Today I am reviewing the book The Savvy Seamtress written by the very talented designer, pattern maker and teacher Nicole Mallalieu. My review is part of a blog and instagram tour run by C&T Publishing which runs from 23rd of April until the 3rd of May. Continue reading →
They have chosen a classic plaid fabric – Skylines. Composition is 63% cotton, 16% linen, 20% viscose and 1% elastane. It’s a great fabric, with enough body to be perfect for dresses, pants or anything really!
Finally I got around to making up one of Gertie’s fabulous vintage patterns from her Gertie’s Ultimate Dress Book. It wasn’t until Gertie came out to Australia and had a soiree in Melbourne that I got my act together to make one. You know how it is, too many ideas not enough time! I thought if I’m going to meet Gertie I have to at least wear one of her dresses.
I’m so happy to be able to finally show off my Spring Racing dress I made for Lincraft as part of a competition they are running over the Melbourne Cup Carnival this year. This is a public vote competition and I’d love it if you could support me by giving it a like here. Voting runs from 4th – 10th November.
Now it’s time to start sewing our Venus Kimono! In this post, we will sew the shoulder pleats and the french seams. If you’ve never sewn french seams before, don’t fret as they are actually quite easy but you just have to be a little patient as it takes a bit more time than just whipping up a regular seam.
Grainline, Toile, Cutting and transferring markings
It’s time to start cutting your Venus Kimono!
The Venus Kimono is a one size fits all pattern however, if you want to make sure you are happy with the style lines and fit I highly recommend sewing up a toile before cutting out your fashion fabric. A toile is a mock up in a cheap fabric. Try and use a fabric that will be similar to the fabric you will be using for your kimono.
