FO: Burda 02-2010-104 Skirt

My first Burda (magazine) pattern... 02-2010-104 skirt. I love the simplicity of this skirt! There's some great versions here and here and here. I'm glad this was my first Burda pattern since it's so easy... I didn't really need to refer to Burda's infamous instructions. :)



Pattern: 02-2010-104
Fabric: Stretch cotton sateen print from Hancock Fabrics from summer 2009
Notions: invisible white zipper



As much I love this skirt, I ended up giving it away to my sister-in-law due to sizing.  I like to wear my bottoms at my lower waist. The pattern specifically said that the top of the waistband was going to be at my waist, and I chose to ignore it. It wasn't blatantly ignored... I reasoned it through saying that the little bit of lycra would be enough to make the skirt hit my lower waist. I was wrong because it was interfaced! Haha... I could wear, but I wouldn't be happy with it. It's where it will be loved and worn. :)

On another note, the waistband got a little wonky and the "stitch in the ditch" isn't looking so hot... I think it's because I was originally going to omit the interfacing and then changed my mind, which ended up going on the lining/inside portion.





But on a good note... my invisible zipper looks much better than my last skirt.

Even though I didn't end up with the skirt, I really like the pattern and will give it another shot. Happy creating!

FO: Simplicity 2886 - The Sundress

I made this dress to wear to my little brother's graduation. It's a nice cotton sundress that was perfect for the Texas heat. I think it looks like a little girl's (around the age of 5) dress due to my fabric choices. It's cute, but I'm not sure it suits me... it's growing on me and the husband likes it. I've already worn it out in public twice in less than 2 weeks so that's a good sign. This also the first completed item for my Summer Essentials Sewalong. :)



Pattern: Simplicity 2886
Fabric: Amy Butler's Lotus Collection Lacework in brown (main) and pink cotton (contrasting) both of which were from my stash :)



Modifications:

1. No elastic in the back bodice... used 2 darts instead to remove gaping.
2. Used bodice from view C and skirt from view A.
3. Used a 2" hem allowance.

Recommendations:

1. Sew the pintucks down... otherwise you'll it will look uneven and you'll have to iron it every time and it will still look like this:

2. Don't wait until the end to insert straps like it says in the instructions.
3. Be careful with markings and the curves.
4. Pins are your friends. :) I don't normally use very many of them, but they definitely helped on this one.

Please ignore my funny facial expression. I did have a picture where I was smiling, but it looks like I accidentally deleted it thinking that this was the correct one... boo! There's also some wrinkling due to wear. :)




I love the pleating on the skirt, which isn't too noticeable with my busy print, and the pockets on this dress! I do recommend this pattern... it makes for a great sundress.

Currently in progress:
- Kwik Sew 2689... pieces cut out and partially sewn


- Burda 02-2010-104... traced

Summer Essentials Sew-Along

Ali from the wardrobe, reimagined is hosting a "Summer Essentials Sew-Along" that I've decided to join. Click here for more info.



Here's what I have imagined for my summer sewing so far...


Poolside Pretties:
Kwik Sew 2689 - swimsuit

Amy Butler's Modern Diaper Bag from Little Stitches - beach bag


Clamdiggers & Co:
Simplicity 4135

Sailor pants - NL6190 & Sailor in Burmuda mash


Sweet & Sassy Skirts:
Burda 02-2010-104


The Sundress:
Simplicity 2886 - Completed 6/3/10 (Post on this in the making...)
Infinity Dress
Vogue 1086
Burda 04-2010-116


Tees, Tunics, & Blouses:
McCall 5977
Self-drafted halter


Those Summer Nights:
Simplicity 3538 - JCrew Fiona modification
Burda 04-2010-117

 What can I say... I love to plan! Who knows what I'll actually finish, but my goal is to have at least one item from each category. This will be my composite page for this sew-along.