C . W : Dress Patterns

Changing Wardrobes : 

Structured Dress Patterns : 5827 Versus 5853

Both of these patterns were brought while I was in Derby - but on separate visits to the market stall, about 2013-2015. This was one of my favourite stalls as they had a great collection of printed fabrics, patterns, and they often had swatches for pennies. Great for tests, mock up, illustrations, and research for sketchbooks. 

These two Butterwick patterns are of two very different styles of dresses in the construction and structure of them. 

The left pattern 5827 appears to be very simple with the option for contrasting fabrics and high keyhole opening. While its my favourite of the two the High neck and yoke  means this dress wouldn't be the most flattering for me. The length and fit with the dress could be very adaptable if you keep a lot of shape in the bodice. Depending on the intended outcome it would need to still look somewhat simple and modern still.

5853, on the right, is the pattern that would suit me better. A sweetheart neckline and defined waist  are much more flattering for me. I'd also feel more comfortable with picking more vibrant and patterned fabrics. While the bodice and skirt have more parts for the construction, as well as a sheer/stretch net neckline - I have sewn with more slippery blouse suitable fabrics. I feel  much more confident and don't feel this would stop me from creating something flattering and on a slightly higher difficulty level.

While I was a university student at the time of buying these two and its now that I'm more able to sew this style of dress with confidence and definitely needed - more space. I'd likely want to use my mint green sheer fabric (Leeds market stall) and use my white lace (brought from charity shop) for the body. The fabric for both would preferably be something with some body and structure to it, both could be made without a lining with fabrics that sit on the middle weight. However, you'd need to consider bias binding the edges, since no lining means the edges will need a tidy finish.

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C . W : Dress Patterns

G . O: Cross Stitching: Stitch Practicing

Getting On :

Cross Stitching : Stitch Practicing

I also picked up some Aida fabric when I bought the ribbon, I also choose to pick up some thick embroidery floss, in a dark royal blue colour. I got a little piece 27 x 30 cm in size. To practice properly on, its got a high density but as a scrap piece I bought to practice on I can't promise the size. 

So, I put this piece of Aida to use, along with the thick embroidery floss. Practicing a lot of different stitches, I also wanted to use this fabric scrap to add some interest and see how some stitches might 'couch' down the pieces of fabric on top of the Aida. I couched, I used a branching stitch, a petal stitch, and french knot. I also included a seeding stitch, straight stitch, and practiced filling in areas.

I think this looks quite sweet for a lot of practice stitches - the massive loop is a bad french knot that tied too quickly, but the floss is so grippy it is difficult to do such stitches. I have made a note to be careful with such stitches and embroidery floss. I do love the colour. I have enough to do several practices on this single piece of Aida. I look forward to some interesting colour combinations.

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G . O: Cross Stitching: Stitch Practicing

C . W : Patterns

Changing Wardrobes : 

Patterns : M6465 & 6868

I brought two patterns a while back, both suitable for every day wear and some work occasions. I brought these two together. I think the smarter design from New Look - probably, my favourite from the two. I like the smarter look and style of it. But like everyone I love to be comfortable

Also, I know this style will suit me more than the McCall's pattern, which would be more comfortable in general which a more relaxed style.

The McCall's pattern could give me more options to play with when picking out fabrics and designs.

I will have to explore my stash and see what I have in there! I'm really excited to try half sleeves that just cover the shoulder. This would give my arms more room for movement. I love the idea of the pleated  neckline for A, and pockets on the dress! However I have a skater dress with princess seams, that I have to finish themselves.

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C . W : Patterns