Dress: Vogue 1236

I can't remember if I saw someone else that made this pattern, or if I just came across it myself, but either way, it is awesome. V1236 is a DKNY pattern, and probably can be used with about any type of fabric you fancy. The envelope says Seersucker, Chambray, jersey.

V1236

I used a cotton sateen, from the Lisette line at Joann's.

I really liked this fabric upon first touch, so I bought it without a solid plan for use. I think the fabric matches the feel of the dress pretty well, and I am quite happy with the outcome!

The dress includes pockets, and although it wasn't the first time I have attempted pockets, this is the first garment I've actually worn with pockets! I do wish the dress was an inch or so longer.

No, that's not a nicotine patch on my arm. I've been having muscle spasms in my shoulder and was trying those goofy icyhot patches. Results are inconclusive.

I have worn this dress to work, on a weekend for just running errands, and to a BBQ. At work, no one immediately said "oh, did you make that?" which I think is a good thing! At the BBQ, someone asked me where I got the dress, and when I said I made it, she asked me where I sold my clothes! Yikes! While in the future I would love to have an Etsy store or something, for now I am enjoying sewing for myself, at my own pace. 

I do think I will be making this pattern again. I need to play with the fit a bit- I made a muslin of this pattern of the size I would "normally" cut, and it was HUGE! I ended up cutting this dress two sizes smaller, and then shortened the shoulder area a bit because the neckline was too low for my comfort. Perhaps I can cut the top part a smaller size and then taper the skirt out a bit (the whole dress is only two pieces!)? I've never attempted an alteration like that but it seems like it could work. 

Skirt: Butterick 5466

Painting isn't all I do. You may remember that I got a new sewing machine for Christmas this year, and I have spent some time making not only grocery bags and placemats, but also dabbling in clothing. It's been a slow process of learning how to pick patterns that aren't too hard, picking fabric and getting all the little extras that make sewing easier. I've made a couple things in the past with my old machine, with varying degrees of success. 

Following some fashion blogs leaves my wish list for clothing ever expanding and my wallet ever thin. Sewing is really kind of a nice way to acquire some trendy things I see on blogs. This pink skirt is one I made a while ago...as you can see by the snow on the ground. I made it using bright pink bottom weight fabric from Joann's, which I bought for something like $4 a yard (and this particular pattern takes under 2 yards). I definitely bought this pattern on sale, for $1-2. 

Butterick 5466

I made the 4th version, the yellowy one. Full disclosure: Before I cut into my beloved pink fabric, I made a practice version, with the narrow waist band. I'm glad I did that, because I really wasn't a fan. I have since remade that skirt to be sans waistband. 

Don't mind the wrinkles. This is what happens when you wear clothing in real life

I really like this skirt, and I've actually used this pattern twice subsequently. I'll have to post pictures of those skirts as soon as I take them... I have quite a backlog of projects that I haven't photographed. oops.