Made by a Fabricista: Charlie Caftan

It's official, I love Closet Case Patterns! Eventually I believe I will make all of them! I've already made the Clare Coat, Fiona Sundress and Amy Jumpsuit. I also have the Ginger Skinny Jeans, Sasha Trousers and Kalle Shirtdress in my pattern collection, but my latest make is this mini length Charlie Caftan.

Charlie Caftan Pattern / Kaftan Pattern | Closet Case Patterns

It was difficult to decide which view to make. I like the architectural look of View A and knew Fabric Mart's designer quality linen would provide the perfect structure. On the other hand Fabric Mart typically stocks a lovely assortment of challis and it is one of my favorite fabrics. Ultimately I decided that flow-y would beat out structured (this time). Despite the fact that fall is approaching I decided on the shorter version (but added the ties) and will just wear the heck out of it for the next several weeks.

I used this beautiful gray and white diamond print challis which has a super soft hand! This is going to be so comfortable to wear. The listing accurately describes the fabric as translucent, but with the loose floaty feel and front gathers I am not concerned about anything showing.

I'll be honest I was a tad concerned about installing the panel. Looking over the instructions reminded me of welt pockets instructions, which I've never sewn because they seem tricky. Thankfully the instructions were clear and installations was a success (though not perfect). I followed the sewing machine instructions for enclosing the panel on the inside of the dress because I hate hand sewing, but the instructions walk you through both options. Closet Case also has a blog post on the panel installation which includes step by step photos in case you need extra help.

Everything else is really a breeze. I'm super pleased with how it turned out and now I know I need Views A and C too.

See you next month!

Tiffany

TipStitched.com

Help Our Buyers Shop!

Comment on this post with what you are looking for right now and our buyers will seek it out! I am craving wool gabardines and ponte knits in fun autumn colors. What about you?

Made By A Fabricista: Jalie Open Front Blazer-Style Cardigan

Hi everyone, this is Byrd with my latest Fabricista make! If you’re looking for a versatile transitional spring layering piece - something you can dress up for the office or dress down for everyday wear - this ponte knit blazer-style cardigan might be exactly what your handmade wardrobe needs. This time around I’m sewing the Jalie Open Front Blazer-Style Cardigan , an indie sewing pattern designed for stable knits, using Fabric Mart’s Wet Sand Rayon/Nylon/Lycra Ponte Knit . This fabric and pattern pairing creates the perfect structured knit cardigan for spring, fall, and even cool summer evenings. The pattern specifically calls for a stable knit, and this rayon/nylon/lycra ponte knit was an ideal choice. Ponte fabric provides structure and recovery while still offering comfortable stretch, making it perfect for blazer-style cardigans, knit jackets, and professional layering pieces. The “wet sand” neutral tone is a wardrobe workhorse. If you’ve been following along, you know I usually ...

Made By A Fabricista: Summoning Spring

As we slowly (very slowly) start to leave winter behind, I am starting to resent my heavy coats and crave light and flowy garments. So what better way to summon Spring than this airy little gem of a blouse! The fabric is a delightful silk cotton voile that floats mid-air like a feather as it drapes around you, truly whimsical and exactly what I was looking for! I had never sewn anything this fine or sheer before, and even though it wasn't as daunting as the internet made it out to be, I certainly learned a lot in the process. For instance, I found myself paying closer attention to my sewing machine settings and for once I actually swapped my universal sewing needle for the more appropriate microtex needle. Also, the fraying was legendary and unfortunately I didn't realize until I had already lost ¼ of an inch around the hem. Once I pinked the raw edges I was OK, so in the future I'll remember to pink my raw edges to minimize fraying during construction. Overall I really ...

Fabric Mart Fabricistas

Search This Blog