Summer Sewing

I don't know what it is about me and summer. All winter long I complain and shiver - hoping for the sunny days...but when they come, I feel like I'm  always looking the wrong way. While other  people are swimming and eating soft-serve ice-cream -  I find myself hunched over my sewing machine in the heat, spinster bun firmly in place. It might be kind of sad, except it is so clearly my choice.

I've been sewing clothes this summer, exploring the world of textile beyond cotton, and I have to say...I've been enjoying myself! I'm  not going to lie and say that sewing clothing is always 'easy-peasy'...that you can turn out flawless items with a little on-line help. Or that the results are better than you could buy. I'm  not oblivious to the quirks of a homemade garment. Really. I won't be offended if you ask me, "Did you make that?

BUT! There is extreme satisfaction in making something you can wear. So...really. You should try it!

Here are some links to free on-line patterns, and pictures to urge you onward.

At least I really hope they do!

http://sweet-verbena.blogspot.ca/2011/06/very-simple-skirt-tutorial.html

Pro: The simplest, fastest skirt I've ever made.  Truly.

Con: Elastic waist. It always needs a belt.

http://sweet-verbena.blogspot.ca/2012/06/color-block-tank-dress-tutorial.html

Pro: Pockets!

Con: A little bulky around the waist

http://www.modabakeshop.com/2009/06/summer-swing-skirt.html

Pro: Funky - and the tutorial allows you to create a skirt to your preferred length.

Con: Nothing - except perhaps the gathering involved.

 

http://individualrivalry.blogspot.co.uk/2012/04/its-here-diy-maxi-skirt-tutorial.html

Pro: Simple. The 3' elastic waist is a great idea and very comfortable.

Con: Depending on the material you use, the long seams can pucker. It also takes quite a bit of little by little altering to make it fit just right.

http://www.connectingthreads.com/patterns/Kimono_Robe_Pattern_Download__D991495.html

Pro: Easiest tutorial ever! And a joy to pick out the fabric!!

Con: If you choose satin material...bring some patience to the project as well! Also - this project may ellicit sniggers comments from  family members.

  

What do you think? Let me know if you try any of these projects yourself!

 

~Liv