Butterick 3236 Princess Costume Review

Pattern Description:

Floor-length dress has fitted, lined bodice with side front seams, slightly flared skirt and back zipper. A: contrast bodice front/skirt and sleeve flounce. B: flower trim and contrast bodice/sleeves/bustle. C: contrast bodice front/front underskirt/sleeve ruffles. D: contrast sleeve flounce. A,D: long sleeves. B,C: below- elbow sleeves. All have purchased trim.

 

Pattern Sizing:

Child 6-8

I cut the 6 View C 

 

Were the instructions easy to follow?

Yes they were

 

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?

Everything was awesome about the pattern. I did get tripped up on figuring out what was the top/bottom pieces of the overskirt but then figured it out.

 

Fabric Used:

I used 2 colored organza and broadcloth from Joann’s. I loved the glitter fuchsia organza. So I layered it with the broadcloth to make it work.  The silver sequins were from my stash.

 

 

 

 Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?

I would if I had to make another princess costume, sure. I def recommend it to others. I think it’s the best view of the pattern. It could even pass for a Anne Boleyn period dress too.

 

 Conclusion:

Overall this pattern makes for a fast and easy costume.

 

 

Thanks for checking out my review

Happy Sewing!!

 

McCalls 6619 Belle Costume Pattern Review

Pattern Description:

CHILDREN'S APRONS, HEADPIECE AND WAND: Aprons have shoulder straps, self-lined bodice, waistband, pleated tie ends, and gathered skirt with overlays. Purchased trims. B: bustle. C: peplum. A and D: flower/leaf. C and D: applied ruffles. Note: instructions are given to create headpiece and wand. 

Pattern Sizing:

Child S, M, L

I cut the small view D in an S/ 3-4. It was a lil big on her cause she wears a 3.

 Were the instructions easy to follow?

Yes there were but there was a lot of hemming and gathering.

 What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?

I did not care for the hemming and the way the bottom ruffles were done. I felt like it could have been done easier with the amount of steps for this view. Toward the end a started making my own changes. I’m not into hand sewing lots of trim. To attach the ruffles I did them upside down right sides together. Folded them down and machine stitched the gimp trim over the seam. It came out perfectly flat.

Fabric Used:

I used costume satin from Joann’s. I hate costume satin!! There I said it. That fray check gives me a headache. :P I used gold gimp and yellow lace and sequin trim from eBay.

 Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?

I would if I had to make a costume or some fun dress up clothes. I would use the other views instead. View D takes a lot of effort for a good outcome. My princess wanted to be Belle so I put it in. I do recommend the pattern but there are ways to make it faster and even better looking.

 Conclusion:

Overall this pattern makes for a easy costume. I love that its apron style and makes for easy getting in and out of. Because it’s a lil big on her I have just enough time to add a hook and eye in the back top to help keep it up J
 

Thanks for checking out my review

Happy Sewing!!

Simplicity 2406 Pattern Review and September Pretty Girls Sew Along

Way back when I had the red and black lumberjack with the ...bow to match? haha no... okay so I'm not a rapper but I will say that that song and the mix of faux leather and plaid inspired me in the making of this one. This is my submission for the Septembers Pretty Girls Sew along

 

 

 

Pattern Description:

Misses' dress in three lengths with sleeve variations by Cynthia Rowley.

 

Pattern Sizing:

H5 Misses 6-14

I cut the 10. There is alot of wearing ease. I think I made an okay choice.

 

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

For the most part. the shape is the same though I made some changes.

 

Were the instructions easy to follow?

Yes they were. I did find a lot of tutorials about the sleeves online. The pictures in the instructions were not that great so the tuts made the light bulb in my head click on. :) 

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?

The only thing I didn't care for was the boxiness of the skirt. I think it would be cuter if it was pegged but that's my personal opinion. I'm to lazy to pick out the pockets and change it. I dont care much for facings either. This would be better lined.
 

Fabric Used:

A matte stretch faux leather fabric and a knit plaid that I bought from Girl Charlee.

 

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:

I sliced the front and back bodice pieces at the triangles under the waist line. Then added seam allowance to both pieces so I could join them to make the dress look like two pieces. I also added the zipper after noticing how much body the faux leather had. The back gaped more than I liked and I wanted to be able to wear it to church.

 

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?

I recomend the pattern for its ease of use. I might try it again in a single fabric choice but don't know. Its more grown up than I usually wear and still have many patterns to go through.

 

Conclusion:

Over all its a well constructed pattern and the sew along encouraged me to go out of my box and try something new.
 

.. and because life is too short to be serious lol. Thank God for my husband who makes life so much fun and for being my photographer.

 

Thanks for checking out my review.

Happy Sewing
 

Violette Field Threads Cosette Pattern Review

When this pattern first came out I knew I had to have it and make it for my girlies. I’ve made it twice so far for birthday presents and have yet to make it for them ha ha. Right now, I’m knee deep into Halloween. I'm so looking forward to busting out some fall patterns and speaking of patterns.... I won the VFT Knit pattern giveaway!!!! How awesome is that!! I’ve never won anything before, especially, not from my favorite place to shop. So now I have a bunch of new patterns to sew up. Thanks again to Violette Field Threads.

 

 

 

Pattern Description:

Cosette is a Maxi Dress featuring a pleated bodice with cascading flutter sleeves. The delicate flutter sleeves extend all the way down the back and tie in a sweet bow at the top of the back bodice. The skirt is full and has four sets of ruffles adorning the bottom. This gorgeous dress is so feminine with classic styling.

 

Pattern Sizing:

2T-10 year I cut the bodice in a 6 and the rest in a 5 because shes a tiny girl :)

 

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

Yes it sure did.

 

Were the instructions easy to follow?

i got hung up on the pleats a lil bit because it was my first time making them but got the hang of it. The directions are very clear.

 

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?
I love how the pleated bodice came out. I was never a fan of hemming but VFT is bringing me out of that. The more I do it the easier (or tolerable lol) it gets. There is a lot of hemming for the long bottom ruffles.

 

Fabric Used:
Blue and Green Medallion part of the Little Lisette Collection from Joann's
Its so soft!!
 

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:
No changes were made
 

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?
I def plan on sewing this again. may look for a sweet eyelet for Easter.  I recommend this pattern for any lil girl who loves feeling like a princess.
 

Conclusion:
Another hit! Love the Cosette. Its easy to make and even though the ruffles take a bit of time, the end result is stunning.

Thanks for checking out my review.
Happy sewing.


Don't sew? Need a dress for as special occasion or love Violette Field Threads Clothes? Contact me for custom orders @ Leilastrousseau@aol.com or on my Etsy https://www.etsy.com/shop/LeilasTrousseau

McCalls 6743 Pattern Review and PrettyGirlsSew Sewalong

 

As some of my many friends know, I love Instagram!! I have my Bloglovin for my "news" and have Instagram for my "Entertainment & Funnies" ha ha. I used to just look at nail art and whatever my friends were doing at the time on until I started looking for more people in the sewing community. I have found that a lot more people are coming forth and enjoy the same interests that I do. All the work is ahh mazing. I love looking at other ladies fabric selections and stashes, patterns they are working on at the moment, & and how they juggle their passion and or businesses with family life.

 

I recently came across a group of ladies on Instagram called  Pretty Girls Sew. I love how these ladies passion for sewing. they make it "sew" fun. Lame.. yes yes I know. Lately I have been following their monthly sew along and wanted to give it a shot. For August they choose the McCalls 6743,. I went online to see the reviews on this pattern and there were none...... That was strange.. really none? Ive only seen a few comments about it but no finished products, so I wanted to see what can be done with it.



Pattern Description:

MISSES' DRESSES AND BELT: Very loose-fitting, pullover dresses have bias neck binding, gathers, seam detail, and narrow hem. A: self belt. C: neck ruffle. D: binding extends into tie ends. B, C and D: shaped hemline, wrong side shows.

Designed for light to medium weight wovens and knits.

SUGGESTED FABRICS: Cotton Lawn, Jerseys, Crepe De Chine, Batiste.

Pattern Sizing:

Y (XSmall-Small-Medium)

I cut the Medium and made adjustments

 

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

Yes it did

 

Were the instructions easy to follow?

Yes.. then no. The directions for the neckline were all over the place. I figured it out and ended up taking it apart and top stitched it in place because it looked too tunnely.

 

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?

It was kinda a pain making sure to cut the pieces right and put them together right without messing up the sides, expecially because I had a solid colored fabric. There are 3 pieces for both the front and the back. It makes sense because there's no way to cut one big piece to get all that fullness. But a pain none the less lol. 

 

Fabric Used:

I used Crimson Red Solid Jersey Rayon Spandex Knit Fabric from Girl Charlee

 

 

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:
I shortened the waist by 2"and the hem by 3". Good thing because the drapiness and maybe even the bias still made it longer than I intended. I decided to keep the length as is. Baste side seams before finishing. I felt the armholes were really low; unless you are going for that look. I also stabilized the armholes. Wish I did the same for the neckband because it felt heavy even though it was a lightweight fabric. 

 

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?
Maybe in the shorter view but no more asymmetrical hems. One is good enough for me. Sure, I would recommend it.. its cute with accessories. I feel like it looks kinda lake a muumuu without them. The cut make for a very flowy skirt so be careful of drafts, I opened my door to go outside and the wind swept it way up lol.

Conclusion:
The dress is flowy and fun. Accessories are a necessity in my mind. Just be mind full of joining the seams on asymmetrical skirts because it can trip you up a little, or at least just me lol. The neck options could have been written better too. Otherwise it was a great pattern. I love the red because its the only red I own now :) Cant wait to see all the other participant's dresses.

Love my Lil Helpers :)
Thanks for checking out my review
Happy Sewing

 

Violette Field Threads Bridgette Pattern Review

Just a little review of the dress that I made for my nieces Birthday :)

 

Pattern Description:

Discription from Violette Field Threads.

Bridgette is sweet as a cupcake!! Bridgette features a tailored one shoulder bodice and a full gorgeous three layer skirt. The skirt is made from either cotton, silk or beautiful applique tulle. It closes with a side zipper and pretty waist sash with a wide front side bow. It has plenty of twirl and wow factor while still be suitable for ones new to sewing! 

 

  

Pattern Sizing:

Sizes: 2-10 years

 

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

Yes very much so.

 

Were the instructions easy to follow?

Always... ANYONE can make a Violette Field Threads pattern. They are awesome at giving directions.

 

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?

I love everything about the pattern. Ive made 3 so far. The only part it dont like is attaching the belt. I close it and keep it detachable.

 

Fabric Used

 

Chiffon and tulle from Joanns

 and Nylon chiffon from afc-express

 

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:

None, just measure the child as suggested and it will be perfect.

 

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?

I see myself making a few more of these. my girls love them and my neices seem pretty happy about them too. If you have never sewn a Violette Field Threads pattern... I suggest you run not walk to them lol. They have classic timelss designs that I use for every gift ive given so far.

 

Conclusion:

Nothing but great things about the pattern and the way it was written. Ive used several of their patterns and continue to use them over and over.

 

 

Thanks for checking out my review

Happy Sewing

Vintage Simplicity 1292 Pattern and Review

 

Simplicity Description:

Child's One Piece Dress and Jumper

Both dress and jumper feature an circular skirt and back button closing. Dress has short sleeves with rick rack trim on skirt and contrasting collar and cuffs. Jumper may be worn over the dress or by itself. It has a v shaped neckline; back neckline is rounded. Shaped pockets are sewn to skirt front. Tie ends, view 1, fasten in the back.

Pattern Sizing:

Size two but fits like a 3t

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

Yes it did but different. ;)

Were the instructions easy to follow?

Not so, I struggled with the button back and threw it in my frustration pile for over a year. I winged it and made it my own way. Not sure if I followed directions. Made other changes to construction as well to cuff attachment. Apparently I put the peter pan collar on crooked too but I was not about to take it out.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?

I was so frustrated with this project at first and let it sit for a while. Luckily the size ran larger than I thought and fit my daughter perfectly.  

Fabric Used:

Stretch cotton poplin from my fave place Girl Charlee. Which is no longer available.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:

The cuff called for bias binding but instead I attached it to the wrong side, understiched it to the sleeve, folded it to the right side and then pressed it. I omited the rick rack. Ew!

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?

Don't feel like I need another one even though she looks like a cutie out of Modcloth. Wish I had some funky retro glasses for the pics. Pattern is up for sale if anyone is interested in giving it a shot. Just email me for deets.

Conclusion:

In the end I feel like and experienced seamstress would do better than a beginner with this. Thankfully I had learned something during the year that it was sitting on the shelf and was able to complete it.

Thanks for checking out my review. Happy sewing!! ;)

 

 

New Comfy Knit Dress

While browsing around blogland I came across this awesome tutorial and blog by Little Big Girls Studio. She has a tutorial for the cutest little comfy knit dress. The bodice is available to download in a 2t-3t and is easily adaptable to a larger size if needed. It makes up fast and I want to make a dozen more because they are so easy to just put on and go. Go check out her blog here.

Fabric was from my stash bought at Girl Charlee. Isn't my Leia Pea soo sweet?!

McCalls M6744 Pattern Review

  McCalls Description:

MISSES' DRESSES: Pullover dresses have bodice variations, elasticized (seamed) waist, and narrow hem. A and B: fitted bodice. C and D: mock wrap, very loose-fitting bodice with elasticized shoulders.Designed for moderate stretch knits.SUGGESTED FABRICS: Jerseys, Interlocks, Cotton Knit.

I used view B

Pattern Sizing:

Y(XSmall-Small-Medium)

I cut a small

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

Yes it did ;)

Were the instructions easy to follow?

Very easy to follow. Only four pieces in the pattern.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?

I love the way it comes together very quick. No thinking involved. my only peeve is the neckline and armholes are folded in. For a more finished look I recommend binding. I've also made one with a knit fusible tape. That was really great.  Saved time making bias tape. Just be sure to clip the curves so it lies flat.

Fabric Used:

Jersey ITY from my fave place Girl Charlee. Are you surprised lol?

Big Tiffany Blue White Chevron Jersey ITY Knit

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:

Not much. Only stablized the neckline and arms. I would suggest adding length to the bodice if you are bustier.  Im a 5'1 with a 34B. So the small worked perfect.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?

Most definitely.  Its very in right now and perfect for the season. I 've made two and plan on making more.

Conclusion: 

In the end I highly recommend this pattern. For not only its style and versatility but its ease and short amount of time it came together.  

 

Thanks for checking out my review. Happy sewing!! ;) 

 

Here's a small pic of the other one I made using more Girl Charlee fabrics.

Ladies Dress Refashion

    

So my lovely niece’s birthday was coming up and I was trying to come up with some ideas for gifts. I love using Violette Field Threads patterns for gifts especially because of their sweet vintage charm. I was originally planning on using the Penelope skirt as pictured with the Fiona bodice as a top but....Fiona didn't have the size I needed. So I decided to use the Emmaline again of course.
I knew I wanted to use a textured knit but couldn't find what I was looking for. Then I found this cute A line women's dress at Wal-Mart and it was on sale. Bonus!! Only problem was, it was a small but it was exactly the color and texture I was looking for. So I decided that I had to make it work haha.
I took it home and decided to pick the seams so I could salvage the most fabric. Removed the zipper and kept the pleats in the skirt. The length was perfect for making the dress without the ruffles plus no hemming was needed. I made the bodice and connected the gathered skirt and it was done that easy. I threw together some VFT Stunning flowers for the headband and embellished them with beads.
Isn’t she too cute ;) if you have never tried their patterns or even a pdf pattern, I highly recommend doing so. They are easy to read, fast to put together and the results are amazing. Happy Birthday Lalani

Violette Field Threads Mashup

My daughter was invited to a special little girls 5th birthday party.  Automatically my creative side was all over pinterest looking for ideas for a birthday gift. I happened to run across this cute Ralph Lauren tribal dress and loved it. I like how the pattern was at a "v" instead of straight across.

 I knew that two patterns by Violette Field Threads would be perfect for recreating the dress; The Viola and Emmaline.
I loved the pattern of the dress but I didn't have anything cool as that in my stash. Plus summer is coming up and I wanted something a little brighter.  The closest I had was a pink, purple, and orange tribal print that  I received in a Girl Charlee bargain box sale ;) Its a  knit so I sized down the pattern to a 4 to account for the stretch. I used the Viola bodice and the skirt from the Emmaline. The only tricky part was cutting the skirt in a diagonal while leaving big scraps. I'm a fabric hoarder ;) I reduced the hem of the skirt by 3 in and the hem of the bottom ruffle by 1in to account for thr knit and the hem does tend to run a little long. I do recommend measuring the child. I had nothing to go by. So I guessed and got lucky.  I made a lettuce hem to make it cutesy and to save time of folding and hemming.  I wanted to make the rutching on the bodice but decided not to to save time. Overall it was a fun project and she loved spining in it during church.  So I guess it was a job well done. Happy 5th birthday Cali Rain!!

Vogue 1315 Pattern Review

More often than most get to sew for my babies. I really want to branch out my talent and learn how to sew...well for me :) I love stretch knits because they are forgiving especially for the person like me who has yet to learn about fit. I knew when I saw this pattern that I would love it. I’ve seen a lot of reviews on this one and most of the people talked about the length of the dress and construction of the pockets. Here's my review..

Description:
Loose-fitting, pullover dress (semi-fitted through bust) has double-layer neck band with raw edge finish, blouson bodice, elastic, seamed waist, side front pockets, front pleats, and stitched hems

Pattern Sizing
Ladies 6-14

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?
Yes very much so. Though my fabric would not curl at the neckline as much :(

Were the instructions easy to follow?
Yes they were easy to follow at first but I think the intimation of the pocket got to me. :( It was my first time doing pockets. I'm sure a seasoned sewist would have no fear. I would suggest using a longer stitch if you are unsure about the pleat. So if you mess up, it’s easier to pick out. I felt the picture looked reverse than what it should have been or maybe pdf patters just have me spoiled lol.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?
I loved the pleated pockets and neckline. I'm 5'1 and it was a little on the short side but nothing a cute pair of leggings couldn't fix. If I was to make it again I would probably lengthen by 2 in because I don't like my dresses to o long.

Fabric Used
I’m Unsure. It’s an animal print from fabric mart.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:
None

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?
Yes both

Conclusion:
Overall it’s a fun patter for fall. I love that it has long sleeves and was super easy to sew and looked great with my leggings and boots.

Thanks for checking out my review.

Happy sewing.

Mango Lemonade

While playin around on instagram, I came across one of my friends pictures. He had a mango lemonade and was putting shots of Ciroc in it. It looked so good, I had to make my own.  So I was off. I bought what I thought would be good and for a first try it was not half bad. We didnt taste the Ciroc so I'm betting its one of those sneaky drinks :) You don't have to have it in there either because its yum but itself too. I'm sure there are plenty of recipes but here's mine.

Mango Lemonade

4c water
1c lemon juice
1c simple syrup
(I keep some in the fridge because granulated sugar doesn't dissolve fast enough in cold water)
1 can goya mango nectar

Lemon Mangoloso
Add Ciroc

Mix, add ice and a straw, and enjoy :)
And because I'm too lazy to take my own pic.... I'm going to steal his pic too lol.

Burda 7184 Pattern Review

Pattern Description:

New feminine silhouette with elegant swing. The raglan sleeves are granting wearing ease. The loosely draped front pieces with notched collar adds a special bling to it.

Pattern Sizing:

10-20
I cut a 12. I feel that the size was right for the drapeyness.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

Yes it did.

 Were the instructions easy to follow?

Yes they were very easy.

 What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?

If you want to use stripes use extra caution. The sleeves are made in two pieces and the way they line up at the neckline is kinda funny. Lucky for me I was using a sweater knit and have T Rex arms. No one knows but me that the arms are a lil short. If you don't care for hemming; there was a lot. But once that's done it’s a breeze. Also the arms are cut curved, I prefer less curve for a less a bulky fitted sleeve.

 Fabric Used:

Striped sweater knit I bought just for a cardigan pattern from Girl Charlee. :)

 Pattern alterations or any design changes you made

I didn't make any.

 Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?

Yes I would both sew again and recommend.

Conclusion:
Overall this is a good pattern. Next one I make I will make some changes to the sleeves to make them a little more fitted. I love the "drapeyness" and flow of the sweater. I’ve worn it several times since I made it ;) you can wear it drapey, pair it with a belt at the waist. Or tie it. Love it! Sorry about the crappy pictures. It’s hard to find a place to stick my camera because we don’t have a tripod J

Happy sewing thanks for checking out my review.

 

 

Ottobre Design 06/2012 Velour Tunic Review

 

Pattern Description:

Pattern is a flowy tunic with frills and fitted wrist cuffs.

 

Pattern Sizing:

92-128cm

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

Yes and no. It has the same shape but I instead of soft velour, I used a drapey black and gold mystery fabric from Girl Charlee.

Were the instructions easy to follow?

Yes. So much that I don’t remember using them.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?

I loved it all. It was fun and easy to put together. No complaints here.

 

Fabric Used:

Stretchy ribbed sparkly gold and black mystery fabric. (Wow can you say a lot of adjectives haha)

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:

I did not stabilize shoulder seams. It worked out fine with my fabric choice.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?

Yes I would and Do recommend. It’s a very sweet top and with a cool fabric choice, I can be very fashion forward. My daughter absolutely loves it and has worn it over and over. I couldn’t be happier that she is :)

Conclusion:

It was an easy project and my daughter loves it. So that equals a win-win to me. This was my first Ottobre Design project and I love it. Just wish the woman’s mags were as awesome as the kid’s.
 

 

McCall's 6184 Pattern Review

Pattern Description:
From McCall's:
CHILDREN'S, BOYS' AND GIRLS' COSTUMES: Wrap tops A, B have stitched hems and contrast belt; top A has long sleeves; top B is sleeveless; pullover top C has neckband, short sleeves, left shoulder VELCRO^® closure, patch pocket, side slits and stitched hem; hat D has tie ends; pants E have waist casing, back patch pocket and stitched hems.

Pattern Sizing:
Children's 2-5 I used a 4 view B for a ninja costume.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it
Yes it did. It was a little on the big side but it still worked.
Were the instructions easy to follow?
Yes they were.
What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?
It came together well. The only dislike was the banding around the neck and opening. It called to slip stitch the whole thing. Yea right haha. I reduced the seam allowance and turned it in and top stitched it closed.
Fabric Used:
Refashioned large men's knit t shirts.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:
No alterations. I just sewed it differently.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?
If I needed another costume that uses it, then yes. I would recommend it

Conclusion:
Overall the pattern was very easy to use and my son absolutely adored it. It achieved the look we where going for and he couldn't wait to be a ninja.