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 ...
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 ...