First up is a couple of pairs of leggings. These are the 'Lelle' leggings from Ottobre Winter 6/2008. They are really simple - only one pattern piece with an elasticated waist and hemmed with a twin needle. It's really nice not to have to faff around matching stripes down the outside leg of these. These are both a size 92, however I didn't pre-shrink my fabric and the stripey one's have shrunk in the wash - they still fit though (phew!).
Next up is the 'Elly' raglan sleeve top, also from Ottobre Winter 6/2008. This was my first time shirring and after a couple of failed attempts because of not stretching the elastic enough when winding the bobbin, it all seemed to come together really well. It is so much fun - expect to see many more shirred tops in the future.
This white one was my 'practice' version but turned out to be my favourite. Despite it being THE most impractical colour, I absolutely love white on kids - it makes them look so angelic and babyish (big sigh).
For version number two I didn't have any matching ribbing and when it was complete the neckhole was too small for a head to fit through so I had to cut down the back and add a placket with a button and elastic loop.
The next top is the 'Puffy' top from Ottobre Spring 1/2008. This top turned out ok but I was a bit disappointed with the neckline. If I make this again I will definitely use ribbing because it turned out all stretched and wavy without it. It doesn't look as bad on as it does on the hanger, but it could definitely be better. I love the navy and white stripes with the aqua blue though.
With all this sewing time I'm also giong to finish up some of the projects that got started but not finished for one reason or another. Here's a sneaky peek at the first of my unfinished projects.
Shirring is tricky to get right. Another method is to use regular thread in both the spool and the bobbin. Use a zig-zag stitch to stitch over a length of shirring elastic (I feed my elastic throughmy narrow-hem foot to keep it straight...check out what feet come with your machine and see if any of them can "help" you). The tricky bit is to stitch over the elastic and not on it, as afterwards you pull the elastic to the stretchiness that you want and knot or stitch the ends ...rather than trying to control bobbin elastic tension.
ReplyDeleteGreat sewing Melinda. I am impressed with your binding. I assume sewing all of those knits that you have an overlocker. I am so afraid of sewing knits,but yours look great.
ReplyDeleteAlso nice to see some other patterns from the Ottobre magazines. Thanks for your lovely comments about Eddie's coat.