D spatial reasoning skills. I've spent the last year developing those, and I've come a tremendously far way. It's like my brain has learned another language. I LOVE that I have taught myself to do this. The moral for me: Don't let weaknesses fool you into thinking you can't get good. Rise to the challenge, and you will achieve amazing things.

How about that hubby? Is he a keeper or what? Hubbies out there, take a lesson. OK?

Time is running out. Really. Don't miss our end-of-year sale! January 5, 2011 16:49 2 Comments

Time's a wasting, girls and boys. The Blue Gardenia's annual end-of-year sale ends in just over 24 hours. Don't miss it. OK?

So. Here's the fine print: Buy three items, get 33% off. Yes, ma'am. Yes, sir. Any three items. Any at all. Mix and match jewelry and patterns to your heart's desire. And there is no limit. Buy 10 items. Buy 100. Buy more. That, my pals, would make me really happy. Ecstatic, in fact. Really. For this fantabulous sale, American Express, Discover, Mastercard, Visa or Paypal sales only.

And now, I am off to bed. I am. But y'all stay up and shop. That's an order. (Albeit a gentle one.)

Sew how? The divine Ms. B. started her sewing trek in Home Ec. January 2, 2011 11:34 10 Comments

It's a new year. It's a new day. And it's time for a brand-spankin' new series. (For Sewing Spaces fans: New post coming up this week. I promise.) I'm interviewing sewistas/dressmakers/sewists/seamstresses/your favorite noun here to find out how they learned to sew. And, yes, I do have a selfish motive: I need inspiration. I do.

So. First up: dazzling Erica B. of the always interesting blog, Erica B.'s D.I.Y. Style!

How long have you been sewing?

Decades!  Seriously, almost 30 years! 

What inspired you to learn?

I don't really remember.  It's been a long time.  I would assume because everyone around me did.

Did your mother or grandmother sew?

My mother and my aunts, all of the time.  They both could look at something and draft a pattern on newspaper!  My grandmother sewed too, but not often.  She was a career woman!  I can only remember her seeing her do alterations (hemming drapes, or clothing).

How did you learn? A class? Your mom? Home ec?

I was always basically self-taught.  I received a Holly Hobby sewing machine as a Christmas gift when I was around 8 or 9.  I would make doll clothes from fabric scraps.  I later took Home Economics in 8th grade.

What was the first garment that you made?

I made a summer outfit as a project for Home Economics.  It was a top and shorts.  We had to complete our outfit and model it in a fashion show for our parents. 

Did you wear it?

I did!  I was so proud of myself.

How long did it take for you to get the basics down?

I would assume years.  I never sewed consistently until I was married with kids.

How long did it take you to feel confident of your dressmaking skills?

Confident?  That's funny.  Probably in the last couple of years.  My confidence is being about to turn something I've made inside out.  If the inside looks as good as the outside, it's a winner!

Do you still make things that you simply won't wear?

Of course.  Sometimes I'll make things simply to try out different techniques.  For example, I made Vogue 8156.  They are a pair of Claire Shaeffer couture pants.  The techniques were incredible, and I learned a lot that I've applied over the years to different projects.  But the pants were awful!

How many hours a week do you sew?

Not nearly enough! 

What are your five favorite sewing books?

The Complete Photo Guide to Sewing, Singer

Fit For Real People, Pati Palmer & Marta Alto

Couture Sewing Techniques, Claire B. Shaeffer

Tailoring: The Classic Guide to Sewing the Perfect Jacket, Creative Publishing

and every single copy of Threads.

Are there any sewing DVDs that you like? If so, which ones?

No, I haven't bought any sewing DVDs . . . yet.

If you're a fan of free online tutorials, name five for the beginning sewer, please.

I don't know how beginner-friendly these are, but here are my favorites:

Sewing an Invisible Zipper

RTW-Style Zipper Facings

Easy, Flat Fly-Front Zipper

Welt Pockets

Bound Buttonholes

What garment would you suggest that a newbie make first?

Something they would love and would actually want to wear.  I'm not one to suggest elastic waist pants.  I would NEVER wear those.   If I were learning to sew right now, I'd probably want to start with a princess seam sheath dress.  Look at how much that one project could teach you!

Second?

REAL pants with a fly-front!  That way they can learn how to fit in the process.  People love to put fitting on the back burner. 

What is the favorite of all the garments you have made?

It is absolutely impossible for me to pick just one.  There are so many for just as many reasons.  I really love tailoring projects.

I love my jacket I made recently.  I ADORE my houndstooth coat.  And I can't live without my trench jacket!

Love dresses too, especially Vogue 1154 and Vogue 1174!  

What was the first item you sewed that made you beam with pride?

My Armani-knockoff jacket!  Even though if I made it today, there would be a lot more advanced techniques added to it, I still love it!

Name your five top tips for beginners, please.

1. Don't let anyone tell you that you can't sew something.  If you can sew a pillowcase, you can sew that Vogue dress you've been drooling over.  Trust me, it's not brain surgery.

2. It's ONLY fabric!  The world will not come to a screeching halt if you mess it up.

3. The more mistakes you make, the more you'll learn.

4. Work on projects that YOU love!

5.  It pays to be fearless and just jump right in!

What's the last garment that you made and are you pleased with it?

A pair of pants that I'll be posting soon . . .

Have you sewn with unprinted vintage patterns? If so, please share pointers for newbies who might want to try them.

No, I don't sew vintage.  It seems like I can never get my hands on the ones I really, really want (Vogue Couturier). (Editorial note: Ms. B., check out The Blue Gardenia's selection. Do. We have quite a few, and I think VCD 773, copyright 1953, is just panting to be on your cutting table! It has amazing and unusual seaming in the back. Fabulous. And it's our end-of-year sale, so you can be gorgeous and save money. So there.)

How long does it take to get to the Vogue "Plus Difficile" rated pattern?  (I can dream, can't I?)

It seems that Vogue Patterns put the fear of God in a lot of sewers.  I was always told not to sew those because they are difficult. That only made me go at VPs with a vengeance.  You'll never know until you try.

Be a peach and share your funniest sewing adventure, please. 

I don't know how funny it is, but there have been times when I've been sewing tired, and I've sewn things together wrong side to wrong side.  I mean, I serged and everything!  Not fun having to rip out those stitches.

And your most exasperating or difficult.

This wasn't necessarily difficult, but my "Chanel" jacket was exasperatingly time-consuming.

What's your favorite pattern ever to sew, if you remember?

I've sewn so many patterns.  But to this date, I'll say Vogue 1174.  That dress has so many details.  Such a fun project!

How many hours of sewing do you think it takes for the average person to become proficient?

Goosh, that's IMPOSSIBLE to answer because everyone is different.  But I will say that you get out what you put in!

Do you want to see a picture of Erica modeling her very first project? I do. I do. I do. If any classmates have one around, send it in! Please. Is it possible she was ever gawky, pimply, pudgy, skinny, or any other unflattering adjective? Is it? Nah. It isn't.

So. Let me titillate you with an upcoming post or two: I tackle Colette's Crepe pattern. We view The Domestic Diva's sewing room. And it is gorgeous. The very definition, in fact.

Ms. Emma the Malamute is a snow bunny. Absolutely. December 30, 2010 10:11 7 Comments

The East Coast had its blizzard. And we had a winter storm. Very cold. Lots of snow. Definitely snuggling weather. Down coat weather. Or if you are a Malamute, perfect weather. None better. Yes indeedy.

A slight smile, I think. Ms. Emma enjoyed the great outdoors while Bert shoveled a path for dinner guests who braved the storm. (And did not get pecan pie for their efforts. Alas. We can be such lazy hosts. Oh so. But they did get gumbo, which was excellent. His Bertness cooked up a very tasty pot of it. Chicken. Andouille. A nearly black roux. Yum bunnies. And did I mention cornbread?)

A moment of sadness, I think, for her beloved brother, Henry Jones. She misses him. Terribly. As do we all. But we were so very blessed to have him for 9 years and 7 months. So very. We love him so. 

It's The Blue Gardenia's annual end-of-year sale! Rush over. Now. December 25, 2010 16:44 3 Comments

Really, dear readers, in my ever-so-humble opinion, such an exciting announcement deserves multiple exclamation marks. It does. Of course, I do like punctuation. I do. Some might say I like it too much. Those nasty critics. But, I only used one exclamation point. This time. Just one. Because that is all the room the headline allowed. 

Anyway. Here's the deal: Buy three items, get 33% off. Yes, ma'am. Yes, sir. Any three items. Any at all. Mix and match jewelry and patterns to your heart's desire. And there is no limit. Buy 10 items. Buy 100. Buy more. That, my pals, would make me really happy. Ecstatic, in fact. For this fantabulous Blue Gardenia sale, American Express, Discover, Mastercard, Visa or Paypal sales only. 

And. I hope you and yours had the happiest, most joyous Christmas season ever. If, that is, you celebrate Christmas. If you don't, I hope you've had an absolutely sparkling holiday season. I do.

I love Christmas. Especially the cookies. December 19, 2010 13:50 2 Comments

It's that time of year. The time to dirty the kitchen to the maximum. To get flour here. There. Everywhere. To make Christmas cookies.

This year, I decided to try something new. To be bold. To try decorating. Complete with festive sparkles, glaze, glittering sugar. Fortunately, His Bertness was game. He baked. We both let our inner artists out to play and trim the buttery trees and ornaments. It was rather fun. It was. 

Inspired by Casey, who so elegantly muses, we used The Best Rolled Sugar Cookies recipe. And I agree. It is the best. Absolutely. And I think the cookies turned out rather pretty, as well. I do.

Ahh, well. Now that I have bragged about these cookies, time to get back to the baking of the biscotti. Yum bunnies. I love Christmas. Even in a blue year.

Sewing spaces: The tea leaves say we have a winner! December 16, 2010 11:24 2 Comments

Tilia Linden of the blog Linden Blossoms in My Tea has won Colette's fabulous beginner pattern, the Crepe. I thank all of you for your comments. I appreciate them. Each and every one of them. Absolutely. 

Sewing spaces: Elaray's room is another organized creation. December 15, 2010 14:22 10 Comments

You, dear readers, have spoken. A resounding majority of you want to see more Sewing Spaces. And that makes me very happy, because I do as well. Yes indeedy. They inspire me. They do. 

I do have another trick or two up my sleeve. I will do more Channeling Catherines. And. I do have another new series that will debut this week. And two more new series coming up soon. Very.

But now, let's open the door and peer into Elaray's sewing room. Elaray authors the blog Another Creation. I so enjoy reading it. I do. So. Got your beverage? Ready. Set. Go.

Do you have a dedicated sewing space?

Yes, the smallest bedroom in my house is my sewing room.

What do you like best about your sewing area?

I like the fact that I have it!  I don't have to share the room with any other activity.  Well, that's not entirely true.  I sometimes have to use the sewing room as a guest room when family or friends visit.

What would you change about your space?

I would love to take up the carpet and have hardwood or laminate floors.  It's much easier to sweep up pins and threads than to schlep the vacuum cleaner up the stairs.

How is your space organized?

The room is so small, some type of organization is mandatory! Given that I can't get rid of the bed, there are few options for furniture placement.  I have a Horn cabinet that holds my sewing machine and serger.  Most of my supplies are stored in a bookcase.  Because the room is so small, everything is within three steps of everything else.

If you have a fabric stash, how do you impose order?

Sewers who have a "real" stash laugh at my measly little stash.  I call it a "queue". I seldom have more than eight unsewn pieces of fabric.  I honestly don't have room to store fabric.  I keep my fabric in two little bins in the closet of the sewing room.

How are your patterns organized?

This is where my Sewing Related OCD really shows!  I use Burda Style Magazine patterns almost exclusively. I made an index of the Plus sizes from each issue.  I download photos and line drawings from the French website (since the demise of the English website) and put them into a word-processing document.  These pages are arranged by month and kept in a binder.  This may sound like a huge task, but keep in mind, I only use the plus-size patterns in each issue, so the job was doable.  The magazines are kept in pocket files and stored next to the index.

Are your patterns archived? How are they stored?

I built a simple box/drawer that fits on the bottom shelf of the bookcase.  I store my patterns there.  I put all patterns including traced BurdaStyle patterns in plastic pattern storage bags and arrange them by garment.

Do you have a mannequin made to measure?

I don't.  I know it would be very helpful in fitting, but it would be a constant reminder of how out-of-shape I am.  My self-image issues are way too deep! ;)

What do you cut out your patterns on?

I'm very proud of the cutting table I designed and built!  I used a hollow-core door as the table top and sawhorses as legs.  The table straddles the twin bed that must stay in the room.  I'm able to take down the table when I need to use the bed for guests.  Last summer, I made improvements on my original design so that the table can be disassembled and reassembled by one person — namely ME!

What is your most helpful tool? Why?

It's hard to name one most helpful tool.  I use a compass to add seam and hem allowances to Burda patterns and that simple tool has proved most helpful. I use the edge stitch foot on practically every garment I sew.  I also love the large and luxurious wrist pincushion (from Susan Khalje's online store) I recently splurged on. 

What tools do you recommend for the beginning sewer?

A good pair of scissors!  Threaten to stab anyone who uses your sewing scissors on paper — and look like you mean it!  If a beginning sewer chooses to use a rotary cutter, I recommend as big a cutting mat as is practical. 

Are there any books you recommend for the novice sewer?

The Sewing Book by Alison Smith is very good.  It covers just about everything and has hundreds of clear photographs illustrating each step.

What kind of machine do you use?

I have a Bernina 430 that I love!  It's definitely not the top of the line, but it does everything I need it to do.

What do you like about it?

The 430 is basic without lots of bells and whistles, kinda like me!  It suits my personality.

Do you use a serger? If so, why do you like it?

I don't think I could sew without my serger.  I have the Babylock Evolve.  Eight threads make it a very versatile serger.  I like the look of serger-finished seams on the inside of a garment.

How long did it take you to develop your sewing space?

I claimed a dedicated sewing space when I moved from an apartment to my house.  It's been a work in progress for over twenty-five years!  I first had a "sewing area"  in a room that served as an office, guest room and sewing room.  After major renovations (due to a house fire) I moved my office to the basement and set up my current sewing room.  I'm currently dreaming about using my daughter's larger bedroom as a "new-and-improved" sewing space when she graduates from college and is on her own!

Don't forget to enter the Crepe contest. If, that is, you haven't already.

Sewing spaces: Haven't bought your Crepe yet? Click to win one. December 12, 2010 15:16 98 Comments

Sarai, the lovely, talented and generous designer-owner of Colette patterns, has donated a beautiful Crepe pattern to celebrate Sewing Spaces. Now. You know that Gertie is having a Crepe sew-along. You know that Crepe is a beginner pattern. So. If you haven't purchased one yet, here's your chance to get one for the great price of free. Just leave a comment, telling me if you want see more Sewing Spaces or if you're (boo hoo) tired of the series. Be truthful. OK? You MUST leave your comment by December 16 at noon PST. The winner will be picked by random number generator. So. There ya go. All the details you need. At least for this giveaway.

And the winner is Casey, who muses so elegantly! December 10, 2010 07:07 5 Comments

Casey of Elegant Musings is the winner — fortunate, lucky, and all that, if I do say so myself — of four yards of blue teal wool from Michael's Fabrics, Butterick 5679, and Revlon Fire and Ice lipstick and nail polish. And may I say Casey deserves the prize for her tireless holiday baking and for sharing her musings with us? Yes, I may say that. I may, and I will.

I thank you ever so for your patience, dear readers. And for taking the time to comment and enter this contest. And an extra-special warm-and-toasty thank you to all who became followers on Typepad. And, yes, there will be more giveaways. Very soon. Next week, in fact.

And I'll get back to Sewing Spaces very soon as well. Tomorrow, if  not today.

Henry Jones, you deserve a miracle. December 6, 2010 08:38 50 Comments

Saturday, on the way home from the grocery stores, we noticed Henry Jones was not himself. At all. He couldn't get up in time to see sites that usually arouse his interest outside the car windows. Like doggies and their people strolling. When we got home, he didn't want to get out of the car.  His Bertness put on fish in parchment paper. Henry remained enervated. I called the vet, thinking Henry had a simple stomach ailment that would easily be healed with medication. Oh, sweet innocence. Dumb bliss. 

When His Bertness returned with Henry what seemed like hours later, he was crying. "Henry is dying." That's what he said. "Henry is dying." Cancer. I simply could not comprehend this. He said the vet had done X-rays. A sonogram. Drawn blood from Henry's stomach. Henry might not make it through the night. I was distraught. Could not stop sobbing. Did not eat the fish in parchment. Drew hope from the fact that the on-call vet made the diagnosis and not own own beloved Dr. Dow. Alas. Dr. Dow called Sunday morning. His news was worse. Not better. The cancer was in the lungs, as well as the spleen.

So. I have not picked the giveaway winners. I will do so. Be patient. For now, for now I am spending every moment with Henry. Henry who feels tired. Crummy. Henry who sleeps. Fitfully, at times. Henry Jones, who has been the unfailing bright sunlight in this town that longtime readers know I want to flee. Dr. Dow says we will have to make The Decision. Right now, I await a miracle. Please come soon. Please.

The last chance to win this fabulous giveaway draws nigh! December 2, 2010 14:59 1 Comment

 
Do not — I repeat — do not miss the chance to win The Blue Gardenia's exceptional giveaway. It includes this fabulous pattern (or a $27 BG gift certificate), luscious blue teal fabric from Michael's Fabrics (four bee-yoo-tee-ful yards!), and Revlon Fire and Ice lipstick and nail polish. For all the details — and to enter — click here. And I understand it is really quite simple to follow me if you sign into Typepad using your Facebook account. (And I know you want to follow. Don't you? You do. I know it.) The contest ends Friday, December 3, at 11:59 pm. Hurry. Scurry. But. Be careful if you're wearing heels. I don't want you to trip and hurt yourselves, dear readers. I don't. 

(Original magazine ad image from GoAntiques. Thank you. Oh, and it's not included in the giveaway. Sorry!)

Sewing spaces: Patty's as snug as a bug in her neat, green room. December 1, 2010 17:21 5 Comments

Patty has a delightful blog, a delightful sewing space, a delightful wardrobe, and a delightful dog.( Ahhhh, alliteration rears its pesky head!) No delightful or dreadful dustbunnies, though. (Darn it. Alliteration. Again.) Warning: Do not feel inferior if your sewing room isn't this spotless. I wish my sewing area was so Martha-white-glove-ready. But, alas . . . 

Do you have a dedicated sewing space?

Yes! Yes! Yes! After ignoring the clutter on the kitchen table and eventually letting it take over the house and drive my husband (and me) crazy, we finally went to the big blue and yellow Scandinavian store and got a giant white desk to serve as a sewing table. Additionally, there’s a sewing china cabinet in our bedroom for storage and a nook in the basement for backup storage. A three-tiered storage system. Did I mention we live in a tiny house?

What do you like best about your sewing area?

It’s sunny. Everything’s in one place (sort of.) There are hooks on the wall for hanging rulers and projects and my tape measure, which I don’t lose as much now. It’s the toastiest room in the house. There are roses outside the window. It’s a pretty color blue. The full length mirror is right next to the sewing machine. It’s not the kitchen table.

What would you change about your space?

Well, I daydream about removing the guest bed and replacing with a nice island-type cutting table. But we really DO like having guests, so the bed stays. For now. Other than that, perhaps a bit more light for evening sewing. A non-hideous task light would be so nice.

How is your space organized?

Hmm. My sewing room-slash-guest-bedroom has a large desk with shelves and doors instead of drawers and room to stash the sewing machine away when it’s not in use, something that doesn’t happen often. I have a giant collection of perfectly-sized coffee cans, glass jars and such that hold pens, rulers, markers, scissors, pinking shears, my rotary cutter, thread, sewing machine oil and needles, and bobbins along with a little hand-sewing box with small scissors, silk thread, chalk and a few other things.

There’s a small cabinet mounted on the wall with trim, binding tape, elastic, and buttons organized in more coffee cans and glass jars. Inside the desk, I use baskets. One basket for everything for my current project (all the thread, matching hem tape, pattern pieces, fabric.) One basket with interfacing organized so it’s handy and another basket of odds and ends. All the baskets fit in the desk perfectly and slide in and out easily, so that I don’t lose stuff in the back of the shelves.

I have a row of hooks in the sewing room where I hang current projects, larger rulers, my tape measure and sometimes pattern pieces. My mat is tucked behind the mirror.

Additional notions and my ‘right now’ fabric and patterns are stashed in a china cabinet in our bedroom. In my ‘nook’ in the basement, I have more fabric, more patterns, more notions – more everything.

If you have a fabric stash, how do you impose order?

I don’t have that large of a stash, so it’s pretty easy. All the fabric that’s spoken for (has a pattern already assigned) lives upstairs in a china cabinet that belonged to my grandmother. It has glass doors, and I like to be able to see the fabric to let it simmer a bit before I start working on it. Additional fabric that I bought with no particular project in mind, or had a project and was downgraded, lives in my ‘nook’ in the basement. I get rid of stuff that doesn’t work. Occasionally, I become convinced that baby blue is the perfect color for me or some such nonsense (Anthropologie is usually to blame … ) and I will give to friends or donate to a thrift shop.

How are your patterns organized?

Again, I don’t have that much, so they’re only organized in terms of ‘current’ projects upstairs in a magazine file, and other patterns in the basement – they were all in a basket at one point, but they’ve started overflowing a bit. I like to put cut and used ones in a ziplock bag so I don’t have to struggle to refold.

Are your patterns archived? How are they stored?

I don’t really have an archiving system – I am lazy, so I keep my PatternReview account updated, so I can flip through all of them online if I’m looking for something special. At some point, I’d like to come up with something better, as it’s getting a little unwieldy to just scroll through pages of patterns.

Do you have a mannequin made to measure?

Nope! Wish I did, though. Hemming skirts would be so much easier!

What do you cut out your patterns on?

I cut the paper pattern pieces out while watching TV – it’s a fun sewing task to do while hanging out with my husband in the evenings!

I cut out fabric pattern pieces either at my very small kitchen table (only 42” long!) which works alright – I have an elaborate chair system to hold the fabric up, and make use of cans of tuna as weights. Sometimes, I go to the sewing shop close to my house and cut out projects on the huge cutting table there. Fun and easy, plus usually there’s people to chat with while cutting.

What is your most helpful tool? Why?

My Dustbuster. Also, I love my rotary cutter and mat. I had these around from quilting in my 20’s but didn’t try them out for pattern cutting at first — I thought it wouldn’t handle the curves. Once I finally tried it, I never went back.

What tools do you recommend for the beginning sewer?

A tailor's ham really does help with almost everything – no amount of rolled up towels will come close. Good measuring and marking tools are also very helpful — I use my little seam allowance ruler (the little metal ruler with the plastic slidey thing!) all the time, and I LOVE my chalk marking set — different colors of chalk and a penlike holder for them. Also, buy good pins. I like the all-metal dressmaker pins — they’re thick and don’t slide out of the fabric and since they’re all metal, you can iron over them (probably not good for the fabric, but helpful!)

Do you keep a sewing library? Any books you find particularly helpful for beginners?

I am a book nut. For fitting, I use Fit for Real People for bust, shoulder and sleeve issues. For fitting skirts and trousers, I tend to use Pattern Fitting with Confidence (the pivot-and-slide method) more often. I think these two books compliment each other well when learning how to fit patterns properly. I also really loved Claire Shaeffer’s Couture Sewing Techniques for some more advanced methods as well as a good history lesson! Finally, I like Tailoring: The Classic Guide to Sewing the Perfect Jacket and just got The Perfect Fit: The Classic Guide to Altering Patterns by the same publisher.

What kind of machine do you use?

I have a Singer 7430 — a midrange machine with a bunch of decorative stitches and a basic alphabet font set. It’s alright. I don’t hate it, but I dream about getting a purely mechanical machine — I don’t really need all the extra stitches and generally distrust computerized gadgets.

What do you like about it?

I like that it sews. I like that I can disengage the feed dogs and lift the presser foot extra high for working on thick fabrics and lots of layers. In theory, I like the one-step buttonhole options. Speaking of buttonholes, I’ve actually used the blanket/buttonhole stitch a lot, so I guess I like that, too.

Do you use a serger? If so, why do you like it?

No serger!

How long did it take you to develop your sewing space?

We just put together the ‘sewing room’ recently — partially inspired by this blog series! I’m relatively new to obsessive, sewing-machine, garment sewing, so I lasted almost a year with the machine on the kitchen table, before we made a dedicated space.

Do not miss the next Sewing Spaces. We'll visit Elaray of Another Creation. You don't want to miss it. You don't. 

Also, do enter our giveaway. If, that is, you like the luscious fabric, provided by Michael's, and the pattern, lipstick, nail polish provided by The Blue Gardenia, aka moi. And how could you not like it? How could you not love it? How?

Life is good. And this is the dress to celebrate that fact. It is. November 30, 2010 03:02 2 Comments

She is up early today. Unusual for her. She usually sleeps in. Really. Till noon. Sometimes till 1 o'clock. But. She could not sleep. She could not. She tried. And how. Without success. None.

She makes coffee. Stirs cream — yes, whole, heavy cream, complete with raw sugar — into the cup. Again, unusual. For her, anyway. Mmmmm. The cream. A luxury. So good. It is bliss.

She puts on a disc she made. She grabs in the dark. She does not know what her hand selects. The music will be a surprise as it comes out of the speakers. She has not listened to music in months. Months. She could tell you how many. She could. She could be exact. To the minute. To the second.

It is Dusty. " . . . is in yours eyes, the look your heart can't disguise, the look of love is saying so much more than just words can ever say  . . . tonight, tonight, let this be the start of so many nights like this . . . don't ever go, I love you so . . .

They danced to it so many nights. Under the stars, the skin warm on her arms and her bare, tan legs, his hand firmly, tenderly guiding hers, strong yet, yet so gentle . . . 

She is filled with desire. Desire so strong it nearly overwhelms her. She feels as if she opened her mouth, it would seep out. But she will not. She will not. She will keep it inside, that desire for nights long gone, nights that will never come again, desire that makes her feel alive.

Rosemary Clooney's voice comes on next. "Other dancers may be on the floor, dear, but my eyes will see only you . . . " She whips the turn. She is on the dance floor. Her skirt whirls. Flows. She glides.

But. But. He is gone. Gone. "To live it again is past all endeavor . . . and there we were, promising to love forever . . . till clouds came along  . . ."

Oh well. Oh well. He is gone. Gone. It is time to accept that fact. She has mourned the dead romance too long. Absolutely.

The sun rises over the mountains outside her window. She sips her coffee. It is so good with cream. She has deprived herself for too long. She has. She knows now: Life will go on. Life will go on. It will. Yes. That is a cliche. And she hates cliches. But she must admit — she will admit — cliches become cliches for a reason. They do. Because they are true.

Tito comes on. Cha Cha Cha Mambo. She will go dancing this weekend. Alone. She will make a dress with a flippy, flirty skirt to celebrate. She paws through her patterns. Simplicity 8287 from 1969. She has the perfect lime-green silk crepe. Somewhere in her unorganized fabric stash. She will find it. And she will breathe again. She will. She has risen from her bed before dawn. She can do anything. She can. Even get over him. At last.

Oye Como Va comes on. Her hips wiggle. She won't stop them. She won't. Life will be good again. Heck. Life is good. Now. It is.

And, yes, this gorgeous pattern is available. At The Blue Gardenia. You can't live without it. Can you? Tell me so.

I'm tweaking the celebration giveaway. Yes indeedy. November 29, 2010 11:13 7 Comments

Quick celebration giveaway update. Not everyone is a Bust 32 or 34. Not even this sewista wannabe. So. If you are not a Bust 32 or 34, here's the story: You may have a gift certificate from The Blue Gardenia for $27 as a credit toward a pattern in your very own size. How's that? Frankly, I think it's a splendid idea. I do. And, no, dear readers, I am not above tooting my own horn.

Also, a couple of entries have noted that one can sign into Typepad with a Facebook account, which makes it easier to follow me on Typepad. So. You might try, if you are so disposed. Naturally, I appreciate all efforts. Absolutely.

Sewing spaces: A legal eagle and a talented sewista. It's not fair! November 28, 2010 11:30 4 Comments

I am sure Kay, The Sewing Lawyer, is the most fashionable female in the courtroom. Her clothes are lovely. They are. Don't you crave her safari-style jacket? I do. And her space is so organized. (Yes, Kay, I do call that organized! Absolutely.) And her blog is so informative. I always learn something when I read it. And one day — one day — I'll put that knowledge to use ... I promise.

Do you have a dedicated sewing space?

I do.  I have taken over the third bedroom in our bungalow.  It's small (8'x10' approximately) and crammed and usually looks like a tornado just ripped through, but it's all mine! 

What would you change about your space?

I appreciate having my own space, but I don't love the space I have.  If I could start from scratch, it would be about twice the size.  It would have a low window,  which I would face when sewing. I would love enough space to have ALL of my stash and books easily accessible.  I would like to have my computer in there, too.  Maybe when my son moves out permanently I'll take over his bedroom, too — I've already got my Singer 127 treadle machine in there.

How is your space organized?

"Organized" is not the word I'd use.  I have my sewing machines on an L-shaped desk top which sits on two two-drawer filing cabinets.  My cutting table is on the window wall.  My ironing board is between the cutting table and my sewing desk, with pressing tools in a cupboard next to it.  There are high wooden shelf units on the fourth wall.  Basically every inch of wall and floor space is occupied!

If you have a fabric stash, how do you impose order? 

Much of my fabric stash is in my sewing room on deep shelf units in plastic Rubbermaid boxes.  However, my fabric stash is taking over the rest of the house, too . . . There is a large cupboard in our bedroom that's pretty full, and two underbed storage boxes from IKEA.  Oh, and there is also fabric in the linen closet, and some in the basement.  I think I have a problem.

I try to store the fabric by type i.e. cottons, wool, linen, knits.  I keep a record the size and content of each piece as well as where I got it and what I paid.  However, I don't try to record the location.  Between my binder of swatches and my loose filing system, I can usually remember what I have and find it without too much searching. But occasionally, I am surprised to find something I had forgotten about.

How are your patterns organized?

My patterns are crammed into a two-drawer metal filing cabinet.  They are filed in hanging folders by garment type, i.e. suits/separates, coats, dresses, tops, pants & skirts.  However, I desperately need more pattern storage!

I have my Burda magazines archived, sort of.  I scan the covers and line drawings, so I can browse through them on the computer.

Do you have a mannequin made to measure?

>My husband and I made a duct-tape double many years ago.  She is tremendously helpful to check fit and proportion.

What do you cut out your patterns on?

My cutting table is  a hollow-core door which sits on table legs from IKEA at a good height.  I have a cutting mat on top and only use a rotary cutter.

What is your most helpful tool? Why?

I think my iron and ironing board are the most valuable tools I have because having a great iron makes everything look so much better.  I have a Consew gravity feed iron and a Reliable ironing board with a built-in fan to draw steam and heat down and out of what I'm pressing.  It's great for tailoring with wool.

What tools do you recommend for the beginning sewer?

The absolute basics are a good sewing machine, a good iron and a good pair of scissors. 

What kind of machine do you use?

My main sewing machine is a Pfaff 2042 which is about eight years old.  I have a Featherweight which I often use for topstitching (heavier or contrasting thread colour).  I recently bought a Singer 127 treadle machine, but so far haven't used it for garment sewing although I have used it to construct muslins.

Do you use a serger? If so, why do you like it?

My Pfaff 4852 (five thread & coverstitch) is about ten years old.  I use it all the time — to finish seams (two-thread overlock), construct stretchy garments (four-thread overlock), and occasionally for rolled hems.  It is not difficult to switch to the coverstitch, which I like for T-shirt hems and neck edges.  The serger really makes my garments look more beautiful, inside and out.

How long did it take you to develop your sewing space?

I've been in my sewing room for about 10 years and it's still a work in progress . . .

First Sewing Spaces stop next week: Patty, The Snug Bug. She has a cute lil canine pal, and you'll be able to admire him in her room. Adorable? You bet. Her sewing space is rather cute as well. Absolutely.

And don't forget to enter my celebration giveaway. If I do say so myself, it is fabulous! And I would not lie to you. I would not. 

I am thankful for y'all & I'm showing it with a sparkling giveaway! November 26, 2010 07:44 181 Comments

So. You doubtless recall that I promised a fantabulous giveaway when I reached 30 followers. Well. Guess what, cupcakes? That moment has arrived. Yes indeed. It has. Yippee skippee. (Well. Actually, it arrived a few days ago. But. I am a procrastinator. You know that. You do.)

So. Rolling of drums. Blowing of horns. Crashing of cymbals. Here's what one lucky winner will get:

1950s pattern Butterick 5679 from The Blue Gardenia (of course!) in either Bust 32 or 34. Winner's choice. Yes. I agree. I am so nice.

Four yards of choose-your-favorite-over-the-top superlative 55" wide Italian wool from Michael's Fabrics in Blue Teal.

Revlon's Fire and Ice lipstick and nail polish. Introduced in 1952, this is truly vintage. And truly film-noir-vixen sexy. (That's Jessica Biel rocking the look today. The inset pic shows Dorian Leigh making it her own — and how — in 1952.)

Am I one fabulous babe or what? I am. I know you agree.

So. The rules: Leave a comment about why you like vintage patterns and whether you have ever sewn one before by Friday, December 3, 11:59 p.m. PST. And. If you are already a follower on Typepad and enter, or if you become a follower and enter, you get one extra entry. (Yes. I know it's a headache to become a follower on Typepad. I do. But perhaps an extra chance at winning this incredible prize will ease the pain.) See, girls and boys, I show my appreciation for those who show me the looooove. I do.

So. There ya go. And I thank all of you who follow. And I thank Sherri and Michael at Michael's for providing the luscious fabric. Absolutely. And if you haven't checked out Michael's, do. You won't regret it. You won't. I've shopped there several times over the years, and I've not been disappointed. Fast shipping, luxe fabric.

(A little hint: When I reach 75 followers, I'm going to do another sensational giveaway.)

Sewing spaces: Sewing by the seat of her pants? I don't think so. November 24, 2010 09:30

Karen, of Sewing By the Seat of My Pants, wants what she wants when she wants it, and this Thanksgiving, what she wants is a replacement model for her Singer 7426. The one you'll see in her sewing studio is resting in peace. Thank goodness: Another one is winging its way to her abode while you're out buying a turkey or a bean bird. So. Before you put the cornbread on to bake for the dressing, pour yourself a doubtless much needed cup of joe, relax and enjoy Karen's room.

Do you have a dedicated sewing space?

Yes.  I have a small spare bedroom that I took over so that I could keep my work out and not have to tidy up at the end of every sewing session.  I get a lot more done that way, and I don't have to worry about my cats prancing through the patterns when I'm not there to supervise.

What would you change about your space?

I'd like more wall space, so I could put in more organization.  The room has three windows, so they take up a lot of space that could better be used for shelving.  My house is really close to the neighbors, so I tend to keep the curtains closed anyway.

How is your space organized?

Is it organized?  That's a matter of opinion, though I'm always trying to organize it.  I have several small dressers which hold interfacing, linings, leather, vintage patterns, etc.  There's an Ikea chest with wide shallow drawers for zippers, scissors, machine needles, tailoring supplies and other frequently used items.  I have a few racks for thread, separate small tubs for trim, ribbons, etc.  And then there's the stash organization, which is a whole other story.

How do you impose order on your fabric stash?

There are several stash locations in the room.  The biggest by far is the wall unit, which is woven and stretch woven garment fabric.  There's a knit section in two smaller bookcases, and home dec fabrics are stored in a tall wardrobe closet.  My remnant stash is in a plastic clothes hamper.  When it gets full, I sort through it.

How are your patterns organized?

I categorize them by garment type: jacket, skirt, pants, etc.  Most of my patterns are traced, so they're in single-garment envelopes.

Are your patterns archived? How are they stored?

My Burda magazine collection is archived by year; I have a smaller collection of Ottobre, La Mia Boutique and Patrones, which all live together in one section. The traced patterns and regular envelope patterns are stored by category in magazine organizers which live on shelves behind my sewing chair. 

Do you have a mannequin made to measure?

Evelyn is more-or-less my measurements, the measurements just don't fall in exactly the same places, so she's been fluffed out a bit with a bra and some fiberfill, and she has a bit of batting around the waist, right about where I have a bit of batting around the waist.

If so, do you find it helpful?

Not as helpful as I would like.  At some point, I would really like to learn draping, but I haven't found the time to experiment.  It's still very helpful when I need to work on something three-dimensionally instead of flat on the table, or when I can't fit it on myself and pin at the same time. 

What do you cut out your patterns on?

I have two 24 x 36 cutting mats linked together on my table.  Unless the table is covered in stuff (which it generally is) that's more than enough room to cut and trace just about anything.

What is your most helpful tool? Why?

My iron, hands down.  It's not even a good one right now, but it's still the most necessary thing in the room after the sewing machine.  I think the biggest sewing epiphany I ever had was when I realized that you can't sew well without pressing.  

What tools do you recommend for the beginning sewer?

An iron that doesn't spit on your fabric.  Good scissors and/or a rotary cutter.  Rotary cutters are invaluable for cutting knits, especially, and it makes the whole process go so much more quickly.  Sharp pins, extra needles and replacement blades for your rotary cutter, because they're always more dull than you think they are.

What kind of machine do you use?

My standard workhorse machine is a Singer 7426, not a particularly spiffy machine, but it does everything I want it to, and it makes nice buttonholes.  I also have a Juki (which needs repair right now, so we're not on speaking terms).  I have a Janome CP900 coverstitch machine, which was the best Christmas present ever, because I hate twin-needle sewing on knits.  I have a vintage Singer with attachment that I use as a dedicated buttonholer. 

What do you like about them?

My Singer 7426 was purchased about six years ago as a stand-in until I could get a really good machine.  Surprisingly, by the time I got my really good machine, I was really attached to the Singer.  The only thing I didn't like about it was its very inadequate light, but I got an Uber light last year that I can point directly at the sewing surface, so that solved that problem.

Do you use a serger?

I don't have one, and I don't have any plan to get one. (At this point, I don't have room for one, anyway).  I sew a lot of knits, but I've never had a problem sewing them on my standard machine using either the stretch stitch or a small zigzag.  And now that I have the coverstitch, my only reason for wanting a serger is moot.

How long did it take you to develop your sewing space?

It's still under development, as far as I'm concerned.  The alcove where the Coverpro and the Juki are situated is a recent addition.  It used to be a shallow closet that I couldn't really use, and last year I tore it out and put in a shelf and the counter as an extra work surface.  The wall of the alcove also serves as an inspiration space where I can tape up all the pictures I tear out of magazines — this way, at least I'll be able to find them when I want them.

This weekend, take a moment out from holiday festivities to tour The Sewing Lawyer's studio. Also, I'll be posting a new giveaway. And you don't want to miss either post. Do you?

Meanwhile, dear readers, have a warm and wonderful Thanksgiving!

Sewing spaces: Steph creates 3 hours past the edge of the world. November 21, 2010 08:56 2 Comments

Meet Steph of 3 Hours Past the Edge of the World. If you haven't already. She's an American. Who lives in strange land that is not the United States. (I do believe we have become one of the strangest lands around in the last year or so, a land best approached with a sea-to-shining-sea dose of humor. I love this country. I do. So much. But I would love to see sanity and tolerance and respect restored. "You go, then I go," to quote Jon Stewart. But that's another story. Heavy sigh. It is.)  To get back to today's topic: Steph sews. She creates splendiferous garments. She blogs. Don't miss her post on candy stripes. A delight. Absolutely. But  now, let's tour the space where she creates her gorgeous garments.

Do you have a dedicated sewing space?

I have half the study. My machines and ironing board stay out permanently. Occasionally, my sewing/experimenting takes over the house, but I do try to keep it contained.

What do you like best about your sewing area?

The cork floor tiles on the wall. I pin up all the little bits that used to clutter my sewing space. Extra pockets, samples, scraps, drawings, pictures of family, orphaned patterns, pretty colors.

What would you change about your space?

Right now I "share" with my "darling husband": his fishing gear, entomology projects and computer. Eventually, I'll have a room of my own: natural light, glass-fronted cupboards for fabric, an outsize cutting table and a kitchenette.

How is your space organized?

I have a comfy desk chair, and I barricade myself behind the ironing board.  My sewing machine sits on a computer table, my computer sits on the pull-out tray beneath.  My overlocker sits on a desk to the right. 

It works pretty well to have the ironing board lowered to sitting height. I can pin, sew, finish and press by just spinning my chair.  I used to think that was lazy, but this set up greatly improved my sewing speed. 

I have a wooden tackle box next to my machine.  Everything for a current project lies within arm's reach that way, no stopping to fumble around finding bits or fugitive tools. 

If you have a fabric stash, how do you impose order?

I don't tend to stash, except fabrics of a particularly flattering tone of blue. My sewing goes through phases — I buy a nice pile of fabric, then work on the patterns, then cut, then sew, then buy again.

My stash, such as it is, consists mainly of scrap, inheritance and reclaimed fabrics.

How are your patterns organized?

I keep them in labeled manila envelopes along with any notes or scraps of fabric or whatever I think might be useful the next time I open the pattern. I have an accordion file which holds patterns for my little girl, my husband, crafts and my mother-in-law. I have a few others for my personal patterns, divided by decade. I store them in a little shelf by my sewing machine, sometimes stuffing them under the overlocker desk.

Are your patterns archived? How are they stored?

Since I work primarily from vintage patterns, which are in dwindling supply, I tend to copy a pattern and release it back into the wild via ebay. I never do that for patterns after the early 50s. I have a file on my computer of envelope scans, then I rummage through accordion files until I find it. When I am in the middle of a sewing frenzy, I often end up with orphaned pattern pieces. They go on the cork board until the pattern envelope turns up. Call it controlled chaos.

What do you cut out your patterns on?

I use kitchen counter or "bench" as the Aussies call it. I keep polytrace (for copying patterns), scissors, and some patterns in a commandeered cabinet beneath. My drafting tools hang on a board next to the fridge.

What is your most helpful tool? Why?

Can I name three if they all go together? Quilter's rule, rotary cutter and mat. I use it for quilting (obviously) as well as cutting bias strips, for squaring up, for cutting welts, some kinds of cuffs, bags, etc.

What tools do you recommend for the beginning sewer?

I teach beginner sewers. I know at the beginning, it seems like you fork out a lot of $$ to set up, but try to get the best tools you can afford. It's hard to do good work when you have to fight with your tools.

Scissors: They don't have to be expensive, but they do need to be sharp and dedicated solely to fabric.

Pins: Glass head, so they won't melt.

Chalk for marking.

Seam ripper: Once again, a nice sharp one is easier to use.

Measuring tape

Quilter's ruler: I'm so not kidding about how great they are.

Quality thread: Inferior thread creates inferior stitching. A branded thread is a safe bet, avoid generic like the plague.

Magnetic pincushion: not required, but many end up with one because they're so convenient.

What kind of machine do you use?

I use a Janome 4900 for my sewing and a Husqvarna 905 for my overlocking (serging).

What do you like about it?

I like the way it trills an electronic greeting when I turn it on. I like its get-up-and-go motor. I like the stitch quality. I like its bartacks, eyelets, hemstitching and range of decorative stitches. I like all the crazy feet it came with. I have to be familiar with all those functions as part of my job, so I constantly use the feet and stitching in my own sewing.

My machine is reliable, too. I don't have to stop sewing to fix some machine issue, which is a motivation killer for me.

Do you use a serger? Why do you like it?

I do use a serger, but it's not the be all and end all in my sewing. I use it mostly for casuals, little girl clothes and knits. I find it invaluable for that. However, I like to line garments, I like felled, French and Hong Kong seams, and I find they usually wear harder in the long run.

How long did it take you to develop your sewing space?

I've been working on my corner of the study for about a year now, but it only recently started feeling "right."

Mmmmm. Note to self: When setting up my space, consider the technique of Erica B. and Steph to keep things within arms' reach.

Next on Sewing Spaces: Karen of Sewing by the Seat of My Pants and Kay of The Sewing Lawyer. Don't miss 'em. Be there, be square. And all that.

And. No. No. I have not forgotten that I promised to update you, dear readers, on my own forays into the world of needle arts. I haven't. Maybe later today. Maybe. It could happen. Absolutely.

(Meanwhile: You go, then I go, she chanted.) 

How to deal productively with your anger? Why, sew. Of course. November 17, 2010 09:15 13 Comments

OK. You'll admit it. You are annoyed about the decision on DWTS last night. Heck. You are pissed! Totally. First, Rick Fox, so sexy you could eat him with a spoon, was bounced, even though he was a far superior
dancer than Kurt Warner. Then elegant, graceful, no-dance-experience-to-her-resume Audrina Patridge was shown the door. And now, sexy, lithe Brandy booted, gracelessly, while reality TV starlet and presidential campaign veteran Bristol Palin, whom you'll admit has learned to be drug across the floor in the most simple choreography ever to be shown at this late date on the show, stays. Stays! In the finals. The finals! Isn't this show about dance? Maksim Chmerkovskiy's choreography for Brandy was difficult — and how — while Mark Ballas's choreography for Bristol was beginning-dance-class simple. And you're a trained dancer, so you know. You do. Grrrrrr. You wonder: Are so many white folks in America threatened by gorgeous black people like Fox and Brandy? Sure, Kyle Massey is still on the show. Sure. He is. And he deserves to be in the finals. He does. You won't argue that. But. He's childlike, delightful, totally non-threatening. He's the sweet and innocent saucer-eyed porter who ducks behind the bar in the 1930s screwball comedies when the silly white folk start throwing dangerous objects here and there.

Yes. You are angry. You are. 

So. What to do with your anger? What? How to deal with it productively? How? Sew. That is the answer. Sew. A lot. Cape. Slacks. Skirt. Top. Hood. All designed by Sybil Connolly. All gorgeous. All sophisticated. All extremely wearable. All from the late '60s. All included in Vogue Couturier Design 1125. And. Yes. It is available at The Blue Gardenia. Yes indeedy. So. Buy the pattern. And tell me what you think. Heck. Tell me what you think. Even if you don't buy the pattern.

Sewing Spaces: Kristin of k-line's room is as pretty as she is. November 16, 2010 15:57 5 Comments

Oh my. In fact, oh my, oh my, oh my, oh my! Kristin of k-line has only been sewing for a year. A year! I feel totally deflated. Yet inspired. There is hope for me. Somewhere. Somehow. But. Enough about me. Enough about my lack of dedication to learning the craft. (Just do it, Denise! Do it.) Let's go see the stitching area of a dame with the pluck to go the distance. And how.

Do you have a dedicated sewing space?

I have a "sewga" room — a place I used formerly only for yoga practice (it was zenlike and empty) — which is now shared with my sewing paraphernalia. It isn't huge, but it works very well for its purposes. I am extremely grateful for it.

What do you like best about your sewing area?

Oh, I like so much. It's got great natural light (though not much in the way of views). It's got lovely hardwood floors and a mirror that makes me look skinny :-). I love my table with my machines. I just got these new organizer bins with a wood top that are quite cool and useful, IMO. Oh, and it has a door!

What would you change about your space?

Ha! Well, I'd give it a fantastic view. And I'm working on better task lighting (mine sucks) and a functional chair. I would, of course, love for both of these to be very chic. So it's taking a while.

How is your space organized?

Within an inch of its life! Well, I use the wooden cupboard for my fabric. The bins for notions and props and my special pattern filing system (stolen from Victoria). I like everything to be very straight, too. What I mean is, I can't stand it when things are off grain. So everything is lined up.

If you have a fabric stash, how do you impose order?

I have a stash, and I'd have a store if I could justify it. How I love fabric. All the potential in the universe exists on its surface. My deal with myself is that when I can't fit stuff in the cupboard, I stop buying. So far, so good. But it's close.

How are your patterns organized?

Oh, I have this great system which I mentioned at some length in a blog post. Here's the synopsis: I have a binder containing a pattern index which relates to clear plastic envelopes, also in the binder, that store pattern paper sleeves. The actual patterns are stored in my special storage bins. Index numbers link the pattern to the clear envelope to the index sheet to the binned pattern-content envelopes.

Are your patterns archived? How are they stored?

Oh, I guess my last answer goes with this question too. The pattern contents are archived in the storage bins, after use. So far I haven't exceeded the amount of space in those.

Do you have a mannequin made to measure?

I wish! I want one of those fancy made-to-measure ones that cost hundreds of bucks, but I'm still paying off my new serger :-) I think it would be very useful to be able to drape. I love sewing with stretch fabrics and knits and using drape styles.

What do you cut out your patterns on?

My dining room table. I use a rotary cutter and self-healing mats. It's not an optimal system. I need a mat that fits the entire table. Haven't got that yet and, truly, I have no idea of where I'd store it —  but I couldn't leave it out.

What is your most helpful tool? Why?

I find this to be one of your most fascinating questions, Denise. How can I choose? I'm going to go with my rotary cutter, because it's so much better than scissors, IMO. Mind you, I've only ever used scissors once, so I could be making that up. Of course, I am indebted to my machines.

What tools do you recommend for the beginning sewer?

A decent machine — which need not break the bank or require Ebay scouting skills. I use one from Wal-Mart (not that I like to plug Wal-Mart, but my point is that it's a really reliable machine, and I got it for 200 bucks). Knowing what I know now, I might have tried to find a great mechanical machine second hand — like one from the '70s. But mine works very adequately. I did add about 100 bucks into the machine in presser feet and gizmos.

What kind of machine do you use?

I have a Brother CE5000. (I also have a Singer 185J, theoretically manufactured in the '50s in Canada, but I have my suspicions. I've looked into the serial numbers, and I think the shell was actually imported from Scotland. . . . My MIL gave me this one, which was her sewing machine when she got married. It's a tank — beautifully made and, now that it's refurbished, it works excellently. But I'm a bit intimidated by it still. Oh, and it doesn't do anything other than a straight stitch. So if I'm working on a project that needs multiple machine functions, I tend to stick with the Brother.)

What do you like about the Brother?

It's knowable. And it was easy to learn on. And it sews nice stitches — even with knits, which I understand some machines don't play nice with.

Do you like your serger? If so, why?

Oh, YES! I love this question, because I just got a serger, and it's a Babylock Imagine — the ne plus ultra. I feel a bit like a fraud for owning such a beautiful machine with my level of talent and experience, but I will grow into it. I swear!

How long did it take you to develop your sewing space?

I started sewing Nov. 1, 2009, and, at first, sewed at the dining room table, sewga room notwithstanding, until the early new year. It took me a couple of months of sewing in a communal space before I felt comfortable enough to cloister myself. I also didn't know if I'd have the fortitude to continue. But here I still am. And my room is definitely a work in progress.

Later this week, I'll chat with Steph of 3 Hours Past the Edge of the World. And. And — are you sitting down, dear readers — I'll share what I've been up to. Can you wait? I know it's hard. I do. But try. OK? 

Sewing Spaces: Casey muses and sews with elegance. Indeed. November 13, 2010 14:53 5 Comments

Casey, she of the most Elegant Musings, doesn't just blog about sewing. She shares recipes and pincurling sets and all manner of tidbits. And, of course, they are all ever so elegant. And even though she moves frequently, nothing about her sewing area looks temporary. Nothing. I think you'll agree. (And isn't her green dress gorgeous? Not to mention Casey herself!)

Do you have a dedicated sewing space?

I currently have a sewing nook along a couple walls of back walls in the extra bedroom in my home ­— which is a considerable improvement from my previous space! (I had to stuff all my sewing equipment in my little room at my parents' house, and it competed with space for my "office", book collection, bed and closet!) I share it with my husband's office, our exercise equipment, the guest room and storage space.

What do you like best about your sewing area?

Definitely the amount of room I have to spread out a bit more — and I don't have to clean up every evening if I'm in the middle of something before I call it a night. Good natural light is also a huge plus; there is a large window next to my desk, and I can never have enough of natural light. It's pretty perfectly situated. I also like that I have the wall space to spread out all my inspiration bits and pieces; surrounding myself with the things that inspire me creatively is very important.

What would you change about your space?

I'd love more space (what sewist wouldn't?!)! Especially storage space — probably a few more shelves, another window and an extra desk to put my computer at (for random inspiration surfing, blogging, email checking and listening to music/podcasts). I'd also love to have the space to have a rolling rack to hang works-in-progress on. A dedicated cutting surface would be lovely too . . . and save my back! Maybe a few places to put my vintage inspiration pieces (both garments and papers) to make them more accessible. I'm also very attuned to making my space really pleasant visually to work in, and I hate having beige walls (the walls in my previous space were a gorgeous shade of blue) and not being able to go really crazy with things on the walls. I'd also love curtains! I did have those up for awhile, but had to take them down due to a water leak problem (right now, I just have a little banner I made from vintage sewing pictures hanging above the window for decoration).

How is your space organized?

One side of the room has the table which holds my machines, basic sewing supplies, notions in a small Ikea drawer set, and my bulletin board (used to hold patterns, inspiration and swatches). On the opposite wall are two Ikea shelves that hold the majority of my larger supplies and where my dress form is usually tucked away. I currently have the shelves set up to hold part of my fabric stash, boxes of notions/trims/interfacings, patterns and some of my vintage lace and embroidery supplies. I also have a few boxes in the room's closet with less-used supplies and inspiration materials.

If you have a fabric stash, how do you impose order?

I'm still working on this a bit; it's hard since I only have so much space and need to keep it in check because we move a lot. I also admit I am not the most organized person of the Earth, but am trying to fix that! Currently, I have the larger cuts of fabric (those that are suitable for garments) folded on the shelving units along one wall — I try to keep that to about two shelves. I also have another box of larger cuts, linings and heavier fabrics; as well as a box of random "scraps" or little accent pieces. I find any more fabric, and I tend to forget what I have — and it also keeps me using what I do have since most of it is out in the open.

How are your patterns organized?

Since I work with a lot of vintage patterns, I tend to keep those easily available — right now, they're confined to two boxes I bought at Target earlier this year that are about the right proportions for patterns. I also have another (larger) box in the bedroom closet with all my self-drafted patterns, muslins, tracings and random patterns that are too big for the other containers (like Folkwear and such). I am finding this works out pretty well — although I think I need either a third box or bigger ones for the vintage patterns already!

Are your patterns archived? How are they stored?

For the vintage patterns, I keep them separated by time period (one box is pre-1950, the other is pre-1990) and then divided by pattern company. (I just made dividers out of cardboard scraps!) Each is in its own clear, acid-free sleeve, so I can flip through the boxes and see what each looks like front and back without having to pull them out. (I've also scanned and created a catalog of my patterns on my computer, so I don't always have to run in my sewing room to look at something!) For the patterns I've drafted or modern ones, I generally keep those in large zip bags and clearly labeled so I don't get confused as to what is in it!

Do you have a mannequin made to measure?

One day, I'd love one! But for right now I have an adjustable dress form I purchased at JoAnn's years ago. I bought it as a teenager and saved and saved for that — and managed to get it at a good price, because it was the last floor model in the store! Eventually, I'd like to upgrade to a professional form, if nothing else because it would look nice when I photograph pieces I've made for myself.

Do you find your form helpful?

Even though mine is purely "ideal proportions", I do find it immensely helpful since I have to fit all my garments myself.

What do you cut out your patterns on?

I use a large, folding cardboard cutting board on the floor. Not too sophisticated, but it works for the space I have right now. One day, I plan on having a sewing room where I can have a large table on risers dedicated as a cutting surface!

What is your most helpful tool? Why?

Oh goodness . . . it's a toss-up between my serger and pressing tools! The serger has made my sewing so much more efficient and allowed me to create garments that I feel are more professional and finished. But pressing is even more vital to a garment that looks well-made — I am constantly grabbing the various pressing forms and clapper (all have been thrifted/inherited).

What tools do you recommend for the beginning sewer?

Good dressmaker's scissors (I've had my Gingher shears for years, and they serve me well!), a decent sewing machine, a good iron and at least a pressing ham, seam ripper, pins of various sorts, tracing paper (always a must in my sewing room!) and good thread (as funny as it may sound). I wrote about my favorite tools and "necessary" items in a post a bit ago.

What kind of machine do you use?

I am currently using both my mother's older Singer (late '80s model) and a Kenmore that my mother-in-law gave me (an early '90s machine). I actually own five machines in total; but two of those are vintage cabinet models, and my parents are currently storing them in their basement until I have the room for them! I am a bit of a compulsive sewing machine collector . . . especially when it comes to pretty vintage machines. It's only my current lack of space that keeps me from acquiring more!

What do you like about your machines?

The Singer is a workhorse — it's one of the older models that is mostly metal workings and the one my mother taught me to sew on; I tend to use it for the "heavy duty" sewing. The Kenmore is a bit fancier with some computerized settings that I have found helpful for the odd project or embellishment. The buttonhole setting works a lot better on that one, too. I haven't fully explored what this one does — I've had it for less than a year — but need to sit down with the manual and try some of the "fancy" settings.

Do you use a serger? If so, why do you like it?

I was able to get a serger after last Christmas — it's been on my wish list for the last four years. It's a basic model and cost less than $200, but I found it has improved my sewing immensely. It certainly cuts down on time spent finishing seams. One thing I haven't done as much with as I had hoped is sewing knits — but maybe I'll investigate that more next year.

How long did it take you to develop your sewing space?

My sewing space is constantly evolving; and because we move a lot, I can't really dedicate a ton of effort and money to customizing a space just so. In many ways, mine has to be portable and easy to move! In its current incarnation, it's taken about one-and-a-half years to get it to this point; I just add things as I have the inspiration, funds and find pieces to suit my needs. That being said, my space has always incorporated many of these basic elements —even when it was crammed into my bedroom. I've always had at least a small table for my machine, my dress form, some sort of storage (it used to be a small side table with drawers) and an inspiration board.

Next stop: K-Line. So. Get your ticket. And don't be late. Okeydoke? 

Sewing Spaces: Sewistas, we have a winner . . . November 11, 2010 12:48 7 Comments

We do. And she is one lucky female. Her name is Marisa, and her blog is beautiful, and I suppose I will have to forgive her for not being a regular reader. Or will I? Some things pierce the heart too deeply, and perhaps this is one. Pass those Puffs, please.

At any rate, she will be getting her prize — the ever-so-feminine Crepe pattern from Colette, luscious royal blue wool crepe from Gorgeous Fabrics, a cute-as-a-mewling-pup pin cushion from The Cupcake Goddess and pretty Cherries in the Snow, both lipstick and nail polish. (A warm-and-toasty thank you to Sarai, Ann, Sunni — and ever-so-modest me — for providing prizes. I bow to all of you. I do.)

And, Marisa, congratulations! Absolutely. And I thank each and every one of you for entering. I am touched and pleased that so many people left a comment. I am. Truly. And, yes, there will be another contest soon. Very.

You want to know more about me. Right? I know you do. November 10, 2010 10:50 6 Comments

So. Check out The Snug Bug. That's an order. (Albeit a gentle one.) Patty's post today is an interview with me. As in little old. It may be too much information. It may not. You won't know until you read it. At any rate, you'll love Patty's blog. I do. Absolutely. (And I also love the toile dress she's wearing at left. In fact, I almost covet it. I do. And she made it herself. Am I impressed? You betcha.)