Charlie Caftan + Indiesew

Posted in Pattern Reviews by The Sara Project

Hey everyone! I’m super excited to share my latest make in collaboration with Indiesew. With summer practically here, I have been in need of a swimsuit cover-up. We have a little community pool that I foresee my three kids and I spending most of our time at over the next few months. With a new baby in tow, I probably won’t be in the pool very much, but more likely on the edge watching my other two littles swim. I needed something I could wear over my swimsuit that was cool and lightweight enough to wear while out in the sun and also functional for toddler/baby wrangling! I love the idea of a caftan, and I really love this slightly more structured version designed by the genius that is Heather Lou over at Closet Case Patterns. I give you the Charlie Caftan! I picked up my pattern from Indiesew.

This pattern is pretty quick to sew together. The hardest part was sewing in the front panel. I read a few reviews before making mine and most people suggested making a muslin first. (Whose got time for that!? Not me!). Let’s be honest, I wish I had time to make muslins but right now I’m lucky to even find 20 minutes of uninterrupted sew time. I pushed forward without a muslin and it wasn’t really that challenging. I would suggest using the sew-along to get a better visual of the steps though. Mine isn’t perfect but it works and I’m happy with it.

I sewed up a size 4 in view B with the ties and raised the v-neckline up by an inch with no other alterations. I used Indiesew’s Herringbone Rayon Navy Stripe fabric that is now sold out. I did have to do a little stripe matching on the front bodice (there’s not really a way out of it based on how the front panel piece goes in). Keep this in mind when choosing your fabric! This particular rayon had a looser weave and was super drapey making it challenging to get my stripes to match exactly. I took a tip from Allie Olsen (co-founder of Indiesew) and used starch to stiffen up the fabric a bit to get a better match. Thanks Allie!

I took this little cover-up along with me on a recent trip to Mexico. I loved wearing it and was hopeful in getting a few pictures of it for this post while visiting down there. I found this really cool tiled wall that worked great, but didn’t have as much success when trying to get some shots with the ocean behind me. Too much wind, sun, and bad angles haha. (It’s all about those good angles!!). I did manage to get this one my mom made me take with my seaweed crown, so there you go. Haha, thanks mom.

Thanks for reading along, and happy summer sewing to you! I’m really struggling to find time (and mostly energy) to get more sewing done right now. I want to really focus on sewing things I really need and want in my wardrobe, and at the pace that works best with a new baby and two toddlers (and a really busy husband). I do have a few things I’m hoping to find time for this summer, and I can’t wait to show you! I’ve spent a lot of time dreaming (both awake and asleep) of the things I want to make, and it’s really helped me focus and narrow down what items I really need in my wardrobe. In the mean time I’ve tried getting by on RTW items, but every time I go into a store to shop I really struggle to purchase things because I can afford to be picky about style, length, and fabric substrates used because I CAN make it exactly how I want on my own, and that feels pretty cool. So basically, time to suck it up, grab some caffeine, and make all the things!

Fabric and Pattern was provided by Indiesew for this post, but all opinions are my own.

TELIO + Peppermint Jumpsuit

Posted in Fabric Finds, Free Patterns by The Sara Project

Hey everyone! I’m slowly making my way back into the blogging sphere, and I’m kicking it off with a killer jumpsuit I made recently using TELIO’s tencel denim fabric. IT IS GOOD.

I’ve been wanting to make the Peppermint Jumpsuit by In The Folds for a while now (it’s a free pattern BTW) and instantly pictured it when I saw TELIO’s Tencel Denim fabric. I wanted to use a neutral color for my jumpsuit so I could wear it many different ways and throughout the whole year. The fabric I used is specifically TELIO’s tencel Denim, style 33862-01. (You can find it at Fabric.com). It has a super soft hand, and was easy to handle while sewing and cutting. I love the subtle sheen the face of the fabric has too, it adds a little richness to the look of the outfit.

As for the Peppermint Jumpsuit pattern, there were a few tweaks I had to make but it had pretty simple construction and was a fun pattern to put together. All of the instructions were super easy to follow and understand and the jumpsuit came together really quickly. Then I tried it on… the crotch was a lot lower than I had anticipated and the legs were super wide and long. I cut off a few inches along the hem (I wanted a slightly cropped look), and slightly took in the the outer and inner legs. As for the crotch, I brought it up as best I could but really should have just made a muslin first. Next time I will need to bring up the waist an inch or two to get the desired fit.

I don’t think I can pull off this look without the waist tie (like so many of you totally can!!), but I love how it looks with it added. I also love the layering factor. It’s great with an easy white tee underneath, and will work through the fall paired with a button up or thin sweater. I’m excited to try mixing it up with different tops.

You know I’m all for a good jumpsuit pattern and this one fits the bill. I’m excited to wear this a ton this spring, summer and fall. Thanks for reading along, and as always, happy sewing!

Head over to @teliofashion (on Instagram) to enter their giveaway to win 3 yards of this gorgeous fabric!!

Fabric was provided by Telio for this post, but all opinions are my own.

30Mar2018

Carolyn Pajamas and Cotton + Steel

Posted in Fabric Finds, Pattern Reviews by The Sara Project

I’m back! I’m a little over two weeks postpartum, and feeling really good. I did forget how very little sleep you get with a newborn, and that has been a bit of an adjustment. I’ve been itching to start sewing again over the past few months and I’ve finally found some time to make a few plans. Now, let’s just see if I can find the time to execute them!

On to this post! While I was browsing Cotton and Steel’s newest Rifle Paper Co. Collection, Amalfi, this floral print instantly caught my eye. I pictured a really gorgeous pair of Carolyn Pajamas with white piping, and there was no going back. Since I’ve had a lot of down time in the past few weeks, I thought I would make something a little nicer for when friends and family might stop by to visit the new baby, but I don’t quite feel like putting on real clothes. It’s also been nice to have something a little nicer to wear while I’ve been stuck in the house that feels a little more put together than sweats. (I’m a big believer in getting ready every day, and always feel so much more productive when I do).

I made these pajamas while I was still pregnant, and recruited my younger sister Laura to model the fit for me. I’m really grateful for my two sisters and their willingness to model all my handmade clothes for me while I was too large to even try them on!

I picked up a paper copy of this pattern from Indiesew. I made a size 6 based off of my bust measurement while at the end of my pregnancy. I would normally go with a size 4, and that’s what my sister should probably be wearing too. BUT I accounted for the fact that I won’t be a size 4 for a few more months (or many) and I hoped these would fit in the hospital (which they didn’t) and after the baby comes. I was able to fit into these about a week postpartum. It’s so hard to know what your body measurements are going to be after having a baby. I do like to wear things more loosely, so I don’t mind the idea of them being a little bit bigger once I get back to my pre-pregnancy size.

I love the silkiness of this rayon! It’s so soft against the skin, and light and airy to keep you cool at the same time. I chose to go with the short sleeve option for my top; I like this look for spring and summer. I also love that they button down the front which has been great for nursing.

This pattern came together easily. The pattern instructions were clear to understand, and I’m happy with the fit too. I will be adding one more button to my top, the neckline does fall down a little lower than I would like. (My sister has her top slightly pulled back in these photos). I didn’t make any adjustments to this pattern. I used pre-made piping that I purchased at Joann’s.

I’m totally into the pajama top trend happening right now. I tied my Carolyn Pajama top into a knot in front and paired it with high waisted jeans. I think this totally works for an everyday look. This basically takes secret pajamas to a whole new level: night to day in one shirt! What do you think?

Thanks for reading along and happy sewing!

Fabric for this post was provided by Cotton + Steel; pattern was provided by Indiesew, but all opinions are my own.

23Jan2018

Roscoe Blouse and Indiesew

Posted in Fabric Finds, Pattern Reviews by The Sara Project

Hey guys! It’s been a while. My belly is growing bigger by the minute it seems, and almost doesn’t even fit into my maternity clothes anymore. With just about 6-7 more weeks to go, I decided to start making things I can wear postpartum for spring. I’ve teamed up with Indiesew to bring you my newest top. I’ve had my eye on the Roscoe Blouse for quite some time, and I think it will be the perfect thing to wear after having a baby. It’s loose and flowy, and as I get my body back I can tuck it into some high waisted jeans for a more slimming look. I just love it! It would work great for those first few months of pregnancy too. (This pattern also comes in a dress version that I can’t wait to try next!).

So, this obviously isn’t me. Meet my sister Jenna! We’re close to the same size so I volunteered her to model this top to give you all a good idea of how it fits on the body. She is also expecting but lucky for her (and me) you can’t quite tell yet. We’re excited to have our babies just 4 months apart.

I sewed up a straight size 4 based off of my pre-pregnancy measurements. A lot of people said they sized down one size on this one but I decided not to. I did adjust the front neckline by bringing it up 1″ for extra coverage. Everything else is unchanged. Since I’m not sewing a ton right now I took my time by using nicer finishing techniques such as french seams and I also hand sewed the binding to finish the neckline and sleeve ends. I don’t like how my sleeve binding is a little wavy, maybe I’ll try to stitch in the ditch and see if that straightens it up a bit.

As far as this pattern goes, the instructions are super clear and easy to follow. This top is easy to put together with really stunning results. I’m kind of dying to pair this top with some black Lander Pants!!

The fabric I used is a rayon voile from Indiesew, and I love it sewn in the Roscoe Blouse. The fabric is light and drapey, and ever so slightly sheer and I love the geo daisy motif too! I’m really feeling a Madewell vibe (which I would say I get from ALL of Kelli’s patterns!!!). It’s going to be a great addition to my spring and summer wardrobe. I would totally recommend this fabric! If you are thinking about making a dress or skirt, I would recommend lining this fabric.

I’m really excited to also be teaming up with Victoria Emerson, a jewelry company, for this post. They specialize in really pretty wrap bracelets with boho style. I also fell in love with their watches. I love the white face and simple design. I will be wearing this watch a lot! (and they are ALL on sale right now! If you’re on the market for a watch, check them out). I picked out these two pieces to specifically match with this top. I love wearing small dainty bracelets and jewelry in general, and I know these will pair well with my style and wardrobe. I’m trying to pull more black into my accessories and clothing, and I love the addition of this little black leather watch. They have some really pretty watches with marble faces that I love too. Make sure to check them out! You can find my bracelet here.

It’s kind of killing me that I have to wait to wear this gorgeous top, but it’s like freezing outside anyways so it’s fine, right? Ughh. Thanks for reading along, and I hope you feel inspired to start sewing your spring wardrobe too!

The fabric and pattern for this post were provided by Indiesew, but all opinions are my own.

4Dec2017

Cheyenne Tunic with Indiesew

Posted in Pattern Reviews by The Sara Project

Every fall/ winter I aspire to sew up a button down (usually plaid) shirt. It’s such a great wardrobe staple, and something I reach for multiple times a week. This year I wanted to try the Cheyenne Tunic by Hey June Patterns.

Back in September I had the opportunity to meet up with some of my favorite sewing ladies in Denver for a little sewing retreat. It was here that the Cheyenne Tunic caught my eye. To be honest, I didn’t know it came with two views: tunic and button-down. I’d only ever known the pattern for it’s tunic style. As soon as Leslie and Adriana herself pointed out the button down option, I was sold. Allie from Indiesew brought a few fabric samples over to the house we were all staying out and took our fabric orders, and it was so fun to come home with this red and navy check fabric with the cheyenne tunic pattern too. Unfortunately, this fabric has since sold out from the Indiesew fabric shop.

When I first found out I was expecting, I felt a little overwhelmed by the thought of maternity sewing. I didn’t know how I would feel energy wise, and quite how to alter clothing to fit an ever growing waistline. After a few months of trying it out, I’m feeling a lot more confident in my abilities. Everything has worked out to fit (and I don’t ever muslin!) so that’s saying a lot. I spent a lot of time thinking about how to alter the pattern to fit my baby bump, but also to keep it looking like the original design. I brought this pattern to a girls sewing night here in Utah, and Heather of Heather Feather has the genius idea to simply add a little extra ease to the waistline, slightly straightening out the side seam. SO I found my widest measurement on the pattern, and added 1/2″, and graded the rest of the side seam to match. There’s a lot of ease in this pattern, I based my measurements off of the finished measurement on the pattern, and ended up sewing a size small. I also added 3″ in length to the button placket, front and back bodice pieces.

You guys, I was so nervous it wasn’t going to work, but numbers don’t lie. It’s a great fit at 18 weeks pregnant with lot’s of room to grow (but without too much room).

**Update, now I’m 25 weeks and it still fits great. Photos taken at 18 weeks.

I cut the center button placket, pockets and back yoke on the bias. Everyone always seems impressed by this but honestly it’s my way of having less pattern pieces to match. It kind of feels like cheating to be honest! It looks great, and I love the added contrast it adds. I also added 1/2″ around the pocket side and bottom edges to make them slightly bigger.

The pattern itself was seamless to sew. The instructions were very clear, and everything came together very smoothly. I’m excited to take this one in slightly at the side seams and shorten the hem to make it work for fall next year too, after the baby comes. I’m really focused on making garments that work for both maternity and non-maternity this time around. So far, so good.

I have to add, my beanie (the Delia Beanie) is also a pattern in the Indiesew Shop! It’s great for gifting too! This particular one was made and gifted to me by Erin of Sewbon.

Thanks for reading along, and honestly, if you don’t own either of these patterns yet, you should! They’re wardrobe staples. Happy sewing!!

Phototography by Hello Little Fish.

1Dec2017

Named Clothing Gemma Dress with Stylish Fabric

Posted in Fabric Finds, Pattern Reviews by The Sara Project

The holidays are finally here, and that calls for a fancy dress. Ever since I saw Named Clothing’s Gemma Dress in velvet, I’ve been wanting to try making a maternity version for myself. I couldn’t shake the idea out of my head so I decided to go for it. Honestly, I wasn’t sure how this was going to turn out. I’m happy to say, it worked! This pattern also comes with a sweatshirt variation that I’ll have to try post baby bump.

I picked a royal blue stretch velvet from Stylish Fabric for this dress. I cut my dress out along the less shiny-reflective side of the fabric. I have a lot going on so I figured it would be more flattering to NOT catch the light on every bulge along my body but now I wish I had cut it the other way around. I don’t think it would be so bad. I do like the darker blue color of the less shiny side I chose though.

A lot of people ask me for tips about working with stretch velvet. It’s basically very similar to sewing with a knit fabric. You can wash and dry it. Make sure to use a stretch stitch or serger when sewing with it. Be aware of what direction you are cutting out your pattern, one direction of the fabric is more reflective and the other not so much. There’s not a right or wrong way, just depends on your personal preference. This is my fourth stretch velvet project in the last year, you could say I’m a fan.

I picked a size based on my current bust measurement and added a little more length to the front skirt piece of the dress. I found it helpful to drape/stretch the fabric over my baby bump and see how much width I needed across, I ended up adding 2 1/2″ to the waistline. This is what my pattern piece looked like after my modifications:

I’m not sure if that’s the BEST way to do it, but it worked really well for me. Just measure around your widest part and find it on the pattern piece based off of where the waist is marked. I’m currently 25 weeks along, and there’s still room to grow in this dress. I didn’t make any modifications to the back pattern pieces.

I sewed everything together according to the directions. When you get to steps 8 & 9 I would recommend basting the pieces together first and once you match up your seams (it may take a few attempts) sew a straight stitch at regular stitch length just over the matched seams, and then serge the whole seam. This was the hardest part of the whole project for me.

My hip measurements are a lot smaller than the size 8 measurements, but I didn’t adjust the pattern at all. I sewed up the side seams as they were, and then fitted the dress exactly how I wanted it at the side seams, and sewed them up again. I wasn’t sure how everything was going to fit overall, I ended up taking another 1/2″ out of the bodice side seams and sleeves, plus the extra fabric that I needed to take off at my hips. It worked great. I also lowered the back slit by 3″ for more coverage.

Thanks for reading along, and happy holiday season everyone!

6Nov2017

Blush Fabric Tour

Posted in Fabric Finds by The Sara Project

I was so excited when Dana of @made_everyday asked me to be part of her Blush fabric tour. I knew I would make something for my daughter, and I let her pick what fabric she liked best. The Cat Nap Pink was her first choice of course, pink + cats= no brainer. I decided to go with the knit option and pictured an easy dress.

Art Gallery Fabric knits are soooo soft. When I was cutting out this dress, I seriously just wanted to wrap myself up in this fabric. I went with the Millie Dress Pattern by Mix It Make It. My daughter only requests to wear dresses lately so I thought this would be a great addition to her wardrobe for preschool and church. I’ve made this dress once before. It’s a free pattern but unfortunately it’s not currently available. There’s word it will be relaunched soon, so keep your eye out! For reference, I made the size 4 and added 3 1/2″ in length to the skirt.

We both love this dress so so much. My daughter has plans to wear it as many days in a row that she can get away with. She even woke up super late at night after I finished it to take a peek. Ahhh, I love making things for her.

Check out all of the other fun prints that are also part of the Blush collection below!

I also included this video I found of Dana explaining the inspiration behind her new collection, check it out! Thanks for having me on the tour Dana!

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