I think that I'm finally ready to sew my very first piece of clothing from a real pattern. After all, my sewing machine is still working after 6 months and I don't sweat buckets anymore when I need to change the bobbin (no joke). So, last week, I went to the only fabric store that I know in Montreal. I sat on a tall stool, took a little pad from my purse and selected a big catalog (McCall's). Honestly, can the fabric used to illustrate the patterns be uglier than that??? I then decided to take another catalog (Simplicity)! It seems that I just can't get over the depressing pictures! After 30 minutes, I left the store empty handed. Maybe I'm just not ready!Luckily, thanks to Flickr, I came across a picture of a lovely skirt that I would really like to make: McCall's 5430 (skirt C). I went back to the fabric store and did a bee line for the pattern...no silly catalog! A 1 hour skirt? Really? Even better, it's written on the package "Suddenly you're sewing!" That's perfect for me! Now, I just have to learn to use fusible interfacing, to make a button hole and to figure out my size...but that's a detail. A 1 hour skirt. I don't think so ;)
14 comments:
Clo - I've been sewing for years and I still get nervous making clothes. I still can't a). Make a button-hole, b). put a zipper in. I know people all over the blog world are thinking...then you don't know how to sew...but I have lots of dresses and skirts to prove it. But I really do want to learn some of the basics over again! Good luck! I know from your other sewing projects that you are a perfectionist and that it will turn out "Perfect!" :)
I know what you mean about the styling of the pictures on patterns -- don't they want people to BUY the patterns? It takes a lot of creative thinking to look past the ugly fabrics and to envision something nice!
Good luck with your skirt! I think you picked a really good one because there's no zipper! xo
You can do it!
Buttonholes aren't that hard....just make some practice ones before you try one on your skirt. Your machine may even have an automatic button hole maker. If not, just take it slow. You will be a pro in no time.
I find sewing clothing easy, but sewing small toys and hand sewing is so difficult to me!!! Everyone has their 'thing'. :)
You will be fine. If I can help you over the internet, I'd be glad to. But I am sure you will manage if you shed the fear! ;)
And my experience with those 1 hour patterns is dreadful. They appear so much more complicated than they should be. Stay strong, girl!
PS. I just tagged you on my blog!
Oh girl!!! Best of luck with that. You are very meticulous and should do a great job. I have a horrible time with following directions (in all aspects) so I don't think I could do it.
Although, if you show me it can be done... I might have some hope!
You go girl!!!
OoOoh, good luck, can't wait to see how it turns out! I am so envious, I am still terrified of my sewing machine!
You're too funny. I know what you mean about the models and the samples, it's hard to find flattering photos that inspire. But I love your choice of pattern. I wish I was comfortable wearing skirts! The interfacing is VERY easy to use. (I know because I can do it, LOL.) Basically one side has a sticky "glue", you will put that side on the wrong side of the fabric. Sometimes you can just iron it on. Sometimes you have to get it a little damp, and then put an iron to it. Usually the interfacing, (or fusible fleece is fine too), has the instructions on it (on the plastic wrap). I wish I could help with a button hole but I don't even have the feature on my machine. Can't wait to buy my new machine! :) Good luck!
Good luck with your first skirt! I've been sewing for years and used an achient machine. When the old work horse broke down, I discovered a machine that does an automatic button hole and from then on my fear disapeared. Maybe your machine has a special foot attachment that does this?
Do show the finished skirt too.
that is a great pattern. have been wanting to try sewing clothing for the first time and may have to try this one myself. thanks for sharing. (found you through the f.felt swap.)
Way to go, Claudia! How great that you want to try this out....1, 2, 3, or 4 hours - who cares as long as you enjoy what you are doing ;0)
I totally agree with you; there are SO many patterns which are shown in the most UGLY fabrics! I don't get it - that definitely doesn't make them sell more of their products....
I need to show the skirt pattern you found to my daughter. She LOVES skirts...
Good luck with your very 1st piece of clothing - I know you will make a beautiful result :0)
Buttonholes! The bane of my existence! But maybe I'd be able to get the hang of it if I wasn't using the same sewing machine my mother used in high school. My machine is a workhorse, but it turns it's nose up at helping me with anything fancy like a buttonhole.
Can't wait to see your finished skirt!
Your skirt pattern looks to me like a very good choice! But those estimated times they give - just like for cooking instructions - are somewhat exaggerated... I never manage to make anything according to their schedules. But who cares anyway, the best thing is to make the skirt and enjoy the result. Good luck! : )
Judging by all of your other first time projects I know it will turn out fabulously! just like your squirrel zip pouch. You are such a clever girl! Can't wait to see the skirt.
I just made this skirt (check out my blog). I love it! You should get to it if you haven't already. :)
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