Sewing Vortex

We are on the brink of HOLIDAY SEASON. To feed the sewing bug during this time of craziness, it's important that projects be quick, easy and possibly run double duty as gifts.  If this sounds like just what you need this season too, I heartily recommend you check out Itch to Stitch 's newest pattern, Cape Cod Capelet . Whether you are looking for a unique handmade gift, or want to treat yourself to a stylish not-cardigan cover up, Cape Cod Capelet is a great option! What I Made I'm going to shock all of you now and announce that I didn't make a muslin for this. I mean, I did start out intending to, but quickly discovered that it wasn't necessary.  I selected a size M based on the only measurement needed for this pattern: the bust. Cape Cod Capelet is a very loose garment built for layering. There's plenty of ease, yet even shorties like myself are not overwhelmed with too much fabric. Itch to Stitch really has nailed that balance with Cape C...

 So what do you do when the temperature starts dropping, but you aren't ready to drop your hemline yet? The solution is easy: Culottes. If you never thought of culottes as a trans-seasonal garment, you are missing out! They have the style of a skirt, with the ease of shorts (or pants). Itch to Stitch is releasing Gobi Culottes today and I couldn't be more excited! I particularly love the button fly and top stitching details. And, if I'm being honest, the retro 80's shape coupled with the 90's styling I've done here really makes my later-half Gen X heart sing! Pattern Details Itch to Stitch Gobi Culottes is reminiscent of the popular pleated shorts of the 1980's, but updated with modern details that make the style sleek and relevant. The contoured yoke/waistband is fitted with pretty seams that line up with the front pleats. The back uses a center leg seam for shaping instead of a yoke or darts to keep that minimal skirt feel. There is a Shorten/L...

My wardrobe has a serious lack of solids. They don't make very flashy or exciting garments to share; I find solids can be pretty dull to plan and boring to sew. However, I frequently despair of not having enough solids in my closet. I think the best way to make sewing solids fun is to choose an interesting pattern. Kosice Top & Dress , Itch to Stitch 's newest release has this wonderfully delicate looking neckline, making it very interesting to sew!   Pattern Details I love unique details and a feminine feel without too many frills. Kosice Top & Dress definitely fits that description! It's a little boho, a little peasant blouse and a little button-up shirt ..but not too much... all rolled into one. This pattern is drafted for light weight fabrics with a little more body than you might expect. Like shirting. Rayon can drape beautifully, but it is limp in the body department and can cause drooping through the sleeve seams. Chambray and lawn can be nice c...