Want, Need and Use Up

My sewing seems to be falling into three main categories at the moment. Things I want because I love them; things I need because of the time of year and projects that use up either time or fabric because I have both.

This was a wanty thing. A new Ottobre magazine arrived in the post and this top jumped out at me. I thought it would be easy but it was actually quite an involved make because of the sleeve detail. The fabric is from Sherwood Fabrics an online shop I use sometimes here.It was a remnant I bought just before lockdown.  In truth I wanted to try out the top because it also comes in a delightful dress version so a quick test of the top half was a on my radar. My alterations for the dress would be to add a little length to each shoulder seam as they fall a bit short making it a bit tight across the shoulders but for an evening out (in the future??) this is totally wearable because the fabric is so luxurious.

 

These shorts were needed. I have trashed all of my shorts with building work over the last two years and needed a nice pair - to keep as a nice pair. This fabric was given to me but I can't remember who by, shout out if it was you! The pattern is by Simple Sew called the Shannon collection. I have made the trousers (which are now too small) but I liked the hip/waist fit on them so I cut them a smidge larger for these shorts. I left off the sailor buttons and love the feel of them - proper mum shorts. I had to use some navy sheeting left over from backing a quilt to make the pocket bags and the waistband lining but it looks pretty intentional and not hashed together. 

To kill an afternoon of time I chose The Sailor Top by Fancy Tiger crafts which is a favourite pattern in my collection. Again, it is not as easy as it looks with all that gathering but this is my third one so I knew it would provide a couple of hours enjoyment in my sewing hidey-hole. The fabric is from Liberty and I have been saving it a for a long time, maybe I was waiting for a pandemic lockdown before I felt I could use it! There is a contrast collar for a reason. I managed to cut out two pairs of sleeve facings instead of one pair then didn't have enough fabric to cut out the neck pieces. Anyways... It is a lovely top and really comfortable so no dramas.

Finally, just to use up the fabric, I made a Scout Tee which is always a winner. I have a long sleeved and a short sleeved blouse now in this fabric so I can enjoy this dobby cotton for 12 months of the year.

So there is a little snippet of my summer wardrobe made over the last eight weeks. I mean I could happily sew everyday but using up what I have is always a real thrill. 

Thanks for stopping by. Enjoy some sunshine. Jo xxxx