Another new pattern--shirtwaist- of course!

I have been busy with too many projects and now after a flash flood in July, I am cleaning and rearranging the sewing studio, sifting through piles of fabric and wondering what to do with all of it.  Some will go out to storage, others will be given away, and then I will keep some--probably more than I ought!  It is taking time to do the sorting and rearranging as I want to use the space judiciously.

I am setting up a large cutting table using thrifted cabinets from the Restore in town.  It will end up 4' by 6' with storage areas underneath.  It gives me room to lay out patterns without having to use the living room floor or the dining table and leave it set up ready to cut at the next opportunity.

So, in the meantime I have been perusing some of the independent designers and finding some decently modest clothing styles.  It seems there are quite a few that exaggerate some uniqueness of certain styles and others just add some character to common clothes.  It depends on your tastes and likes.  

Etsy has a wide variety of home sewing patterns.  Then there are online reviewers like Dahlia Sewciety and The Fold Line , Minerva, as well as many others that give a weekly or monthly review of new patterns and pattern makers as well as fabrics.

I do like to find various arrangements of shirtwaist dresses and I came across another one that caught my eye, as the ladies who sewed their dresses looked very nice in them.  I do prefer the below the knees length as it just makes for a more feminine look and it adds a touch of elegance.  This one is from Designer Stitch  in Australia.

It is on sale right now and if you go to the website shop section and find the above picture and look at the bottom of that for examples of dresses made from that pattern, I think you will enjoy how many nice dresses have been made, each looking lovely on the seamstresses who made them.

I would like to make several and since I am going through my fabric stash, I may pick out a couple for seasonal changes.

The other interest I have is trying to find the perfect jacket and that may end up with a variety of styles.  Jackets really depend upon what you are wearing them for, wind, cool temps, extra layer, etc.  The length makes a difference also.  Some jackets may end up too short and others too long.  I try to pick a color will work with my wardrobe.  Fabrics, colors, styles, uses, it takes time to figure out what will work and give you lots of wear for time and money.  Short and boxy in a beige tone for now if I get it done before the cold weather comes.  I also need one for church as I like to be comfortable sitting.  

I hope you have had a wonderful summer and are prepared for Fall.  

May you have a blessed time sewing and wearing your clothing to the glory of God.  In everything you do, do it to bring honor to God and praise to him for his goodness. 

My most favorite and comfortable outfit

 I have been searching for practical, comfortable, and wearable clothing for several occasions as well as around home.  I have always liked the jumper/pinafore style and have made many but have not found quite the "perfect' style for me.  Recently while perusing some of the Indie pattern companies, I came across the Fishbourne pinafore dress that caught my eye.  It is slightly fitted at the waist with a loose gathering at the waist and has front and back pieces that covers most of the upper body area with nice neck and armhole openings.  The instructions are well written out with clear accompanying illustrations.   Plus, a very detailed video to help get a clearer understanding of how to put it together-not a difficult task but worth watching for tips and tricks. This is one that can be made for any season of the year depending on the fabric choice.  See here if you want a discount.

I plan to check out the quilt store soon and find some sale fabric for a summer pinafore.

I have also purchased a few basic bib front pinafores that are basically a skirt with an attached bib with straps.  Example here:

Source:

Mine were made with a longer skirt length. This is a basic, easy to make pattern.  One could just make a favorite skirt and attach a bib with straps or use buckles in front, to get the same look.

If you prefer a more fitted version, this is one that has a nice look to it:

Source  This style would work well in a heavy fabric such as winter weight corduroy or woolens.

Source  This one is for softer fabrics or lightweight materials.  It has a unique back and looks comfortable.

Source.  This one I like for myself as it has a nice rounded neckline with a button front and comfortable waistline.  This is one that would work for most seasons with a variety of fabric types.  It is only $3. on Etsy!

Source

 This one would be very comfortable with no waist.  

Source

I have made several of this style from other pattern companies.  I am not sure that all these companies that have just drawings are all true to the style they show, but that is the risk you take for a few dollars!

Source:  Another loose top pinafore dress pattern for $2.25 on Etsy.

This is an interesting site as it lists the top 10 pinafore patterns.

Here is a place where you can check out free pinafore patterns or get ideas and do your own search.

These are just a few and perhaps you have found great sources for your own style if you like these ideas. The big major catalogs have had jumper/pinafore patterns available in many styles.  I don't know what they have now as I haven't been shopping in catalogs for a while (since Joanns folded.)

Maybe you have a favorite one you'd like to share?

At any rate, we need to be exemplars of our faith in our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ in all we do, say, and act with a loving mindful approach of honor to him.

May you be blessed in your sewing for his glory.

Just a quick note about Sewing Pattern Emporium 30% sale

 Here is a shop I just found with lots of ideas for modest sewing patterns.  Their sale ends in 5 hours approximately.  Check out their site:  Come back!  This is one pattern that caught my eye and I like the one they feature with 3 tiers.  Check through their selection of all patterns to see if any might work for you.  They have many options in their patterns which makes it nice for use year-round.

As always, do everything to honor God and give him the glory.