Made by a Fabricista: Summer Blues

Here comes SUMMER!!

Happy Saturday! I am so excited about Memorial weekend and a mini getting away for a few days. It has been raining all week and my plans to go the beach was ruined. I have 13 more work days and I am counting down by the hour. Being an educator is so rewarding and honestly, one of the perks is I look forward to is my summer break with my children. Over the last few months, I have really spent time understanding my lower body measurements with a focus on the fit of pants, shorts, and culotte just in time for Summer.

Made using Simplicity 8558 (CROP PANTS). Fabric: PRE-CUT DEALS!

The last 3 months I have been working on learning how to make adjustments to pants and shorts patterns based on my body type.

TOP: Ogden Cami, Shorts: Simplicity 8558 (SHORTS)

I have always wanted to make linen shorts that are perfect for these hot summer days that can be dressed up or down. I had cut these a few months ago and finally took an hour to sew them up. These for sure are beginner friendly and I honestly love the fit of this pattern and the minor adjustment needed. After measuring the pattern pieces, the only adjustments needed was to add an inch to the width on the front and back pattern pieces as I only purchased the size (6-14). I also opted NOT to include the string and to only add elastic in the middle row. When I first started sewing, I would purchase 2 patterns as the range is typically 6-14 and my pants measurement typically fall in the 16 range and the top a size 8 or 10. After gaining some experience, I have mastered the art of grading patterns and making adjustments.

To make the shorts, all you will need is 1 yard of linen (royal blue) if you are not adding the pockets. Fabric Mart has a wide selection of LINEN fabrics here.

Added only 1 row of elastic to make it a paper bag waist shorts!

Opted NOT to include pockets!

Top Pattern: Ogden Cami

After making my first pair of high waist pants (here) using McCall M7726, I knew I wanted to try a pair of shorts using denim twill to test a few adjustments and rock it on my trip to Jamaica and during the month of July for Sewcation Miami.

These shorts and the adjustment I made are perfect but I am not sure about the style for my hip to waist proportion. I also purchased the book Pants Fit for Real People and have bookmarked a few sites that shares adjustments. Check out the Sewalong website here to learn about adjusting based on your derriere which has great visuals. For this pair of denim shorts, the only adjustments I made was to the back pattern piece using the SPREAD method shown here in yellow.

Learning and understanding my body and the patterns that work for me has been my focus this year. I know for sure that I will be making a few more summer crop pants and shorts but will attempt to draft my own pattern and create a few muslins to work on the fit.

M7726 - VIEW A shorts - VIEW B pants

I just ordered a few yards of the Ralph Lauren cotton sateen from Julie's pick for the month of May and I am super excited to try a skinny fit tailored pants. Fabric Mart has the denim twill here so grab a few yards for your next summer shorts or pants.

Top stitched to give it a MORE denim look!

Do you have any special sewing projects for your this summer? I have tons and will definitely make pieces that are versatile and fun. As always, thank you so much for reading and I be sure to check out my blog to see my latest makes!

Marica, Overdriveafter30

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...

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...

Fabric Mart Fabricistas

Search This Blog