The “Anne” Blouse

Guess what? I finally made something! OMG!!! Yes folks, it’s been a while. Far, far too long. Over a month. And not for lack of inspiration or desire to create. Nope, I’ve got lots of plans, lots of patterns, lots of fabric. Just not a lot of time. But hey, my new rule – 5 minutes sewing a day. Eventually, things get completed. Eventually.

So here it is – my first creation for the WSBN Burda Sew-along – the ‘Anne’ blouse!

Which also happens to be my first-ever creation from a Burda magazine. Yes, when I unfolded the pattern sheet, I got scared. And when I looked at the (pathetic) instructions, I got even more scared. But I pulled on my big-girl pants, stepped up to the tracing challenge, and you know what? It really wasn’t that hard! Not hard at all, in fact. (Once I discovered that the numbers down the bottom of the sheet show you where to look for each correlating pattern piece, so you don’t have to sift through all the text on the pattern sheet trying to spot pattern piece number 8 and so on. Wish I’d discovered that a bit earlier on in the tracing journey, but hey, now I know for next time.)

In fact, it was so not-hard, I’ve already traced out my next pattern to make up. And have plans for more. (Seriously folks, if you’ve been putting off sewing from a Burda magazine for fear of the tracing, fear not. It’s no where near as hard as it looks. Go on – get brave and give it a go!)

So, this blouse, It’s pattern number #122 from the October 2012 edition of Burda Style. And here’s where I’d like to give a big thank-you to Anne, who sent me this magazine as part of a swap we did. Thanks Anne! 🙂

I choose this blouse because of the yoke – it’s rather interesting. I found it hard to tell from the image (and even harder to tell from the instructions) but the yoke is hanging free on two sides, and stitched in to the shoulder and sleeve seams on the other two. It’s also not quite the same shape/size as the neckline, so you have a subtle double-layer effect where they overlap. (I had to go hunting for made-up versions of this over on Burdastyle to be sure about this, the instructions were that poor.)

There are darts in front and back for shaping, and with no collar either it’s a very easy blouse to make up. (It still took me a good week-and-a-half to make, but hey, like I said earlier, 5 minutes sewing a day will get you there. Eventually.)

The original design is about 6-7 inches longer – I shortened it so I can wear it out over skirts. I also shortened the sleeves, simply because I didn’t have enough fabric for long sleeves. (*cough* design decision *cough*) Now here is where things got a bit frustrating – I made this up in the right size for my measurements. And it was far too big. (Except across the shoulders, where it fits fine.) I’m wondering if this is because I’m used to sewing with vintage patterns, and modern patterns have far more ease? Those of you who sew from Burda magazines – do you find they have far more ease than you need? Or is it perhaps just this one pattern?

(Now I look at the picture again, it does seem to be intentionally a bit loose. Hmmm…. Should look more closely at that next time.)

Anyway, I took it in by over an inch on each side seam at the waist, tapering up to the sleeves and down to the hem. I think it’s still a bit loose, but I’m not 100% sure – it feels loose, but my Other Half is of the opinion that it fits fine. I’d like a second opinion here folks – should I take it in a bit more, or leave it as it is? Be honest here!

I made a couple of changes in the construction methods as well. When it comes to the free-hanging yoke, the instructions don’t ask you to sew up the section that lies next to the neckline. Instead, you’re just meant to turn the seam allowance under and leave it. Um, what? I ignored that. Rather, I folded the yoke pieces in half, right sides together, stitched up that seam, turned them out the right way again, and then went back to following the instructions. Nice and neatly stitched together, and no visible stitching. Easy as.

I also choose to use domes instead of buttons. Because sewing with a hammer is fun. And I get to feel like Superman when I get changed at night. The fun in feeling like Superman at the end of the day cannot be underestimated. I urge you all to sew with hammers, make a top that does up with domes, and give it a try. Seriously, go and do it!

So, there we have it. The Anne blouse. My first ever Burda magazine creation. I’m rather pleased with it, even if I’m not yet convinced by the fit. And on that note, excuse me – I’m off to trace another pattern. Happy sewing, folks! 🙂

Show Us Your Stash – Mrs C!

The Swap Your Stash month that Anne and I were hosting is now at an end. We hope you enjoyed swapping, and getting peeks into the stashes of fellow sewists/hoarders!

To round out the month, here’s one more stash reveal interview for your viewing pleasure. This time, I’d like you to give a warm welcome to that friendly fount of sewing and fitting knowledge, Mrs C!

Alright Mrs C, we’re all curious. Show us your stash!

How long have you been sewing and stashing? How big is your stash?
I’ve been sewing for 35 years. I’ve been stashing for most of that. If I hadn’t ruthlessly culled on several, ok many, occasions, I’d be buried in fabric! 🙂 I estimate I have around 1,000 metres of fabric.

Where do you keep your stash? How do you store it?
I keep it in those tall two door cupboards you get flat pack from hardware stores. I fold it and stack it flat on the shelves. I’ve tried bins and drawers and all kinds of things but THIS works brilliantly. I just open the doors and there it all is, easy to see. The stuff at work is stacked folded in some lundia shelving in my office. Not so good but it adds colour to the space!

What is the oldest piece in your stash? What was your original plan for this piece and why hasn’t it happened?
Hmm, can I cheat and tell a story about a piece I have already used? I bought a piece of dupion silk in 1983. It was old gold shot with purple and I fell for it. I also bought a piece of purple niedeck velvet to go with it. My intention was to make a gown for my graduation ball, in 1987! But, I graduated ad eundem in 1991 so no big ball for me. Over the years, I tried to sell it to various clients but it was never right. The velvet was used in a gorgeous dress I made for a redhead in 1991. In the end, I needed something to go with the deep purple silk/rayon velvet I bought for my wedding dress and realised this was what it was destined for. 20 years from when I bought it, it went into the most important dress I have ever made. Cool eh! Am I forgiven for subverting the question? 😉

What’s your favourite piece in your stash? Where did you get it, what do you love about it, what do you think you might do with it?
No fair, that’s like asking which is my favourite child??!! But I would have to say it is a piece of embroidered silk I bought in Cirencester, England. It’s the colour of paper bags with red flowers scrolling over it. The design for my tattoo was taken directly off it. So I must love it! I love it because I am a sucker for red and gold, and I love viny patterns immensely. It was actually one of three similar fabrics I bought but it is my fave. I have absolutely not the first clue what to do with it – except to own it, which I feel is a thing in itself, no?

Does the fabric you buy go straight into hiding or do you wash it first?
I wash all the washables first before putting them away. I learned this early on – nothing is more tedious than having a massive surge of productive energy and having to wait while the fabric washes and dries!

How do you add to your stash? Do you buy with a purpose in mind, or is it fabric lust?
This has changed a lot over the years. As my disposable income increased, my fabric buying took off. I know for a fact that I spent over $5,000 on fabric, quilting and notions in 2011 because I added it all up. Horrifying! So a LOT went to Fabricabrac and now I tend to buy for two reasons – one is that a piece is such a signature fabric for me I want to invest in it. Hence all the embroidered silks. The other is because I have a specific pattern in mind, and that is why I bought the last 7 lengths of fabric, 3 of which are underway or completed.

Do you have something in your stash that you cannot bear to cut into? Why?
I actually have been known to replace fabric in my stash when I’ve used it! Admittedly that is generally quilting cottons – some of those fabrics are incredibly useful! I am pretty fearless though – it comes from making wedding dresses out of $500m laces – you have to get over it. 🙂 Having said that I do have a few pieces I just love for their own sake and as so far I don’t know what to do with them, I’m really reluctant to cut them up.

Do you just stash fabric, or does the problem include patterns and notions?
Problem? What problem? (de nile de nil de nile) Used to include patterns, as having sewn for others mostly, I needed a huge range *coughexcusecough* but as these days I don’t really sew for other people much except the husband and family, preferring to make people quilts, I’ve gotten rid of most of them and now I only have 80 or so. I used to collect buttons and ribbons and trims but hey, now it’s my JOB to buy that good stuff so I don’t feel the need!

Have you decided to do a “stash-busting” resolution this year? If so, what have you decided to do?
Nope, sorry but it’s not me. I have over the years slowed my buying down – reinvesting the income from selling fabric into bits I really love and want to own. But as many of them still haven’t revealed their purpose, I’m in no hurry to force the issue. Hey, the 20 year silk, remember? I’m playing a long game here! 🙂 But you have to put this into the context that my stash is 50% quilting fabric, 20% soft furnishing type fabrics, 20% vintage laces and fabrics for wedding dresses and the last 10% only is apparel type fabric. So while I own a LOT of fabric, not so much for frocking up. Mind you even that 10% will keep me covered up for many years to come 🙂 Unless I fall out of love with it and it ends up at a fabric swap of course!

Wow, that’s one impressive stash! Thanks so much for showing it to us (and that glimpse at your sewing machine, it looks like a beauty!).

Well folks, that rounds up our Show Us Your Stash interviews. Anne and I hope you enjoyed them! We certainly enjoyed “interviewing” the lovely ladies who participated (and I don’t know about you, but I’m not feeling quite as bad about my stash now – it’s nice to know I’m not alone with fabric hoarding, haha!).

Want to make sure you haven’t missed any of the stash reveal posts? Here’s where you can find them all:

• Anne from Mercury Handmade Fashion
• Anne from Pretty Grievances
• Pia from The Overflowing Stash
• I got brave and showed off my stash as well
• Johanna from Making It Well shared her stash and her thoughts on it
• Juliet from The Crazy Gypsy Chronicals
• Rachel from House of Pinheiro
• Ginger from Ginger Makes
• Diane from Marguerite Designs
• Debi from My Happy Sewing Place
• Lizzy from SewBusyLizzy
• Becky from Sew And So

Show Us Your Stash – Debi!

Time for another stash reveal interview, and I bet most of you know who today’s guest is! Hint: she loves 1940’s style, McCalls, and lives in Scotland.

Yep, it’s Debi from My Happy Sewing Place!

Wanna take a look at her stash? (Spoiler alert – there’s lots of lovely fabric in it!)

So, Debi, how long have you been sewing and stashing? How big is your stash?

I’ve been sewing since November 2009. Though I must admit that I was stashing for about a year or two before then—that was in my sewing contemplation phase… lol! My current stash is just the right size! I can store it all in two cupboards and two drawers and ‘shop’ in it whenever I am starting a new project.

Where do you keep your stash? How do you store it?

I divide my stash into three types of fabrics: 1) non-wool dress fabrics, 2) wool fabric and 3) lining fabric. I store my non-wool dress fabrics in my closet—in one large pile! I regularly go through the pile and refold, etc.

Non-wool fabric stash

The wool fabric (and a few VIP cottons) I store in a vintage cabinet that has a very tight door (with a lock! Hahaha). I regularly check the wool and just love thinking through projects for the wool fabrics.

Wool fabric stash

My smallest stash is lining fabrics, almost all of which I picked up at charity shops. I have them stored in a small drawer because they are so slippy and don’t play well in the larger pile.

What is the oldest piece in your stash? What was your original plan for this piece and why hasn’t it happened?

This question was a good excuse to go through all my fabric! Let’s see… I think one of my oldest is a piece (just over 1 metre) of gold dupioni silk. I was originally planning to make a halter top with the gold fabric to go with a black velvet skirt. It has, however, lingered in my sewing queue for a long time because summer sewing is the last thing on my mind these days!

Gold Silk Dupioni fabric

What’s your favourite piece in your stash? Where did you get it, what do you love about it, what do you think you might do with it?

My favourite piece is about 4 metres of a 1940’s cotton print that I got when I visited the States last November. I still can’t believe I found it and that there was such a large amount of it. It’s going to be made into a 1940 McCall dress! I even have the perfect pattern…I’ve just got a few other projects planned first.

1940’s cotton print fabric

Does the fabric you buy go straight into hiding or do you wash it first?

Fabric goes straight into hiding. I never wash it first…. I like to do all of that when I am starting my projects.

How do you add to your stash? Do you buy with a purpose in mind, or is it fabric lust?

I almost always buy with a project in mind. I’m a pattern gal—I have to start with the pattern and then find the perfect fabric. Sometimes it goes the other way around (fabric first, then pattern) but that’s very unusual. I do, however, pick up anything I find that is reasonably priced in charity shops (I’ve gotten a lot of my wool this way), especially if it’s enough length to make a dress or a suit.

Do you have something in your stash that you cannot bear to cut into? Why?

There’s nothing in my stash that I cannot bear to cut into—I will use it all!!!

Do you just stash fabric, or does the problem include patterns and notions?

Um, next question…..lol. Yes, I collect patterns. I’m currently trying to collect and sew all the patterns the McCall Corporation produced in the year 1940 (which is more than a few!). I also have a thing for 1928 McCall patterns, Style and Style Print patterns from the 40s and 50s and Butterick one-yard line patterns. I also have quite a few notions — mostly gifts and charity shop finds.

Have you decided to do a “stash-busting” resolution this year? If so, what have you decided to do?

I did sign up to use my stash fabrics in at least 10 projects this year but honestly, I’ll probably replace those fabrics fairly quickly. I actually really like having a stash of ‘hopefuls’. All my fabrics, notions and patterns have ideas, plans, inspiration and wonderful friends and family associated with them. Even though my sewing queue is a million miles long, I really enjoy the planning process and having fabric I can feel and touch and plan with is part of the fun for me.

Plus, I love having fabric for swaps….speaking of which, I’m joining the stash swap with the following two fabrics…

The first one is nearly 5 metres of a fabulous cotton lawn fabric. It’s lightweight and slightly transparent and would be fabulous for some summer dresses.

Printed cotton lawn

The second fabric is a synthetic wool-like fabric in a great pumpkin tweed-like design. I made a dress out this fabric. There is 2 metres of this one:

Wool-Like Fabric

I’m looking to swap for either polka-dot or solid coloured dress fabrics (3-4 yards). Thanks so much, Kat, for having me as part of the stash post series!!

Thanks so much for opening up your sewing room and showing off your stash, Debi! I must admit, I’m drooling a bit over quite a lot of those ones I can see in your cupboards. Especially all those gorgeous woolens, yum! I’ll be waiting with baited breath to see which 1940 McCall patterns they get turned into.

I’m also very interested in the cotton lawn you have to swap, so I’m gonna go hunt through my stash for things to swap for it now…..! 😉

Interested in Debi’s swap fabric? Let us know below!

Speaking of swaps, Swap Your Stash month is nearly at an end, so if you’re still thinking about taking part, now’s the time! There’s still a bunch of pretty things up for swaps on the Pinterest board.

And with the end of Swap Your Stash month will also come the end of the stash reveal interviews. Don’t panic too much though – there’s one more to come! Want to guess who it might be? She’s always full of lovely and helpful suggestions and tips, is following her passion with her own business, and doesn’t own any Apple products. Tune in later this week for the stash-showing!

Show Us Your Stash – Diane!

Guess what folks? It’s time for another Stash Reveal interview! This time, we’re having a peek at the stash of Diane, who blogs over at Marguerite Designs.

Diane makes things out of pretty, pretty fabric. And she not only sews, but she’s a knitter as well! She’s thinking about doing a ‘knit weekly’ series this year, trying out a new stitch each week and posting about it. Want to learn about some more knitting stitches? Keep an eye on her blog for when that series starts.

So, Diane, give us the details…!

How long have you been sewing and stashing? How big is your stash?
Always, but it kind of magnified when I followed Sew Weekly and I actively started to hunt stuff out.

Lots of lovely fabric and craft things on shelves

Where do you keep your stash? How do you store it?
Well it was in a cardboard box, but it grew so much recently that last year I bought a set of bookshelves in a sale and I now stack stuff on the shelves keeping scraps in a big blue laundry bag at the side of it.

A big bag of scraps

What is the oldest piece in your stash? What was your original plan for this piece and why hasn’t it happened?
A piece of navy silk with a small pattern in golds and red. I didn’t really have a plan, I just liked it and it was in a sale – my first piece of something really special and I even remember the cost, about £3 and I bought it with holiday money. But it’s not really big enough for anything in particular – maybe a waistcoat lining?

The oldest piece in the stash

What’s your favourite piece in your stash? Where did you get it, what do you love about it, what do you think you might do with it?
At the moment, some Liberty paisley in pinks. I got it in the John Lewis (famous UK store) sale. I just love the colours and the fine printing. I’m going to make another Liverpool shirt with it (an Amy Butler pattern).

Pretty Liberty paisley

Does the fabric you buy go straight into hiding or do you wash it first?
I wash it on my machine’s short 1/2 hour cycle, so it’s ready for use when I need to.

How do you add to your stash? Do you buy with a purpose in mind, or is it fabric lust?
If it’s a bargain and an irresistible print, then I’ll get some … I actually look for it now! I know I’ll use it somewhere along the line …

Do you have something in your stash that you cannot bear to cut into? Why?
I did … it’s done now … it was a gift from my dad’s friend and I was scared I’d ruin it … a silver embroidered tunic … but after about 8 months of weekly sewing, I just went for it.

Do you just stash fabric, or does the problem include patterns and notions?
Oh, it’s patterns as well now …. I work not far from a department store with a haberdashery department where you can browse through the pattern books. Fatal at lunchtime, plus there are two charity shops on the way where I’ve found some gems.

Have you decided to do a “stash-busting” resolution this year? If so, what have you decided to do?
I’m trying to be a bit more thoughtful about what will match with other things I’ve got, as well as think about what’s missing in my wardrobe. Haven’t really made a resolution … just thinking about it at the moment (but I know I won’t be able to pass up on something truly wonderful).

I have a length of fabric to swap if anyone’s interested. It’s a waxed African print in yellow and purple. Quite stiff and starchy because of the waxing. The piece is 120cm x 160 cm.

African wax print, up for swaps!

Well, that’s about it where my fabric is concerned. I could do exactly the same with my wool and card making things!

Thanks for the glimpse of your stash Diane! 🙂

(Here’s where I admit – Diane did have some other fabric to swap, but I nabbed it. Sorry!)

If you’re interested in swapping for that length of waxed African print (which looks pretty fabulous!) let Diane know in the comments below so she can get in touch and see what you want to swap for it.

Want to see some other stashes? Two more have gone up in the past few days:

• Becky over at Sew-and-So
• And here’s SewBusyLizzy’s stash

And just in case you missed any, here are the others in the series so far:

• Anne from Mercury Handmade Fashion
• Anne from Pretty Grievances
• Pia from The Overflowing Stash
• I got brave and showed off my stash as well
• Johanna from Making It Well shared her stash and her thoughts on it
• Juliet from The Crazy Gypsy Chronicals
• Rachel from House of Pinheiro
• Ginger from Ginger Makes

What’s that you say? You want to see even more? Well, you might just be in luck – come on back in a couple of days and see who’s stepped forward to show us their stash! (Hint: it’s a vintage loving lady this time!)

Show Us Your Stash – Ginger!

Guess what folks? We have another lovely sewing blogger, happy to let us indulge in a bit of nosiness by showing off their stash! Yay! I’d like you to give a warm welcome to….

Ginger of Ginger Makes!

If you’re not familiar with Ginger, you should go and check out her blog. She makes the cutest things, including what is probably my favourite ever version of the Anise jacket (seriously, check out that gorgeous lining!) She also has a pug dog, which just makes everything cuter, really. 😉

Alright then Ginger, are you ready? Here’s some questions for you!

How long have you been sewing and stashing? How big is your stash?

I’ve been sewing just under two years and began stashing shortly thereafter. It’s not crazy huge, but it’s too big for my NYC apartment.

Shirt/top fabrics

Where do you keep your stash? How do you store it?

I keep my fabric rolled up neatly and stacked inside three dresser drawers. One drawer is designated for top weights, one for dress weights, and one for bottom weights.

Dress-weight fabrics

What is the oldest piece in your stash? What was your original plan for this piece and why hasn’t it happened?

This is a silly answer, but it’s a bunch of corduroy that I bought intending to make neckties for my brothers and coworkers. I didn’t realize that it would be really hard to press sharp points in corduroy, and that they would be super bulky. I thought the boys would look so hip, but I’m sure they wouldn’t have worn them (not even to humor me!). The pieces are too small for a skirt, so I should probably get rid of them.

Corduroy intended for a bunch of ULTRA-COOL skinny ties

What’s your favourite piece in your stash? Where did you get it, what do you love about it, what do you think you might do with it?

My favorite, without a doubt, is an ikat from B&J Fabrics. I just love it! The colors and the weave are so cool, even if ikat is a trend that’s probably already over. I bought it last May and spent more cash on it than on anything else in my stash, so I struggled with deciding on a perfect pattern! I’m 95% certain that it’s going to become a Robe Belladone this spring.

Ikat from B&J Fabrics

Does the fabric you buy go straight into hiding or do you wash it first?

I wash it first so I can dive in right away and start cutting when I have the time and urge to start a new project!

Fabric for skirts/shorts/trousers

How do you add to your stash? Do you buy with a purpose in mind, or is it fabric lust?

I try to buy fabric with a specific purpose in mind (i.e., I need a dress to wear to a wedding in March), but like any fabricaholic, I get seduced by gorgeous fabric and occasionally HAVE to buy a piece that I don’t have a plan for. 🙂

Do you have something in your stash that you cannot bear to cut into? Why?

Oh, gosh, I have this gorgeous Liberty lawn that I bought in July 2011 at the London store. I must have spent an hour in the store agonizing over which print to choose! It’s so soft, luxe, and pretty that I haven’t been able to work up the guts to use it! Honestly, I’m glad that I didn’t cut it up right away since my sewing skills definitely weren’t up to par and I almost certainly would’ve ruined it.

Liberty lawn… yummy!

Do you just stash fabric, or does the problem include patterns and notions?

I’ve accumulated a fair amount of patterns, probably about the same number as I have stashed fabrics. I pick up matching thread and zippers when I buy fabric, so those hang around in my collection until I get around to making something.

Hey, I never said that EVERYTHING fit into the drawers! Ugh, I’m
buried under bags of scraps and odds & ends!

Have you decided to do a “stash-busting” resolution this year? If so, what have you decided to do?

I’m participating in Cindy’s Stashbusting Sewalong and I pledged to use six pieces of stash fabric. That’s a pretty easy goal, so I’m hoping to surpass it and make a big dent in my stash this year. Aside from my monthly Mood Sewing Network fabric allowance, I’m avoiding fabric shopping so I won’t be tempted to buy stuff! I’ve gone through my stash ruthlessly and only kept fabric that I love, so I want to see some of those pieces come to life! I also really want to find a way to use, recycle, or thrift scraps– they pile up so quickly and I don’t know what to do with them!

Thank you so much for letting us peek in your stash, Ginger! Can’t wait to see what you do with some of those pretty, pretty fabrics, including that ikat (which will never go out of style, as far as I’m concerned!) and that grey fabric with birds you’ve got stashed away in your tops drawer!

Want to sneak a look at some other people’s stashes? Here’s a few you can check out if you haven’t seen them already:

• Anne from Mercury Handmade Fashion
• Anne from Pretty Grievances
• Pia from The Overflowing Stash
• I got brave and showed off my stash as well
• Johanna from Making It Well shared her stash and her thoughts on it
• Juliet from The Crazy Gypsy Chronicals
• Rachel from House of Pinheiro

Want to see even more? Stay tuned – Anne and I have a few more stash reveal interviews lined up during February as part of Swap Your Stash month!

Speaking of which – we’re into the last half of February now, so if you’re wanting to swap some of your stash goodness for other things that you’re more likely to use, best hop to it soon! There’s still plenty to be swapped, you can read all about it over here.

Swap My Stash – Fabric (part 2)

Yep, I did it again. I went through (part of) my fabric stash and pulled out some more things to swap as part of Swap Your Stash month!

The following are up for grabs. If there’s anything you’re interested in, let me know in the comments below, and we’ll see about arranging a swap. 🙂 (I’m keen on swapping for patterns, particular 1940s and 1950s ones, and fabric in bold and/or bright colours, cute prints, and natural fibres.)

First up, a slinky knit of something synthetic, in celery stripes. (Celery green, olive green, yellowy-beige, white and black stripes.) TAKEN!

Celery stripe – showing almost the full length of fabric so you can see all the stripe pattern

Celery stripe, detail with tape measure for comparison.

This piece measures 122 cm by 64 cm. Stripes run from selvedge to selvedge, and the stretch runs the same way. (There is a bit of stretch across the stripes as well, but nowhere near as much as along them.) I have used part of this in the past, so one end is a little uneven – the measurements are excluding the uneven parts, across the narrowest part.

Next up, a forest green crepe-like fabric, once again something synthetic, although I don’t know what.

Forest green crepe

This one measures 112 cm by 120 cm.

Third is another knit – a tan coloured slinky knit (once again, I have no idea of fibre content – sorry!), with gathered sections dotted all over it. TAKEN!

Tan knit

Tan knit. This is a lot closer to the real life colour.

The slinky brown measures 145 cm (across the stretch) by 148 cm.

A pretty seersucker, in a soft pinky-white, with cute little flowers all over it. TAKEN!

Floral seersucker

This floral seersucker measures 174 cm by 112 cm.

Here’s another floral, this time in a tshirting fabric. And yet again, I don’t know fibre content. (Argh!) There’s a fair bit of stretch, and I suspect this one is a cotton, or has a lot of cotton in it, as it doesn’t bounce back as well as a synthetic would. The floral-like pattern is printed on the top, rather than woven in. TAKEN!

Floral knit

Floral knit measures 165 cm (same way as the stretch) by 125 cm.

And last in this lot is a orange something-or-other, with lines and checks all over it. It’s got an interesting texture to it, a bit soft and scrunchy all at once. A good weight and drape for a dress. TAKEN!

The orange check measures 150 cm by 200 cm.

So there we have it, some more fabric up for swapsies! Interested in any? Let me know in the comments and we’ll see what sort of swap we can arrange. 🙂

Got a bunch of things in your own stash you no longer love or don’t think you’ll ever use? Help them find a new home and swap for things you do like in return – take part in Swap Your Stash! Been thinking about taking part? You’ve got two weeks left, so hop to it folks!

Want to see what else people are swapping? You can browse the list of participants, or have a look on the Pinterest board.

Show Us Your Stash – Juliet!

Wanna get a sneak peek behind the scenes, and see someone else’s stash? Go on – you know you want to! (I know I want to, haha!)

The lovely Juliet from The Crazy Gypsy Chronicles was kind enough to be interviewed about her stash, and spill the beans on how she caterogises her fabric, and her recipie for home-made washing detergent.

So, Juliet, tell us – how long have you been sewing and stashing? How big is your stash?

I have been sewing for two years now, but my stashing goes back mush further than that! With my Mum’s job as a pattern maker and seamstress I was in a fabric store very often, so even before I was interested in sewing there has been a love for, and collection of, fabric. It’s only since I started sewing that I really started properly collecting!

My stash has a grand total of 60 pieces of garment sized lenghts of fabric, filling 5 boxes. This is not including linings, and a whole load of saved scraps – I learned the hard way early on about scraps, but even then I struggle to sometimes let go of pretty fabric!

Sewing space

Where do you keep your stash? How do you store it?

I’m lucky enough to have a room for sewing in, so my stash is mostly found here, but on any given day of the wee some of it is likely to have spilleed into our bedroom, lounge, dining room, washroom…

I store my stash in an old office filing cabinet, which has drawers at the bottom, filled with boxes that hold the fabric according to fibre. I used to organise it by colour, but my huge collection of blues and greens meant that it overflowed often. I have categorised very vaguely – silks, cottons, knits, wools (including knits), and synthetics (a very small count). And I have one lonely length of linen, which has been added to the cotton to keep it company!

Filing cabinet of sewing lovliness

What is the oldest piece in your stash? What was your original plan for this piece and why hasn’t it happened?

Oh, that’s hard! As far as I can tell, my oldest piece is this cotton twill with mustard, forest green and ruby stripes intersecting themselves – which is actually on its way to Kat herself as part of the swap. (Kat says “yay!!”) I’ve had it since I was a teenager, and I always imagined it as a blazer, but I never quite felt I could have done it justice, so it started the stash!

The oldest piece in the collection

What’s your favourite piece in your stash? Where did you get it, what do you love about it, what do you think you might do with it?

My favourite is actually a bit kooky – it’s some crazy tribal print linen, it’s medium-heavy weight, I suppose, but I saw it and HAD TO HAVE IT. Clearly I am one of the few who wanted it, as it is still for sale at Global fabrics a year and a half later, but one day it will become the fabric for my version of this dress, pinned here: http://pinterest.com/pin/202028733255015198/. Am I right, or am I right that these two are a match made in heaven??

Tribal print linen of favourite-ness

Does the fabric you buy go straight into hiding or do you wash it first?

I always, always wash first – everything goes into the wash with my home-made detergent (1 cup baking soda, 1 cup washing soda, 1 bar grated sunlight soap and drops of lavender oil). Whe I decide to sew something, I want it ready! And washing first forces me to pause and really consider my purchase and the right pattern to use… washing time saves me from the dreaded wrong-fabric-wrong-pattern disasters.

A cottony collection

How do you add to your stash? Do you buy with a purpose in mind, or is it fabric lust?

Usually, I shop for something in particular, but if I see something I adore, and especially if it makes me audibly gasp, I get it!I used to pop into my local fabric stores for lunchtime entertainment, but I have had to ban myself from that pastime. A girl still needs money for wine and cheese, you know!

Lots of lovely knits

Do you have something in your stash that you cannot bear to cut into? Why?

It has to be this beautiful silk cotton – look at the different patterns on each side! I originally bought 1.5 metres, and decided the next day I needed more, so went back. It’s very soft, floaty but opaque, and in colours that I just adore. Who knows what will become of it? I’m waiting for the right pattern, something that can showcase it beautifully. Suggestions are encouraged!

The too-pretty-to-use fabric

And the other side!

Do you just stash fabric, or does the problem include patterns and notions?

I never had enough patterns until last year, and then I had many great hauls of vintage patterns, and now they are spilling everywhere! I just love them, the possibility, the illustrations, the styles… love them. Oh, and I have a growing collection of buttons. I love buttons. I could feel guilty, but I don’t have any other vices – I don’t smoke, drink (much) or have other expensive hobbies, so I feel like I have to spend my cash on something!

Silken selection

Have you decided to do a “stash-busting” resolution this year? If so, what have you decided to do?

Nope, no deliberate stashbusting exercises this year. I have several items that are bookmearked for something in particular in my stash, it just depends on when I get around to them! I guess that part of this is built into my self-set fortnightly sewing challenges, but I don’t intend to place any restrictions or rules upon myself. We’ll see how I feel next year, yes?

Pile of pretty polyesters

Thanks for the peak into your stash Juliet! Gorgeous fabric. (And if you’re ever looking for a new, loving home for that blue polyester with birds on….. 😉 )

Want to see some other fabric stashes?

• Anne from Mercury Handmade Fashion
• Anne from Pretty Grievances
• Pia from The Overflowing Stash
• I got brave and showed off my stash as well
• and Johanna from Making It Well shared her stash and her thoughts on it

Want to see even more? Stay tuned – Anne and I have a few more stash reveal interviews lined up during February as part of Swap Your Stash month!

(Want to get brave and share your stash with us all? Coz let’s face it – we’re all curious about everyone’s stashes! And we’d love to see your one. 😉 Anne or I would be more than happy to ‘interview’ you as well!)

Swap My Stash – fabric (part 1)

Ok, I’ve done it – I’ve gone through part of my stash, and pulled out some fabric to swap. (Eek! Scary!!)

Here goes. If you’ve got any questions about any of it, or if you’d like to swap for it (as part of the Swap Your Stash party), let me know in the comments below. 🙂

First up, this lovely watercolour-floral print cotton: Reserved

And a close up of the print:

It’s a nice light cotton (heavier than a lawn, probably about the same weight as a quilting cotton but softer). Measures 212cm x 110cm. Pre-washed. Heck knows where or when it’s from – it’s one of those pieces that appeared in my stash from somewhere! Very pretty, but not my colours, so time it found a new home where it will be used.

Next up, a heavy stretch woven in a soft lime green (brighter than in the photo – it’s proven impossible to get a good photo of the colour):

Now I must admit I have no idea what this is made of, but it’s a synthetic. It’s quite heavy, and is smooth and a bit shiny (not crazy-shiny, just a subtle shiny) on one side, and matt on the other. It’s not a knit, but there’s a decent amount of stretch to it, so I’m guessing there’s some elastane or the like going on in there.

There’s 190cm x 114cm of this one, looking for a new home.

Third, another of those heavy stretch wovens of inderminate fibre content, this time in lavender (brighter than in the photo – it’s proven impossible to get a good photo of the colour):

There’s 200cm x 108cm of this one. (Note: one selvedge has been cut off the whole way down. I have no idea what I did with a 10cm wide strip of this fabric?!)

Here’s a fawn coloured ribbed knit. Once again, I’m not sure of the fibre content, but I think (going from memory – this has been in my stash for about a decade) that it’s an acrylic blend. Lots of stretch to it, so great for tops. Reserved

The fawn knit measures 63cm (non-stretch edge) x 180cm (stretch edge, trying very hard not to stretch it while measuring!.

An island print cotton (at least I’m pretty sure it’s cotton. Not 100% sure though…) in browns and blues. Reserved

There’s 115cm x 93cm of this one.

And the last length for swapping (on this post anyway – expect another post with some more in a few days as I continue to go through my stash) is a synthetic black lace. It’s got a bit of stretch to it, and is in a pretty floral design. Reserved

This one measures 200cm x 112cm.

So there we have it folks – some fabric for swapsies! Interested in swapping for any of it, let me know in the comments below (or on the Swap Your Stash Pinterest board).

Show Us Your Stash…. Anne!

Remember how we said we’d be bringing you interviews with bloggers, where they reveal their stash to us all? Anne and I thought we’d better bite the bullet and start it off, showing you all our stashes (which as it turns out is a rather scary thing to do!) since we’re the ones encouraging others to do the same.

And thus, I’m pleased to present to you the first Show Us Your Stash interview, with the lovely Anne from Mercury Handmade Fashion!

So, Anne, I’ve got a few questions for you. Here goes……

How long have you been sewing and stashing? How big is your stash?
I started sewing at 18 or 19, so that’s *whisper* 22 years of stash-building time.
My mother started me off – you should see her collection of wools and other
knitting paraphernalia! There’s no way I could count all the pieces of fabric in
my stash! Look at the photographs, the evidence of the problem is there, laid
bare for all to see!

The extent of the problem

Where the fabric stash hides

Sewing table surrounded by stash

Where do you keep your stash? How do you store it?
My stash has exploded out of the cupboard. There is a new box next to
my sewing table, and a couple of bags that have escaped too! Fabrics are
supposed to be neatly folded and kept in boxes in my fabric cupboard. But I
have too much! Because of the amount I have, I have 5 main categories for
the boxes; winter fabrics, summer fabrics, jerseys, linens and silks. The new
box has “make me now” fabrics. Daughter no2 and I filled that box in summer
2011….

Does what it says on the box!

What is the oldest piece in your stash? What was your original plan for this piece and why hasn’t it happened?
I had to go digging to find the oldest piece, and I was a little surprised at what
I found! It turns out the oldest piece is a dusky pink cotton corduroy, one
of 2 slightly different shades I bought to make coats for my daughters when
they were about 5 or so. I made the one, but the other colour didn’t appeal to
Daughter no1, so it never got used. It still has a little bag containing 2 reels
of thread & the buttons I was going to use! The lining has long since been
pilfered for another project.

Oldest piece complete with notions

What’s your favourite piece in your stash? Where did you get it, what do you love about it, what do you think you might do with it?
I have two pieces. One would have to be 2m of embroidered, beaded white
silk dupion from James Hare. I got it as an end of roll for an absolute bargain!
No idea what I’ll do with it, it’s just gorgeous! The other is a 2m length of a
cotton and mixed fibre piece I bought from Linton Tweed at a Sewing For
Pleasure show at the NEC about 4 or 5 years ago. It is stunning, the colours
are beautiful, but I just don’t know if I want to make it up! It should be a jacket,
and would look fabulous with jeans. Maybe this year is the year I will do
something with it, you never know!

Linton tweed

Does the fabric you buy go straight into hiding or do you wash it first?
New purchases are generally washed, dried and ironed straight away, always
depending on what the fibre content is! I like to be able to grab a piece out of
the cupboard and cut immediately, without having to wait to wash & dry first.

How long have these been waiting?!

How do you add to your stash? Do you buy with a purpose in mind, or is it fabric lust?
Sometimes I buy with a project in mind. That doesn’t mean that that piece will
actually be used for that project. I also suffer terribly from fabric lust. I’ll see a
piece with a perfect colour, pattern or handle and just have to have it. Or I will
spot something I think is perfect for x person for x garment and buy it, then get
home and face a screwed up nose and a “really”?? Humphf, no accounting
for taste with some people. I have scored a few bargains in charity shops, and
last year got a parcel in the mail from a friend who has moved to the States.
She is addicted to bargain hunting & loves estate sales! She just had to share
some of her haul with me!

Do you have something in your stash that you cannot bear to cut into? Why?
I have lots of beautiful fabric, and one particular piece that springs to mind is a
black and gold handblocked Indian silk. It was brought back from India for me
by a student who has since sadly lost a long fight with cancer. It has a double
border and the cutest elephant print. I don’t want to use it on just anything, so
it regularly comes out for a pat and then folded back up and put safely away.

Can’t bear to cut it!

Do you just stash fabric, or does the problem include patterns and notions?
I stash ribbons, lace, buttons, vintage patterns & Burda magazines! I started
buying Burda magazines in 1993, and have every issue since then. The oldest
are in the loft, in waterproof boxes, others are boxed in my fabric cupboard,
and I keep the last 5 year’s worth in boxes next to my sewing table. I have one
big box for vintage patterns, which I snap up in the local charity shops. My one
big weakness is for ribbons. I just love them!

Boxes hide magazines and notions

Have you decided to do a “stash-busting” resolution this year? If so, what have you decided to do?
My stash-busting resolution… I come up with one every January, and never
really stick to them terribly well! I think that’s because I have been too
draconian, like, no buying anything until the stash in gone! Yeah right, like
that’s ever going to happen! So this year I decided that for every 2 items of
stash fabric I use, I am allowed to buy one new piece. If I need it. Of course,
this limitation completely excludes the purchase of linings, interfacings and
notions. 😀 Now that this opportunity to swap some of the things I loved and
bought but possibly have no use for now has come up, I am looking forward to
getting new fabric!!

Thanks for the glimpse into your stash Anne! So many pretty, pretty things! I love how you have your future projects in bags with everything you need for them – brilliant idea. 🙂

Swap My Stash – patterns (part one)

Right, I’m going to be ruthless with my stash. This is just the first post of things I’m going to swap from my stash! Are you ready? We’re starting with some of the patterns…..

If you’re interested in swapping for any of these, just let me know in the comments below. (Or if you have questions about any of them, comment below as well!)

Simplicity 9327. Copyright 1980. Size 10 – 64cm waist.
Misses’ pants in three lengths. Straight leg cuffed pants made to be worn 3.8cm (1 1/2″) above normal waistline have tucked waist detail, buttonhole pockets, fly front zipper, button trim and optional buckled belts. V. 2 is 5cm (2″) shorter than long length V 1. V. 3 is Bermuda length.

Simplicity 7913, from 1968. Size 18, 40″ bust.
Maternity Dress in Misses’ Sizes: The A-line dress with “let-out” side seams has front yoke, set-in sleeves and back zipper. V. 1 & 2 have yoke on bias grain with cowl neckline and back loop and button closing. V. 1 & 3 have long sleeves. V. 2 & 4 have short sleeves. V. 3 & 4 have yoke on straight grain with lowered square neckline. TAKEN!

Butterick 6793, probably from the early 1980s. Size 10, bust 83cm / 32.5″.
Misses’ jacket. Semi-fitted unlined front wrap jacket has shawl or notched collar, patch pocket, two piece effect full length sleeves and purchased shoulder pads. Topstitching. Purchased belts and tops.

Simplicity 6543, from 1984. Size 10 (bust 83cm / 32.5″).
Misses Easy-to-Sew Very Loose-Fitting Jumpsuit in Two Lengths: Top-stitched pull-on jumpsuits have back button closing and pockets stitched in lower front. Ankle length V. 1 and 2 have three-quarter length sleeves with turn-back cuffs. V. 1 has cowl collar. V. 2 and 3 have scoop neckline. Shorter length V. 3 has sleeve and leg edges rolled to the outside with wrong side of fabric showing.

Simplicity 5328, from 1981. Size 10. (83cm / 32.5″ bust).
Misses’ skirt in two lengths, easy-fitting blouse or tunic and unlined vest. V. 1 and 2 blouse or V. 3 tunic have button front, collar, dropped shoulders and long set-in sleeves with elastic wrist casing forming self ruffle. V. 1 and lace trimmed V. 2 have self ruffle collar. V. 3 has side slits. Skirt gathered to waistband has back zipper and pockets in side seams. V. 1 is regular length. V. 2 and 3 are mid-calf length. Vest has shawl collar, extended shoulders and snap front closing.

Butterick 3297, from 1985. Size 6-8-10 (bust 30.5″, 31.5″, 32.5″).
Misses’ blouse. A and B: Loose-fitting blouse, has shoulder pads, slightly extended shoulders and forward shoulder seams. Short sleeves or long sleeves with button cuffs. C: blouse is fitted through bust and has low cutaway armholes. A, B and C: notched collar, pockets and stitched hems. Purchased belt.

Butterick 3683 from the 1970s. Size 10, bust 32 1/2″ (83cm).
Loose-fitting, front buttoned shirt has notched collar, full length sleeves gathered at cap and elasticized at wrists, and patch pocket. Bra top lined to edge ties at center front has attached self halter strap. Front buttoned, A-line skirt in two lengths is darted into waistline. Straight-legged pants or shorts, darted into waistline have mock fly closing. Topstitch trim. Purchased belts.

Simplicity 9074, from 1970. Size 12. Bust 87cm (34″).
Misses’ Robe in Two Lengths: The robe with front closing has high round neckline, stand-up collar, raglan sleeves and pockets concealed in side seams. Regular length V. 1 with below elbow length sleeves and optional lace edging trim can be made with button closing or with decorative metal fasteners. V. 2 has button closing. Floor length V. 2 and 3 have wrist length sleeves. V. 3 has frog closing.

Simplicity 6726, from 1975. Size 12. Bust 87cm / 34″.
Misses’ jacket, skirt and pants. The lined jacket with notched collar has front button closing, back yoke, long set-in sleeves, peplum, back inset, tie ends and optional top-stitching trim. The regular length flared skirt and the pants have back zipper and waistband.

Butterick 5310, from the 1970s. Size small (bust 83-87cm).
Semi fitted dress in ankle length with pockets in side seams or top has round neckline, purchased bias tape finish and ties, front neckline slit, hemline slits, wide above elbow length sleeves and topstitch trim. Instruction and transfer included for Top embroidery.