Winter is lasting extra long this year. I was going to put off this project until autumn, but then I remembered I may want some warm baselayer joggers for fishing and camping this summer in the Uintas. So, a few months ago, I tested the Brassie Joggers with Browzwear. The fit was really close to... Continue Reading →
Hiking Daypack Version 1
My big project right now is sewing daypacks for myself and, eventually, others. This was my first version using cheaper fabrics and notions. My eventual final pack will have all the bells and whistles. Pattern I used this pattern for the main pack, which is identical to the Zipworks 30L pack. The straps are from... Continue Reading →
Mirri Jumpsuit from Papercut Patterns
I have a closet full of joggers, comfortable relaxed-fit jeans, summer and winter hiking pants, and workout leggings. I don't have a skirt, dress, or even nice slacks. I love WFH, but it really changes what is in your closet. For tops, I have really nice knitted sweaters, but only drawers full of Union St... Continue Reading →
Shop Pant from Open Studio Patterns
After trying pant patterns from several new companies (e.g., Open Studio Patterns, The Modern Sewing Co.), I've learned how important it is to be a better consumer. Yes, I am comfortable sewing pants and often ignore the nitty gritty details in the instructions because I have my preferred methods. However, suppose I speak only positively... Continue Reading →
A Cautionary Tale: Shop Pant from Open Studio Patterns
I wanted to briefly summarize the issues I've had with the Shop Pant from Open Studio Patterns. I sent an email to Open Studio about the final garment measurement issues, and they kindly accepted my feedback and are going to update the pattern: "Thank you for being so thorough with your PDF. We dove into... Continue Reading →
Reusing a Screen-printed Design from a Sweatshirt
We received adorable sweatshirts as a Christmas present, but the sweatshirts didn't fit great. Ryan looked like he was wearing an oversized halter top with ¾-length arms, and I looked like I was wearing a too-small dress. Obviously, I needed to save the design and put it on something we could wear! Here's what I... Continue Reading →
MYOG: Waterproof Breathable Jacket
Making waterproof jackets has been a 2+ year project, and I'm so happy to have it done. I learned a lot and am excited to tackle more outdoor gear. Download Pattern I’ve made our patterns available for download. DOWNLOAD FROM GUMROAD Click the colorful button above, and a new tab should open with the Gumroad... Continue Reading →
MYOG: How to Sew a Lapped Zippered Side Pocket
I was stumped on how to design a side pocket for our rain jackets, but eventually, I got it figured out. Inspiration A common method is to inset the zipper, leave it exposed and add a shield at the top to prevent water from getting in. The zipper shield is a great idea for zippers... Continue Reading →
Champagne Cardigan by PetiteKnit
My real opinion about this cardigan. My biggest fear is making a cardigan that fits poorly. I often see cardigans that won't stay put on the shoulders, the top button is straining under the tension of holding the cardigan together, or it is constantly falling backward and choking me. That's why I haven't knitted too... Continue Reading →
Sophie Hines Median Knickers
Of course, I can provide an in-depth analysis of sewing and fitting underwear! I finally tried out Sophie Hines's Median knicker pattern and was not disappointed. Analyzing Style I don't have a center grainline to study, but I thought it would be interesting to look at some of the features of the Median knickers. The... Continue Reading →
Basic Trousers with Front Dart
I have used a self-drafted trousers pattern for Ryan for some time because I've never found a pattern that does him justice. Ryan is 6 feet 5 inches. His inseam is 37 inches. He currently has a 32-inch natural waist and 42-inch hips. He's like a piece of paper, broad from the front and back... Continue Reading →
Review of a Slash and Overlap Method to Alter Patterns for Knock Knees
One of the cool features of VStitcher is being able to move the avatar into different positions. One of the positions I thought would be helpful to understand fit is a subtle knock-knees stance.