Saturday 5 December 2015

Diary of making jeans


Today (1 Nov) I cut out my second pair of jeans from Burda 7863. I made them shorter than last time. The fabric is fine cord with a stretch. Little M says it feels like a mole! It is from myfabrics.co.uk. 1 hour cutting and marking pattern pieces.



Today (25 NOV) I went for opulent sewing. I set up my two machines and my overlocker each with a chair. One threaded for seams, one threaded with top stitching thread and the overlocker all set up, the fourth chair I sat in to baste/tack and read instructions. I moved with ease from chair to chair adding the pocket detail on the fronts and backs. A happy two hours sewing.



Today (28 Nov) I sewed up the side seams and did the zip fly. It felt easier than last time. I also had a try on to check fit. So far so good. 1 hour of successful sewing.



Today (29 Nov) I added the waist band and hemmed the bottoms with a double row of top stitching. 1 more hour of delightful sewing.



Today (30 Nov) I went to put on the belt loops but the waist was such a good fit I decided I didn't want them. Instead I took some photos. All finished, 5 hours later.

My dad always ribs me about making my own clothes. He wonders why I do it when I can go to the shops and buy them but after going to a garden centre retail outlet with Little M last Saturday for only one hour reminded me why staying in and enjoying a bit of sewing is far superior to walking round shopping with a whinger! There I said it.

This Burda 7863 pattern is on sale at the moment for £2.90 from Minerva They have the Prym metal fittings too.


Happy sewing hours make for a happy family I have found. 
Jo x





 

16 comments:

  1. Jo brilliant idea... sewing like that and a fab result too congrats.
    re shopping: me too cant beat shopping from the comfort of a nice chair with a cuppa in hand whilst tapping on the keys....no crowds or queues either!
    bestest ashley x

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  2. Don't we do it because we can? Or to see if we can. When we can there is a feeling of having succeeded in a skill that is useful. I think the majority of people have few practical skills so it is important that some of us keep them alive. You never know what is around the corner. Re-inventing the wheel may be needed one day! Well that's the gloomy reason, but otherwise, I make because it is fun, enjoyable and a challenge with hopefully a great outcome which makes you feel good. It's actually quite an empowering feeling to be able to make things out of raw materials. I would much rather I had that knowledge than didn't and not need to rely on others for everything, which is what buying ready made is. It gives autonomy and feelings of accomplishment for something tangible. I like deconstructing how things we take for granted are made.

    Great fit for your jeans (another reason to make them). Love how the fabric is all lined up! (you don't always get that in ready to wear.) I do find perfect fitting jeans in the shop do stretch though, so maybe these will and you will need the waist loops after all? Well done, because I think jeans are probably one of the ultimate challenges for a clothes maker. Not one I have risen to, but you do inspire me.

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  3. Again you wow me with your sewing skills, those would be way, way over my head to make. They fit perfectly and you look amazing in them. The best part of it all , you can tell your Dad I said this is that you made them and they are one of a kind.
    Meredith

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  4. Your amazing plain and simple. They look great on you.
    Xx Beca

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  5. Another brilliant idea...to set up your machines for a production line, and the result is so worth your efforts, Jo. The jeans are a perfect fit and a practical use of your artistry! Thanks for posting :) xx

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  6. Love your jeans, Jo. Really fantastic job. I bought some denim about a month ago, washed the fabric to shrink it and it's been sitting on my ironing board ever since!
    Barbara xx

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  7. Yet again, another amazing project. I really should have a go at least they would fit me I have to alter every pair of trousers anyway. Yours are an amazing fit, well done.

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  8. Wow! They look Amazing!! And so quick too. I have a fear of trouser making after two failed attempts!!

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  9. You have such a skill when it comes to making your own clothes, and you're clearly good at it, so why not? And you enjoy it which is ultimately all that matters.

    The jeans are ace. Not wanting to sound weird or anything, but your bum looks really good in them. :-)

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  10. Thanks! I did sort of invite that sort of comment with that photo didn't I??

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  11. They are gorgeous and everything matches up so well. I'm with you on the shopping though it really doesn't do it for me either. I always complain how pricey everything is and how I could make it for less. Great job. x

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  12. Ah, jeans, the ultimate challenge. One I haven't taken up as yet. Great job Jo.

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  13. These are fabulous! They must surely be close to the best thing you have made? :)

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  14. Oh wow, they are perfect! I am even more nervous about starting dressmaking now, I wouldn't have a clue what all the machines are for :)

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  15. Wow! I'm super impressed! They turned out great! The workmanship and the fit are fantastic! Congratulations! :-D

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  16. They look Fabulous Jo.... You are doing the great British sewing bee next year I hope :0)
    Jacquie x

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