#SEWTALLANDCREATIVE2017 DESIGN CHALLENGE - The Planning Stage

#SEWTALLANDCREATIVE2017 DESIGN CHALLENGE - The Planning Stage

A few weeks ago I shared my inspiration for the summer dress that I’ll be making for the #SEWTALLANDCREATIVE2017 Design Challenge. Today, I’ll be sharing the next stage in the process, selecting fabrics and a pattern. Usually when I’m making something I get to select everything from scratch and do whatever I like but this wouldn’t be a challenge if there weren’t parameters. I’m required to use two different fashion fabrics from the four that was given by Marge Clothing to make a dress for spring/summer. Combining two fabrics is not an easy task, especially when your selection of fabrics is limited. But that’s what makes it a challenge!

#SEWTALLANDCREATIVE2017 Design Challenge

#SEWTALLANDCREATIVE2017 Design Challenge

A few weeks ago, I was contacted by Sallee from the Tall Guides and asked if I’d like to participate in a sewing and design challenge for tall women. The Tall Guides is a website that works to empower and support tall women to "not only stand tall but to stand out, love their difference and live a life they love.” As a tall woman (5’11”), I love the concept.

As you may know, a few months ago I started the #sewingtall hashtag to connect tall women in the sewing community. I want this blog to be a source of inspiration for all people to start sewing clothes that the love and that fit. But naturally, I have more insight into what it’s like to shop and sew as a tall woman. (You can read more about that in my #sewingtall intro post.) Sewing your own clothes is a great option for tall women and I’d love for more women to learn how to sew and be empowered by it. So, in the spirit of spreading the love of sewing, I agreed to participate in this challenge.

Sewing Tall – Connecting the Sewing Community

Sewing Tall – Connecting the Sewing Community

As sewists, we are more aware of the size, length and shape of our body parts than most people. We've measured our inseams, our back lengths and even from boob to boob. We've sewn things up and evaluated where we need a little extra length or a little less ease. We’ve altered our patterns to get the perfect fit. And probably most of those have thought that we had to alter patterns because our bodies weren't “average” or “normal".

But here's the thing. No one is average. No one. Don't believe me? Then you need to listen to this episode of 99% Invisible. Actually everyone needs to go listen to it. (And subscribe because it’s excellent!) Even as an experienced sewist, it will change how you think about size charts and sizing.