Made by a Fabricista: Tomboy Chic

Now that the weather is finally starting to cool, my need to get glammed up is diminishing. At the same time, I realized I didn't have too many options in my wardrobe for the days I just want to put on some sneakers and still maintain my own personal style. I mean, my gym clothes are pretty dope, but they are just that, gym clothes. Somehow, I missed having more than a couple options for my"kick back" days.

The fabric I used is a heather gray 100% wool chunky sweater knit from Fabric Mart. The fabric is no longer available, but is very similar to this choice (HERE). The only difference is the fabric in the link is a lighter knit in weight.

The pattern I used for the sweat pants is oddly Vogue 1411. I have made these pants in every variation OTHER than what it was designed for. Both previous pairs I made were with Goat and Lamb skin leather. I cut my normal size before thoroughly pressing the fabric to loosen the weave.

This time I chose to double the pattern pieces on the middle front piece and create a 1/4 quilted top stitch design for a total of 4 pattern pieces in stead of 2.

To attach the two pieces per leg, I attached the middle front pattern pieces to the upper front pieces right sides together.

Once the pieces were attached, I completed the top stitch design before adding the bottom side pieces. I then drafted my own tight fitting cuff for the bottom of the pants and added elastic to the waistband

Finally, this jacket! I have been experimenting with different textures and designs that will change a normal garment into something truly different and unique. This is one of the outerwear jackets I was working on over the past week. A great deal of painting and repainting went into it. Because............. it would be too much like right for me to leave a brand new jacket in its original state right? RIGHT!!! I look forward to showing you the next set of ideas I have been working on.

Overall, I love this look. The chunky sweater knit on the pants is super warm so I know it will last me from now through the winter. The fabric does tend to roll a lot, but no more than your typical jersey/ITY knits. The construction involved a great deal of pressing.

Until next time, happy sewing!

Jenese

Needles and Fashion

Made By A Fabricista: Everything Old is New Again: A Linen Skirt Using an Old(er) Pattern

Hello Sewing Friends! It’s Sharon from Sharon Sews with my last post for 2024! This time I used one of my favorite fabrics, linen. Fabric Mart usually has an excellent selection of linens . I should know as I’ve ordered my fair share over the years. This time I choose a medium-weight 100% linen with a black and white abstract print. When I ordered the fabric, my plan was to use an old Issey Miyake pattern and sew myself an oversized linen coat. But when the fabric arrived it told me it would be happier as a skirt. Your fabric also talks to you, right? I’ve been drawn to the look of satin bias skirts paired with oversized sweaters but knew that skirt style doesn’t work on my body shape. Plus, once the holidays are over a satin skirt would just sit in my closet. But a linen skirt, in a neutral black and white print, could be worn during the winter months with boots and a sweater and easily transition to warm weather with a tee and sand...

Made By A Fabricista: Cozy two piece lounge set with cotton jersey from Fabric Mart.

There is something incredibly nostalgic about old school gym wear. I love the relaxed fits and timeless appeal. It takes me back to my high school gymnasium days. When I stumbled upon this beautiful heather grey cotton jersey knit from Fabric Mart Fabrics, I knew exactly what I wanted to create: a two piece lounge set that would be easy to wear and perfect for the cooler Florida weather we have been having. The Fabric The heather grey cotton lycra jersey knit was perfect. It’s soft, lightweight, and has just the right amount of stretch. The subtle marled texture of the fabric added depth and character, making it an ideal choice for recreating a vintage gym look. The fabric is comfortable and warm enough for our recent cooler temps. It washed and dried beautifully. It’s breathable and easy to work with, a dream for any sewing project. The Pattern I chose McCall’s 4261 Spa Essentials from 2003. ...

Made By A Fabricista: Playing with Classic Silhouettes and Timeless Color Palettes

When it comes to sewing, few things excite me more than reimagining classic designs and breathing new life into timeless patterns. As someone who has been sewing for over 25 years, I thrive on exploring unique details and construction techniques that make each piece feel special. Recently, I found inspiration in a previous look I’d created and decided to take it a step further, crafting a full outfit that plays with volume, texture, and classic styling. See below my dress from 2011 that I drew inspiration from. The Fabric For this project, I chose a Glen Plaid Suiting fabric from Fabric Mart, a timeless yet versatile pattern that instantly elevates any garment. The fabric’s classic black-and-white palette gave me the perfect base to experiment with silhouettes and pairings while keeping the overall look chic and cohesive. I love how this fabric’s pattern gives off an air of sophistication yet lends itself beautifully to bold, modern designs. The Dress For the dress, I used the VikiSew...

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